Tag: character

But I Have Prayed [especially] For You

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and was amazed at how Jesus has so much love for and was pouring so much of himself out to his disciples.

Jesus knew that one disciple would betray him while others were in a debate about which can be greatest in His kingdom.

Despite all of this, Jesus still showed love in addressing Peter – one of His strongest and advent supporter. 

That is ultimate leadership in action. 

Jesus knew the heart of Peter and that Peter would deny knowing Him three times in the coming days. 

Yet in the Passion translation, Jesus says:

“Peter, my dear friend, listen to what I’m about to tell you. Satan has obtained permission to come and sift you all like wheat and test your faith. 

But I have prayed for you, Peter, that you would stay faithful to me no matter what comes.”

Peter’s faith was going to be tested similar to that of Job and so will ours. 

We see in the example of Job where his faith was tested to see if it was genuine and could be sustained when adversity comes. 

Scripture tells us:

“…Satan answered the Lord, “Does Job fear God for nothing? 

Have You not put a hedge [of protection] around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? 

You have blessed the work of his hands [and conferred prosperity and happiness upon him], and his possessions have increased in the land. 

But put forth Your hand now and touch (destroy) all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face.” 

Then the Lord said to Satan, “Behold, all that Job has is in your power, only do not put your hand on the man himself.” So Satan departed from the presence of the Lord.”

‭‭Job‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬-‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Scripture also gives us a glimpse how God truly felt about Job:

“…For there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, one who fears God [with reverence] and abstains from and turns away from evil [because he honors God].””

‭‭Job‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we are being tested, we are reminded of the steps to take to prevail:

“Be sober [well balanced and self-disciplined], be alert and cautious at all times. That enemy of yours, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion [fiercely hungry], seeking someone to devour.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“But resist him, be firm in your faith [against his attack—rooted, established, immovable], knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being experienced by your brothers and sisters throughout the world. [You do not suffer alone.]”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion and should we fail the faith test, we can repent and turn our hearts back toward God:

Remember this: after you have turned back to me and have been restored, make it your life mission to strengthen the faith of your brothers.” 

“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

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Simon, Simon (Peter), listen! Satan has demanded permission to sift [all of] you like grain; [Job 1:6-12; Amos 9:9] 

but I have prayed [especially] for you [Peter], that your faith [and confidence in Me] may not fail; and you, once you have turned back again [to Me], strengthen and support your brothers [in the faith].” 

And Peter said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You both to prison and to death!” [Matt 26:33-35; Mark 14:29-31; John 13:37, 38] 

Jesus said, “I say to you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will [utterly] deny three times that you know Me.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭31‬-‭34‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.22.31-34.AMP

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

Do It With All Your Might

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning, and the thought that, as leaders, we always have more time demands than time to accomplish tasks. We must be selective with our energy allocation.

Feelings we experience are: a sense of overwhelm, a sense that we’re not good enough for the assignment, or maybe a sense that our current actions are not sufficient.

Deadlines are being missed, we are having issues fitting in the demands of leadership, family, health and or relationships.

It feels impossible to win in all areas.

But I hear the spirit of God saying to us:

“But He said, “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.” [Gen 18:14; Jer 32:17]”

Luke 18:27 AMP

Amen

I am so grateful that we serve a true and living God that understands and helps us:

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

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

Hebrews 4:15-16 AMP

So what do we do?

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol (the nether world, the place of the dead) where you are going.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 AMP

What does that mean?

We must focus our minds, today, on doing the things of the greatest value and which are pleasing to god by faith – which is our best!

Let’s also not worry about tomorrow.

““So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 AMP

Yes, progress may feel circular where we make progress, digress or stagnate, study and pray to increase our faith and know how, then move forward to the next level.

We must be encouraged, keep plowing our ground and planting good seeds – keep fighting the good fight of faith.

In closing, we must remember:

“…under the sun that the race is not to the swift and the battle is not to the strong, and neither is bread to the wise nor riches to those of intelligence and understanding nor favor to men of ability; but time and chance overtake them all. [Ps 33:16-19; Rom 9:16]”. Ecclesiastes 9:11 AMP

Let this mind be in us that we have all sufficiency in all things through Christ Jesus.

