encouragement – Vision Multiplier International, LLC

Ask of Me

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that there is power and provision that comes when we, as sons and daughters, simply make an ask of our father.

The ask can be for: a spouse, a family, a job, a promotion, a business, health, healing, or a place to call community.

Our starting with adoration towards Christ is a great first step.

The Bible tells us:

“Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

Serve the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing.

Know ye that the LORD he is God: It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise: Be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; And his truth endureth to all generations.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭100‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Ascribe to the Lord the glory of His name; Bring an offering and come into His courts. Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness; Tremble [in submissive wonder] before Him, all the earth.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭96‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

We must understand and believe that our actions have set the atmosphere as what father does not appreciate genuine adoration and appreciation?

The Bible teaches us:

“Just as a father loves his children, So the Lord loves those who fear and worship Him [with awe-filled respect and deepest reverence].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen!

When we err, God’s love toward us is illustrated in the example of the prodigal son where the Bible says:

“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe [for the guest of honor] and put it on him; and give him a ring for his hand, and sandals for his feet. [Gen 41:42; Zech 3:4]

And bring the fattened calf and slaughter it, and let us [invite everyone and] feast and celebrate;

for this son of mine was [as good as] dead and is alive again; he was lost and has been found.’ So they began to celebrate.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭15‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Our responsibility as His sons and daughters is to press forward in the power of His grace and set aside every thought that is not rooted in love – earnestly praying to the Lord.

Scripture shows us how:

“So do not be like them [praying as they do]; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.

“Pray, then, in this way: ‘Our Father, who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. [Luke 11:2-4]

‘Your kingdom come, Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭8‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

We must be careful not to carry hurts and grieved hearts because of man’s actions.

Especially during these times, we must be careful to guard our hearts and to lay our hurts at the feet of Jesus.

The Bible states that:

“The Lord saw that the wickedness (depravity) of man was great on the earth, and that every imagination or intent of the thoughts of his heart were only evil continually.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭6‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Yet

““No weapon that is formed against you will succeed; And every tongue that rises against you in judgment you will condemn. This [peace, righteousness, security, and triumph over opposition] is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And this is their vindication from Me,” says the Lord.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭54‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, let us live our daily lives as unto the Lord and ask Him to lead us and to guide us so that our light will continue to shine:

“Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“He [is the one who] shall build a house for My Name and My Presence, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.

I will be his Father, and he shall be My son. When he commits iniquity (wrongdoing), I will discipline him with the rod of men and with the strokes of the sons of man.

But My lovingkindness and mercy will not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I removed from before you.

Your house (royal dynasty) and your kingdom will endure forever before Me; your throne will be established forever.” ’ ””

‭‭2 Samuel‬ ‭7‬:‭13‬-‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In Jesus name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“”I will declare the decree of the Lord: He said to Me, ‘You are My Son; This day [I proclaim] I have begotten You. [2 Sam 7:14; Heb 1:5; 3:5, 6; 2 Pet 1:17, 18]

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

‘You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall shatter them [in pieces] like earthenware.’ ” [Rev 12:5; 19:15]

Now therefore, O kings, act wisely; Be instructed and take warning, O leaders (judges, rulers) of the earth.

Worship the Lord and serve Him with reverence [with awe-inspired fear and submissive wonder]; Rejoice [yet do so] with trembling.

Kiss (pay respect to) the Son, so that He does not become angry, and you perish in the way, For His wrath may soon be kindled and set aflame. How blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] are all those who take refuge in Him!”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭2‬:‭7‬-‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.2.7-12.AMP

Without God’s Guidance

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, as leaders, must be persistent to pursue and strive for a life with Christ where we don’t move without receiving our daily customized guidance.

The Bible reminds us to:

“Set your 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 you died [to this world], and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

In the natural world, there is a term used called bespoke, which means that something is high-end and customized to our specific needs and desires – therefore it is valuable and “precious”.

In the spiritual realm, we should desire and strive for such an intimacy level with Christ that we receive “precious” guidance, answers and solutions that are tailored for our “right now” need based on who we are and where we are on this faith journey.

In short, a message that is uniquely and ONLY designed for US!

Selah

There are those who believe that all this bespoke opulence is not necessary; however, we are maturing to acquire the mindset that unless it is custom tailored for me I don’t want it!

We stand on the Bible which says:

“Then He touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith [your trust and confidence in My power and My ability to heal] it will be done to you.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9‬:‭29‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG!

As joint heirs, we must grow to and be comfortable with this level of living.

We read and stand on the Word of God which says:

“For this reason I am telling you, whatever things you ask for in prayer [in accordance with God’s will], believe [with confident trust] that you have received them, and they will be given to you.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the best of the land;”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts higher than your thoughts.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“So let no one boast in men [about their wisdom, or of having this or that one as a leader]. For all things are yours,”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen!

To be clear, there is a price to be paid, in advance, to qualify for such a high-level of customize living.

The Bible describes it this way:

“O God, You are my God; with deepest longing I will seek You; My soul [my life, my very self] thirsts for You, my flesh longs and sighs for You, In a dry and weary land where there is no water.

So I have gazed upon You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory. [Ps 42:1, 2]

Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips shall praise You.

So will I bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name.

My soul [my life, my very self] is satisfied as with marrow and fatness, And my mouth offers praises [to You] with joyful lips.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭63‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Oh my Lord!

In closing, let us believe that it is possible with Christ to achieve that level of intimacy, where the solutions to our problems are so precise, exact, relevant, and unique.

