Tag: Bible

A Good Name

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

I was reflecting on this scripture and the thought of its simplicity and  as it relates to how we are creating our lives and legacies, as leaders. 

Scripture tell us:

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, And loving favour rather than silver and gold.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

It is true that in the process of leading, building and acquiring, we can and often make mistakes as leaders. 

What matters most is that we ensure that the impact that we are having is a godly impact!

“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

In our society, there is a belief that rebranding is sufficient to overcome character flaws or reputational mistakes; however, we cannot forget  the impact that we have on the hearts and minds of others with whom we have an emotional connection. 

We have the responsibility to live our lives in such a way that is pleasing to Christ and is attractive to those seeking a better way. 

“When a man’s ways please the LORD, He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

As we press forward, here are some closing scriptures we can meditate on in this season:

“The end and culmination of all things is near. 

Therefore, be sound-minded and self-controlled for the purpose of prayer [staying balanced and focused on the things of God so that your communication will be clear, reasonable, specific and pleasing to Him.] 

Above all, have fervent and unfailing love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins [it overlooks unkindness and unselfishly seeks the best for others]. [Prov 10:12]”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable and pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my [firm, immovable] rock and my Redeemer.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭19‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let us be wise as serpents and harmless as doves so that we obtain a good name and ultimately hear:

“…Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little, I will put you in charge of many things; share in the joy of your master.’”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Please share!

“A good name [earned by honorable behavior, godly wisdom, moral courage, and personal integrity] is more desirable than great riches; 

And favor is better than silver and gold. The rich and poor have a common bond; The Lord is the Maker of them all. [Job 31:15; Prov 14:31]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/pro.22.1-2.AMP

By Your [patient] Endurance

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

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures with a heavy and grieving heart and was seeking for answers because it feels like we’re living in a time where chaos is the norm.  

But, I am grateful that the Word of god reassures us that these times are expected and we shall be protected if we endure and faint not.  

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We are living in a time where there are wars on top of wars: territory wars, cultural wars, values wars, truth vs lies wars, inter/ intra family wars and competitive market wars. 

But Christ, the solution, has come that we may have righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. 

In Him, we shall prevail and destruction is not our portion, if we heed his voice:

“He will cover you and completely protect you with His pinions, And under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and a wall. 

You will not be afraid of the terror of night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, 

Nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, Nor of the destruction (sudden death) that lays waste at noon. 

A thousand may fall at your side And ten thousand at your right hand, But danger will not come near you. 

You will only [be a spectator as you] look on with your eyes And witness the [divine] repayment of the wicked [as you watch safely from the shelter of the Most High].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭4‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Love – not hate, will always prevail even in what seems like our darkest hour. 

“The Lord your God is supreme over all gods and over all powers. He is great and mighty, and he is to be obeyed. He does not show partiality, and he does not accept bribes. 

Have reverence for the Lord your God and worship only him. Be faithful to him and make your promises in his name alone. 

Praise him—he is your God, and you have seen with your own eyes the great and astounding things that he has done for you.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭10‬:‭17‬, ‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭GNT‬‬

Even in the midst of the turmoil, chaos, confusion and anguish, I hear the spirit saying that, we leaders, should think on these things:

“Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. 

The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Leaders, let us follow this scriptural action plan for success in this season:

“So, as God’s own chosen people, who are holy [set apart, sanctified for His purpose] and well-beloved [by God Himself], put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience [which has the power to endure whatever injustice or unpleasantness comes, with good temper];

bearing graciously with one another, and willingly forgiving each other if one has a cause for complaint against another; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so should you forgive. 

Beyond all these things put on and wrap yourselves in [unselfish] love, which is the perfect bond of unity [for everything is bound together in agreement when each one seeks the best for others]. 

Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise]. 

To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always]. 

Let the [spoken] word of Christ have its home within you [dwelling in your heart and mind—permeating every aspect of your being] as you teach [spiritual things] and admonish and train one another with all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 

Whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus [and in dependence on Him], giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬-‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Share with a friend!

“Then Jesus told them, “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. [2 Chr 15:6; Is 19:2] 

There will be violent earthquakes, and in various places famines and [deadly and devastating] pestilences (plagues, epidemics); and there will be terrible sights and great signs from heaven. “

But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, turning you over to the synagogues and prisons, and bringing you before kings and governors for My name’s sake. [Matt 10:19-22; Mark 13:11-13] 

This will be a time and an opportunity for you to testify [about Me]. 