As we continue to pursue the mind of Christ and his purposes, we will see his kingdom revealed, what we do shall prosper and Christ will be glorified – by faith in Jesus name. Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol (the nether world, the place of the dead) where you are going.”

Ecclesiastes 9:10 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ecc.9.10.AMP

Indifferent to God

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of how we, as leaders, must guard our hearts and minds from being desensitized.

There are so many wars and cultural battles today that can create and sustain a spirit of unforgiveness.

We can easily get distracted and stop communing with the Holy Spirit – find ourselves drifting and indifferent (lack of interest, concern, or sympathy) toward the things of God.

Scripture describes it as:

“I know your [record of] works and what you are doing; you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of My mouth!”

Revelation 3:15-16 AMPC

But God also gives us an action plan for restoration:

“My son, attend to my words; consent and submit to my sayings. Let them not depart from your sight; keep them in the center of your heart. For they are life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh.

Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.

Put away from you false and dishonest speech, and willful and contrary talk put far from you. Let your eyes look right on [with fixed purpose], and let your gaze be straight before you.

Consider well the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established and ordered aright.

Turn not aside to the right hand or to the left; remove your foot from evil.”

Proverbs 4:20-27 AMPC

God desires that we dwell in him. Scripture says:

“Dwell in Me, and I will dwell in you. [Live in Me, and I will live in you.] Just as no branch can bear fruit of itself without abiding in (being vitally united to) the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you abide in Me.

I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit.

However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing. If a person does not dwell in Me, he is thrown out like a [broken-off] branch, and withers; such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, and they are burned.

If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.

When you bear (produce) much fruit, My Father is honored and glorified, and you show and prove yourselves to be true followers of Mine.” John 15:4-8 AMPC

In closing, Gods illustrates His never ending love in the King Nebuchadnezzar’s story.

“Therefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable to you; break off your sins and show the reality of your repentance by righteousness (right standing with God and moral and spiritual rectitude and rightness in every area and relation) and liberate yourself from your iniquities by showing mercy and loving-kindness to the poor and oppressed, that [if the king will repent] there may possibly be a continuance and lengthening of your peace and tranquility and a healing of your error.” Daniel 4:27 AMPC

Our responsibility is to be faithful to confess our sins when we error:

“If My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves, pray, seek, crave, and require of necessity My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.”

2 Chronicles 7:14 AMPC

Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“And just as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be in the time of [the second coming of] the Son of Man:

the people were eating, they were drinking, they were marrying, they were being given in marriage, [they were indifferent to God] until the day that Noah went into the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.

It was the same as it was in the days of Lot. People were eating, they were drinking, they were buying, they were selling, they were planting, they were building [carrying on business as usual, without regard for their sins];

but on the [very] day that Lot left Sodom it rained fire and brimstone (burning sulfur) from heaven and destroyed them all.”

Luke 17:26-29 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.17.26-29.AMP

Go and Do Likewise

I was reading this scripture this morning and was reflecting on just how easy we, as leaders, can allow ourselves to get so busy that we loose, for a moment or permanently, the ability to be touched by the infirmities of others.

I suspect that each of us have had a moment where we were so focused on our needs, goals and objectives that we missed taking the time to “really see” the needs of someone else.

Our response may be because we perceive the risk of “their ask” may be more than we think we can accommodate or maybe, we just do not feel like being “other centered” in that moment.

As leaders, we are learning that being a follower of Christ is not always convenient and often reveals our hidden heart issues.

We then see in this example, how the Good Samaritan was “moved with pity and sympathy [for him]”.

We are also reminded that: “But by the grace (the unmerited favor and blessing) of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not [found to be] for nothing (fruitless and without effect). In fact, I worked harder than all of them [the apostles], though it was not really I, but the grace (the unmerited favor and blessing) of God which was with me.” 1 Corinthians 15:10 AMPC

It is easy to become overwhelmed, struggle to find balance, and to not live up to the standard set by the Word of God: “Contribute to the needs of God’s people [sharing in the necessities of the saints]; pursue the practice of hospitality.” Romans 12:13 AMPC

We must strive daily to take on and have the mind of Christ: “For who has known or understood the mind (the counsels and purposes) of the Lord so as to guide and instruct Him and give Him knowledge? But we have the mind of Christ (the Messiah) and do hold the thoughts (feelings and purposes) of His heart. [Isa. 40:13.]” 1 Corinthians 2:16 AMPC

“All things are legitimate [permissible–and we are free to do anything we please], but not all things are helpful (expedient, profitable, and wholesome). All things are legitimate, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life]. Let no one then seek his own good and advantage and profit, but [rather] each one of the other [let him seek the welfare of his neighbor].” 1 Corinthians 10:23-24 AMPC

We are encouraged and constantly being prepared to touch life at many touch points, being less structured so that we can “connect” with others. The Bible reminds us: “Therefore there is now no condemnation [no guilty verdict, no punishment] for those who are in Christ Jesus [who believe in Him as personal Lord and Savior]. For the law of the Spirit of life [which is] in Christ Jesus [the law of our new being] has set you free from the law of sin and of death.” Romans 8:1-2 AMP

We are God’s workmanship, His ambassadors and are the salt of the earth. We have been given dominion and authority over the whole earth. Because of Christ, we have a river of living water to be a blessing to mankind showing pity and mercy. In Jesus Name, Amen

Like the Good Samaritan, let us Go and do likewise!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Jesus, taking him up, replied, A certain man was going from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him of his clothes and belongings and beat him and went their way, [unconcernedly] leaving him half dead, as it happened.

Now by coincidence a certain priest was going down along that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

A Levite likewise came down to the place and saw him, and passed by on the other side [of the road].

But a certain Samaritan, as he traveled along, came down to where he was; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity and sympathy [for him], And went to him and dressed his wounds, pouring on [them] oil and wine.

Then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii [two day’s wages] and gave [them] to the innkeeper, saying, Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I [myself] will repay you when I return.

Which of these three do you think proved himself a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers? He answered, The one who showed pity and mercy to him. And Jesus said to him, Go and do likewise.” Luke 10:30-37 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/luk.10.30-37.AMPC

Great Peace Have They Which Love Thy Law

I was reflecting on this passage this morning and was really intrigued by the idea of just how wonderful it is to have peace but equally of growing spiritually until we just simply love the law. The result of that growth is that nothing will offend us.

Rest assured that achieving this level of spiritual growth does not come by accident or by circumstances but by our taking specific actions.

We, as leaders, can be encouraged. By deciding to execute certain strategies, we will have greater and greater levels of peace and grow in our ability to lead ourselves and others to higher levels. The scripture reminds us that “As iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens [and influences] another [through discussion].” Proverbs 27:17 AMP

Through our struggle to achieve mental peace in “life”, our deliverance and breakthrough comes when we make adjustments in our day (each 24 hours) learning how to pay attention to God – even in the midst of our activities.

This may feel overwhelming initially, but we have to fight to achieve this level of communion with the Holy Spirit. It is beneficial and worth the effort. Here are some strategies to consider:

Strategy #1: Keep Seeking the things that are above

“Therefore if we have been raised with Christ [to a new life, sharing in His resurrection from the dead], keep seeking the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set our mind and keep focused habitually on the things above [the heavenly things], not on things that are on the earth [which have only temporal value]. For we died [to this world], and our [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3 AMP

Strategy #2: Taking time to Abide in Christ

“Remain in Me, and I [will remain] in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit, producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me. I am the Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.” John 15:4-5 AMP

Strategy #3: Purposeful and Frequent Praise

“Seven times a day I praise You, Because of Your righteous ordinances.”

Psalms 119:164 AMP

For those that may not fully appreciate the value in making these adjustments, the Word offers some reassurances that this investment of time and energy is not lost effort. Here are a couple benefits:

Benefit #1: Receipt of Godly Peace

“Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]” John 14:27 AMP

Benefit #2: Competitive Advantage

“In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king consulted them, he found them ten times better than all the [learned] magicians and enchanters (Magi) in his whole realm.” Daniel 1:20 AMP

Benefit #3: Greater Understanding from God

“I understand more than the aged [who have not observed Your precepts], Because I have observed and kept Your precepts.” Psalms 119:100 AMP

In closing, what is so reassuring in this scripture is that it declares that Gods Word is true! Not only is it true today, it has always been true from the beginning.