So make up your minds not to prepare beforehand to defend yourselves; 

for I will give you [skillful] words and wisdom which none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute. 

But you will be betrayed and handed over even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death, 

and you will be continually hated by everyone because of [your association with] My name. 

But not a hair of your head will perish. [1 Sam 14:45] 

By your [patient] endurance [empowered by the Holy Spirit] you will gain your souls.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭21‬:‭10‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.21.19.AMP

The Vision Regarding

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

I was reflecting on these powerful scriptures and the thought that often, we leaders, have multiple visions we are pursuing. 

Though we are experiencing breakthroughs in this season because of our past decisions to mix our faith with past visions, our success is guaranteed in the midst of trouble and famines only when we keep god first. 

“In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“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.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

It is important that we maintain visions for each important area of our lives: our faith, our health, our marriages, our family, our finances, and our community.

With objectives of Achievement, Restoration or the Pursuit of God; each vision has their own distinct paths, timelines, and urgencies but the common success habit is maintaining the daily sacrifice of prayer and worship unto the Lord.

We see the consequential evidence in scripture of the children of Israel’s struggle in this area. Let us learn from their mistakes. 

“Because of the transgression [of God’s people—their irreverence and ungodliness] the host will be given over to the wicked horn, along with the regular sacrifice; and righteousness and truth will be flung to the ground, and the horn will do as it pleases [by divine permission] and prosper.”

‭‭Daniel‬ ‭8‬:‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Finally, vision creation can follow two  approaches: a defined end model or a more iterative process of flow. Either approach can be successful and both demand use of short term “milestones of success”. 

Each approach also has similar process steps: 

  • Dream bigger. 
  • Decide what you want. 
  • Hear from God. 
  • Develop a faith action plan. 
  • Confess the Word in faith. 
  • Focus on daily execution. 

Now is our time to reflect and decide what impactful visions we have for this next season and how we can bring greater honor to the kingdom of God. 

Scripture validates that we are made for signs and wonders and nothing is to hard for God:

“Listen carefully, I and the children whom the Lord has given me are for signs and wonders [that will occur] in Israel from the Lord of hosts, who dwells on Mount Zion.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭8‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Is anything too hard for the Lord? …” Genesis‬ ‭18‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When we do this, we know that the “the sanctuary will be cleansed and properly restored.””

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Share with a friend!

“Out of one of them (Antiochus IV Epiphanes) came forth a rather small horn [but one of irreverent presumption and profane pride] which grew exceedingly powerful toward the south, toward the east, and toward the Beautiful Land (Israel). [Dan 8:23] 

And [in my vision] this horn grew up to the host of heaven, and caused some of the host and some of the stars to fall to the earth, and it trampled on them. 

Indeed, it magnified itself to be equal with the Commander of the host [of heaven]; and it took away from Him the daily sacrifice (burnt offering), and the place of His sanctuary was thrown down (profaned). 

Because of the transgression [of God’s people—their irreverence and ungodliness] the host will be given over to the wicked horn, along with the regular sacrifice; and righteousness and truth will be flung to the ground, and the horn will do as it pleases [by divine permission] and prosper. 

Then I heard a holy one (angel) speaking, and another holy one said to the one who was speaking, “How much time will be required to complete the vision regarding the regular sacrifice, the transgression that brings horror, and the trampling underfoot of both the sanctuary and the host [of the people]?” [Luke 21:24] 

He said to me, “For 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the sanctuary will be cleansed and properly restored.””

‭‭Daniel‬ ‭8‬:‭9‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/dan.8.13.AMP

Tomorrow Will Take Care of Itself

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and over this past week. 

As leaders,  there is a growing amount of pressure and confusion in this season that, if we are not careful, can cause us to live in a state of worry and have No peace. 

This is not of God and I am so grateful that we have the greatest helper available to show us the way forward- that is the Holy Spirit. 

We are also blessed to possess the best instruction manual (the Bible) that will guide us into all truth and give us knowledge and wisdom – if we will just seek for the answers there. 

Peace and provision:

As we renew our minds with an expectant heart, our faith will be strengthened and divine strategies will be revealed to us. 