Let’s choose today to stand together on the Word and abide in Christ until we reach the point that we just Love the law and he gets all the glory! Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Thy word is true from the beginning: And every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

Princes have persecuted me without a cause: But my heart standeth in awe of thy word.

I rejoice at thy word, As one that findeth great spoil.

I hate and abhor lying: But thy law do I love.

Seven times a day do I praise thee Because of thy righteous judgments.

Great peace have they which love thy law: And nothing shall offend them.”

Psalm 119:160-165 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.119.160-165.KJV

Blessed is That Man

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and one word got a hold of me that I could not let go. The passage begins with “Blessed is that man…”. And my heart was just filled with emotions.

Something was different about this scripture in that it demanded and still demands a higher level of leadership commitment.

There are many references in the Word concerning “blessed is the man”. Usually following this phrase is a promise of the blessings and benefits that are associated with our action. If we do this then, we receive the promise.

But there is something different about those who strive for and achieve the level of “that man”.

When we see it, we ask:

⁃ Is the fat of the lamb reserved for “that” man?

⁃ Is the 100 fold return reserved for “that” man?

⁃ Is it possible that the greater and mighty works are reserved for “that” man?

⁃ Is ”that” the difference from being in the crowd of the many which are called vs being a part of the few that are chosen?

⁃ Is “that” the difference between being great and exceedingly great?

⁃ Is “that” the difference from being a follower vs a giant in Christ like Paul, Moses, Elijah, and David?

What then differentiates “the” man and qualifies him to be “that” man?

So what is it that moves us forward – closer to and higher in Christ?

What is clear is “that” is a special place, a higher level in Christ and is available to all.

The Bible says that we can have the desires of our hearts if we delight ourselves in him. Psalms 37:4

The Bible also says that if we ask, he will give us wisdom. James 1:5

The Bible says that he will reveal into us the mysteries. Mathew 13:11

If we sincerely ask, Jesus will reveal unto us how do we graduate to be called “that man”?

But we must first have the desire for the meat of the word and crave the anointing.

Let us resolve today, as leaders, to press in and grow to become “that man (or woman)” in Christ.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, And respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.”

Psalm 40:4 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.40.4.KJV

He Came Near to Damascus

I was reflecting this morning on this passage and my mind kept thinking that each of us, as leaders, travel our own road to Damascus. It is a continuous journey.

Granted most of us are or were not persecuting Christians like Saul; however, one thing was true is that we were not walking according to the plan that God had for our lives.

Despite how bad things were before our “Christ encounter”, it is really reassuring to see where God said: “Go, for this man is a [deliberately] chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel;” Acts 9:15 AMP

I am so grateful that even in the midst of our actions which were/are contrary to Christ, he still sees us as his chosen instruments.

As leaders, we error. We may have multiple trips where we deviate from Gods plan for our lives. Maybe not to the initial degree but we may find ourselves off the road or even losing ground on the road.

The good news is that Christ is still trying to get our attention and to prepare us for promotion and advancement. He created us and he knows us and creates moments of divine revelation that are absolute and undeniable because it is so impactful and transformational for us.

God is acutely aware of how to get our attention and to demonstrate his sovereignty, love and rulership.

We just have to yield and allow him to help us.

He even writes: “THEREFORE THEN, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us,

and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us,

Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection].

He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God. [Ps. 110:1.]” Hebrews 12:1-2 AMPC

Despite what we have achieved so far, we are destined for even greater works because of our “Christ encounter” if we would once again:

“Delight ourselves also in the Lord, and He will give us the desires and secret petitions of our heart.

Commit our way to the Lord [roll and repose each care of our load on Him]; trust (lean on, rely on, and be confident) also in Him and He will bring it to pass.” Psalm 37:4-5 AMPC

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“And requested of him letters to the synagogues at Damascus [authorizing him], so that if he found any men or women belonging to the Way [of life as determined by faith in Jesus Christ], he might bring them bound [with chains] to Jerusalem.

Now as he traveled on, he came near to Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him, And he fell to the ground.

Then he heard a voice saying to him, Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me [harassing, troubling, and molesting Me]?