We have a responsibility and duty to simply hold fast to our faith, as little children – getting excited for the opportunity to be near Him, to share our inner most thoughts with Him, and to allow His warm embrace to comfort and strengthen our inner man. 

Peace, Be still!

Being at peace in His presence, knowing that all is well and He is doing wondrous works on our behalf, is exciting. 

Selah

In closing, let’s fill our hearts with praise to the point where worry is uncomfortable and will flee!

We already know how this story will end- We triumph and We Win!

We will medicate/ meditate on these scriptures as our prescription against worry:

“Tell the Lord how thankful you are, because he is kind and always merciful.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭118‬:‭1‬ ‭CEV‬‬

“I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart and tell about the wonders you have worked. God Most High, I will rejoice; I will celebrate and sing because of you.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭9‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭CEV‬‬

“But I will sing about your strength, my God, and I will celebrate because of your love. You are my fortress, my place of protection in times of trouble. I will sing your praises! You are my mighty fortress, and you love me.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭59‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭CEV‬‬

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“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. 

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Our way of escape from worry in this season is through the power of praise and prayer!

Thank you Lord and Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 

Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? 

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: and yet I say unto you, 

That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, 

Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 

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

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭25‬-‭34‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.6.31.KJV

A Time Appointed

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

This morning, I was reflecting on the scriptures and the thought that as leaders we have to recognize when there is a major shift in our lives and the new season that we are now in. This change could be from an organizational/ strategic change at work or a significant event within our family or with our health. In short a “big event” and we have the eyes to see the shift:

“But blessed [spiritually aware, and favored by God] are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. [Luke 10:23, 24] 

I assure you and most solemnly say to you, many prophets and righteous men [who were honorable and in right standing with God] longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭13‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

During moment like these , we must spend time before the Lord for direction, discernment, wisdom, knowledge  and grace to meet the moment.

We can expect to receive the right strategy and necessary scriptures to meditate on for reassurance as we worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness. 

“Open my eyes, that I may see Wondrous things from Your law. I am a stranger in the earth; Do not hide Your commandments from me. My soul breaks with longing For Your judgments at all times.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Selah

Scripture reminds us that we must stand strong, trust the Word and have faith that all things are working together for our good for we are the called by Christ. 

“Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Amen

Recognizing the changing season is necessary for our growth and elevation; however, it does not guarantee we will be comfortable.  We will need new spiritual and natural skills for success as our territories are being enlarged. We will need to spend more time in prayer for temperance and direction. We must also walk with confidence and boldness that we are uniquely prepared for this calling and that the Lord is able and will deliver us through this transition!

“Run away from youthful lusts—pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those [believers] who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But have nothing to do with foolish and ignorant speculations [useless disputes over unedifying, stupid controversies], since you know that they produce strife and give birth to quarrels. The servant of the Lord must not participate in quarrels, but must be kind to everyone [even-tempered, preserving peace, and he must be], skilled in teaching, patient and tolerant when wronged.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we succeed, we know and will proclaim: to God be the glory! Amen

My final thoughts and prayers are:

Thank you, Lord for showing us that we are your tools and your vessels to accomplish your mission. We say yes and amen to the calling. We trust you and your process!

“The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever leans on, trusts in, and puts his confidence in the Lord is safe and set on high.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

By faith, we surrender our wills, our ways, our minds, our mouths and our hearts to you so that you would be magnified. 

“God, glorify your name! Yes, your name alone be glorified, not ours. For you are the one who loves us passionately, and you are faithful and true.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭115‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven— 

A time to be born and a time to die; 

A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. [Heb 9:27] 

A time to kill and a time to heal; 

A time to tear down and a time to build up. 

A time to weep and a time to laugh; 

A time to mourn and a time to dance. 

A time to throw away stones and a time to gather stones; 

A time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing. 

A time to search and a time to give up as lost; 

A time to keep and a time to throw away. 

A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; 

A time to keep silent and a time to speak. [Amos 5:13] 

A time to love and a time to hate; 

A time for war and a time for peace. [Luke 14:26] 

What profit is there for the worker from that in which he labors? I have seen the task which God has given to the sons of men with which to occupy themselves.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ecc.3.1-9.AMP

Be It Unto Me

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

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures and was visualizing the day when we, as leaders, truly treasure the Word of God above all else!

“I treasure your word above all else; it keeps me from sinning against you.”  Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭11‬ ‭CEV‬‬

Let us imagine that great day and place:

  • Where we become and embody the Word of God.
  • Where there is an inexhaustible amount of love for ourselves and our fellow man.
  • Where there is no sickness or pain in our bodies nor those of our community.
  • Where our spirits are full because of our communing with the Holy Spirit.
  • Where miracles and signs are manifested in our lives daily.
  • Where lack and poverty yields to  overflow and abundance allowing us to meet the needs of all.
  • Where our lives are a witness that draws men to Christ so that He gets all the glory!

Selah

Scriptures tells us we are blessed when we delight in and meditate on the word day and night. 

“But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night. [Rom. 13:8-10; Gal. 3:1-29; II Tim. 3:16.]”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

When we do this, we are empowered to achieve heavenly   results:

“Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭6‬ ‭CEV‬‬

“Young people can live a clean life by obeying your word.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭9‬ ‭CEV‬‬

“I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭7‬ ‭CEV‬‬

Amen

In closing, we simply need to believe and be open to change because God is more than able to change our hearts and minds. 

By having the faith like Mary as it relates to the promises of God, we can earnestly say: “Be it unto me”!

“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word…”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭38‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Our Lord, you bless everyone who lives right and obeys your Law. 

You bless all those who follow your commands from deep in their hearts and who never do wrong or turn from you. 

You have ordered us always to obey your teachings; I don’t ever want to stray from your laws. 

Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing. 

I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws. I will obey all of them! Don’t turn your back on me. 

Young people can live a clean life by obeying your word. I worship you with all my heart. 

Don’t let me walk away from your commands. 

I treasure your word above all else; it keeps me from sinning against you. I praise you, Lord! Teach me your laws.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭1‬-‭12‬ ‭CEV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/392/psa.119.1-12.CEV

Do Not Grieve

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, have a constant pressure to perform. 

We are measured by outward results (the harvest) of our faith walk but no one knows or understands the level of our toil “the faith work” that was required to achieve the results. 

Similar to the people listening to Ezra teach the law (the word), we often find ourselves weeping when our hearts are exposed to the Son:

“Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.”  ‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭8‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Selah

A leaders “Faith work” mandates our learning how to starve our doubts, fears and inadequacies – replacing them with prayers, meditation and being vulnerable before the Lord. 

All of this activity is necessary for our development and growth in Christ: 

“Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 

They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. 

Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬-‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

Next, our path to greatness begins when we learn to surrender all to Christ:

“ …My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.””

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭5b- 6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Lastly, it is my sincere prayer that we do not grieve because of the growth process. 

We must remember that this day is holy to the Lord our God. In Jesus name. Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law. 

Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 

The Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, for this is a holy day. Do not grieve.” 

Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.”

‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭8‬:‭9‬-‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/111/neh.8.12.NIV

For God is With Us (Immanuel)

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

I was reading this morning and reflecting on the simple but powerful thought – “for God is with us”. This means we are never alone. 

So simple! 

So powerful! 

So marvelous! 

So reassuring!

As leaders, we prepare for and train to lead our teams and families through the battles of life. 

Our spirits can be encouraged when we read in the scriptures that God always causes us to triumph:

“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

The Bible also tells us that the steps of a good man are  ordered by the Lord and the path is blessed:

“The steps of a [good and righteous] man are directed and established by the Lord, And He delights in his way [and blesses his path]. 

When he falls, he will not be hurled down, Because the Lord is the One who holds his hand and sustains him.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Though afflictions and adversity will come, God is still with us:

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭19‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble in dread before them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not fail you or abandon you.””

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

In closing, it is my prayer that we will continue to rest in the confidence that Immanuel is always with us:

“For our fathers did not possess the land [of Canaan] by their own sword, Nor did their own arm save them, But Your right hand and Your arm and the light of Your presence, Because You favored and delighted in them.”  Psalms‬ ‭44‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“….for He has said, “I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support, nor will I in any degree leave you helpless], nor will I forsake or let you down or relax My hold on you [assuredly not]!” [Josh 1:5]”. Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬B AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord! You are so worthy to be praised. 

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“”Be broken [in pieces], O peoples, and be shattered! Listen, all you [our enemies from the] far countries. 