And Saul said, Who are You, Lord? And He said, I am Jesus, Whom you are persecuting. It is dangerous and it will turn out badly for you to keep kicking against the goad [to offer vain and perilous resistance].

Trembling and astonished he asked, Lord, what do You desire me to do?

The Lord said to him, But arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.

The men who were accompanying him were unable to speak [for terror], hearing the voice but seeing no one.

Then Saul got up from the ground, but though his eyes were opened, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus.” Acts 9:2-8 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/act.9.3-8.AMPC

Bear Fruit with Patience

I was reflecting this morning and my mind drifted toward foundational principles and concepts that, if missed, can really cause us as leaders to build our dreams on foundations of sand vs solid rock. And that grieved me.

Concept #1:

While on this earth, though for a vapor, the scripture says we are ALL given some basic raw materials:

“While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.”Genesis 8:22 AMP

“Now He who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed for sowing [that is, your resources] and increase the harvest of your righteousness [which shows itself in active goodness, kindness, and love].” 2 Corinthians 9:10 AMP

It is up to us how we utilize these resources. Do we squander them, dismiss them, or do we cherish them and serve as good stewards of them? All are OUR CHOICES.

Concept #2:

We often have grand visions but we soon discover our imperfect souls require constant spiritual maintenance: surgery to get our hearts to align with God resulting in prepared and nourished soil.

Grand visions with no biblical character is shallow or hollow at best:

“Incline your ear [to listen] and come to Me; Hear, so that your soul may live; And I will make an everlasting covenant with you, According to the faithful mercies [promised and] shown to David.

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

Let the wicked leave (behind) his way And the unrighteous man his thoughts; And let him return to the Lord, And He will have compassion (mercy) on him, And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.”

Isaiah 55:3, 6-8 AMP

Concept #3:

When looking at the 80/20 rule as applied to our spiritual growth, preparing the soil of our hearts, ensuring alignment with Gods thoughts and being obedient to his directions are the 20% tasks that make all the difference.

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

Matthew 6:33 AMP

These are some fundamental principles that require time and meditation until we receive revelation and own them.

Our breakthrough to the next level is dependent on our soil quality.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“But as for that [seed] in the good soil, these are [the people] who, hearing the Word, hold it fast in a just (noble, virtuous) and worthy heart, and steadily bring forth fruit with patience.”

Luke 8:15 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/luk.8.15.AMPC

Press On

I was reflecting on these scriptures and just how much energy and focus we need as leaders to be able to just “press on”.

There are always mountains to climb, land to acquire, goals to meet and issues to resolve but one thing that is required to navigate through these storms is our ability to pursue peace and to just “press on” – keep it moving!

We must realize that our greatest challenges and resistance often lives right at the door of our breakthroughs and success’s.

In the military, there is often an event called the “crucible” – a cumulative rigorous exercise which requires demonstrated mastery of recent learnings. The second objective of the “crucible” is often to test your ability to “press on” !

Each of us are living through our own “crucible”. To us, I share these thoughts:

⁃ Yes there is discomfort. So what, “press on”.

⁃ Yes there is disappointment. So what, “press on”.

⁃ Yes there are fears, doubts, and limited beliefs. So what, “press on”.

Yes, progress comes with a price. It demands more time of us in study, prayer and consecration.

We are in a season where breakthroughs will surface out of the chaos for those of us who choose to rest in Christ, have peace and “press on”.

We may see resistance of various kinds; but, we will have to just take the ground that has been promised to us.

We will take these hills only with the faith and belief in the promise that god has given us. This is the mindset we must develop as the whole earth is groaning and awaiting the manifestation of the sons of god.

Thank you Lord for this word!

It is my prayer and decree that , we your people, this year will just take you at your word and move forward in faith so that your kingdom comes and that your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Press on!

“I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature [pursuing spiritual perfection] should have this attitude. And if in any respect you have a different attitude, that too God will make clear to you.”

Philippians 3:14-15 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/php.3.14-15.AMP

“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; always carrying around in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be shown in our body.”

2 Corinthians 4:8-10 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2co.4.8-10.AMP

“You [my enemy] pushed me violently so that I was falling, But the Lord helped me. The Lord is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation.”

Psalms 118:13-14 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.118.13-14.AMP