Prepare yourselves [for war], and be shattered; Prepare yourselves [for war], and be shattered. 

“Take counsel together [against Judah], but it will come to nothing; Speak the word, but it will not stand, 

For God is with us (Immanuel).””

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭8‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.8.9-10.AMP

Spiritual Ignorance

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that, as leaders, being in a place of spiritual ignorance can be extremely costly. 

The Bible says it this way:

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” Hosea‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Also it is not good for a person to be without knowledge, And he who hurries with his feet [acting impulsively and proceeding without caution or analyzing the consequences] sins (misses the mark).” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭19‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

The solution is for us to choose to study and apply Gods word in our daily lives:

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And by developing simple success behaviors, we make our way prosperous:  

“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 ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

As we continue on this journey, our partial understanding becomes clearer as Christ reveals the mysteries unto us.

“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬-‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In closing, it is my prayer and decree that we are and remain diligent students of His Word!

“My son, attend to my words; Incline thine ear unto my sayings. 

Let them not depart from thine eyes; Keep them in the midst of thine heart. 

For they are life unto those that find them, And health to all their flesh. 

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭4‬:‭20‬-‭23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Let us fight the good fight of faith against spiritual ignorance. 

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“As He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it [and the spiritual ignorance of its people], 

saying, “If [only] you had known on this day [of salvation], even you, the things which make for peace [and on which peace depends]! But now they have been hidden from your eyes. 

For a time [of siege] is coming when your enemies will put up a barricade [with pointed stakes] against you, and surround you [with armies] and hem you in on every side, [Is 29:3; Jer 6:6; Ezek 4:2] 

and they will level you to the ground, you [Jerusalem] and your children within you. They will not leave in you one stone on another, all because you did not [come progressively to] recognize [from observation and personal experience] the time of your visitation [when God was gracious toward you and offered you salvation].””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭19‬:‭41‬-‭44‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.19.41-44.AMP

What Do You Want Me To Do For You?

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures and the story of blind Bartimaeus and how he was sensitive enough to realize that his only hope of healing was through an encounter with Jesus.

As leaders, sometimes we may feel that we are blinded by a situation or a decision. We must also have the mindset that our only way forward is to aggressively pursue Christ, His wisdom and His anointing.

Amen

We are living in a season where trouble is on every hand and many have lost their way.

More than ever, we need to pray for biblical clarity as Christ has already overcome the world and has divine solutions for everything problem we face.

Scripture reminds us:

“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 [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]”

John 16:33 AMP

Success in this season will require a heightened level of intensity and focus on what the Lord is saying.

By having the same level of urgency, intensity, purpose and resolve as Bartimaeus, we can overcome whatever is required to achieve the will and purposes of God.

We may need to replace external inputs (media/ opinions) into our spirits with focused meditation on Gods word to hear what the Lord is saying. Being still helps us hear the what, how, and when to take action.

This is our portion and a result of being a son/ daughter of the true and living god.

He still is our shepherd according the Psalms 23:1 and we shall not want!

The righteous have never been forsaken nor their seed begging bread according to Psalms 37:25.

Jesus is still saying, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

Selah

In closing:

“…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

“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

“But continually encourage one another every day, as long as it is called “Today” [and there is an opportunity], so that none of you will be hardened [into settled rebellion] by the deceitfulness of sin [its cleverness, delusive glamour, and sophistication].” Hebrews 3:13 AMP

Be assured that the hurting world is watching and will inquire: What is it that gives you your confidence, your strength, your patience, your understanding, your direction and your clarity?

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“As He was approaching Jericho [on His way to Jerusalem], it happened that a blind man was sitting beside the road begging. [Matt 20:29-34; Mark 10:46-52] Now when he heard a crowd going by, he began to ask what this was [about]. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.”

So he shouted out, saying, “Jesus, Son of David (Messiah), have mercy on me!”

Those who were leading the way were sternly telling him to keep quiet; but he screamed all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Then Jesus stopped and ordered that the blind man be led to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

He said, “Lord, let me regain my sight!”

Jesus said to him, “Regain your sight; your [personal trust and confident] faith [in Me] has made you well.”

Immediately he regained his sight and began following Jesus, glorifying and praising and honoring God. And all the people, when they saw it, praised God.”

Luke 18:35-43 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.18.35-43.AMP