Scripture says:

“There I will meet with you; from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony, I will speak [intimately] with you regarding every commandment that I will give you for the Israelites.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭25‬:‭22‬ ‭AMP‬‬

This is the lifestyle that we strive for, desire, and must continue to pursue daily with humbled hearts to receive.

The Bible instructs us to:

“…put to death and deprive of power the evil longings of your earthly body [with its sensual, self-centered instincts] immorality, impurity, sinful passion, evil desire, and greed, which is [a kind of] idolatry [because it replaces your devotion to God].”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As we do theses things, we are well positioned to receive God’s guidance.

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher. “Vanity of vanities!

All [that is done without God’s guidance] is vanity [futile, meaningless—a wisp of smoke, a vapor that vanishes, merely chasing the wind].” [Rom 8:20]

What advantage does man have from all his work Which he does under the sun (while earthbound)? One generation goes and another generation comes, But the earth remains forever. [Ps 119:90]”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ecc.1.2-4.AMP

[Be] Not Slothful in Business

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 be careful and judicious in ensuring that we don’t fall into belief traps that are easily set before us.

We live in a fallen world where it’s normal to fight to get ahead by taking all from others.

As believers, we know that we are always being positioned for greater and greater success yet our “actions of faith” can present us with mental battles of perceived shame or embarrassment – because the approach is different.

The good news is that the Bible reminds us that:

“…God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

As spirit lead leaders, we choose daily to conduct business as sons of God and choose to conduct business Gods way:

“For all who are allowing themselves to be led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“…But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes]. [Is 40:13]”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Our leveraging Gods principles and pursuing His instructions – including divinely given wisdom, understanding, strategies and knowledge “know how” we thrive in the marketplace.

The Bible remind us that:

“And God blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let fowl multiply in the earth.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭22‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over [with no space left for more]. For with the standard of measurement you use [when you do good to others], it will be measured to you in return.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭6‬:‭38‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““You will also decide and decree a thing, and it will be established for you; And the light [of God’s favor] will shine upon your ways.”

‭‭Job‬ ‭22‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I assure you and most solemnly say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea!’ and does not doubt in his heart [in God’s unlimited power], but believes that what he says is going to take place, it will be done for him [in accordance with God’s will]. [Matt 17:20; Luke 17:6; 1 John 5:14]

For this reason I am telling you, whatever things you ask for in prayer [in accordance with God’s will], believe [with confident trust] that you have received them, and they will be given to you.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Do not be afraid and anxious, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭32‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the best of the land;”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank You Lord!

In conclusion, it is my sincere prayer that we will choose Christ and to conduct our business affairs in a way that is pleasing to Him:

““Now, therefore, fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and in truth; remove the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the [Euphrates] River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord.

If it is unacceptable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you live; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.””

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭24‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“‘The silver is Mine and the gold is Mine,’ declares the Lord of hosts.

‘The latter glory of this house will be greater than the former,’ says the Lord of hosts, ‘and in this place I shall give [the ultimate] peace and prosperity,’ declares the Lord of hosts.””

‭‭Haggai‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Bkessing!

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭10‬-‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/rom.12.10-12.KJV

You Shall Fear [only] the Lord Your God

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, as leaders, must continue to be careful and diligent that our one and true love is given to Christ and Christ alone.

We know by faith in Gods Word, that our futures are secure and that we have all sufficiency in all things in Christ.

Yet, the Bible instructs us that to:

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: And the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

For by me thy days shall be multiplied, And the years of thy life shall be increased.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

Our spiritual growth is directly tied to our making and sustaining the decision to seeking God first. The scripture says it this way:

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

Have this same attitude in yourselves which was in Christ Jesus [look to Him as your example in selfless humility],”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

And God is able to make all grace [every favor and earthly blessing] come in abundance to you, so that you may always [under all circumstances, regardless of the need] have complete sufficiency in everything [being completely self-sufficient in Him], and have an abundance for every good work and act of charity.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

Secondly, the more we serve and give generously to those in need, we know that we are sowing seeds of Godly love:

“As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Let each one give [thoughtfully and with purpose] just as he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver [and delights in the one whose heart is in his gift]. [Prov 22:9]

Selah

In closing, it is my sincere prayer that we, the leaders, will maintain ears to hear and tender hearts to remain grounded, keeping Jesus first, as we are blessed. That is the beginning of wisdom!

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: And the knowledge of the holy is understanding.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions; partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used.

For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.

Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.

For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭31‬-‭36‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Then it shall come about when the Lord your God brings you into the land which He swore (solemnly promised) to [give] your fathers—to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—to give you, [a land with] great and splendid cities which you did not build,

and houses full of all good things which you did not fill, and hewn (excavated) cisterns (wells) which you did not dig out, and vineyards and olive trees which you did not plant, and you eat and are full and satisfied, then beware that you do not forget the Lord who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.

You shall fear [only] the Lord your God; and you shall serve Him [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect] and swear [oaths] by His name [alone].”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭6‬:‭10‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/deu.6.10-13.AMP

Build Again

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought about how we, the leaders, respond to “right now” challenges and obstacles will determine our success or failure.

There are many paths and causes that can lead us to this place of pain, discomfort, and confusion – usually it’s because of a consequential loss or a catastrophic event.

This place where every fiber of our being wants to just quit and give up; however, we have matured enough to know to first seek the Father for comfort and direction.

When we do, we hear the message in that still small voice – “build again”.

Oh my Lord!

How do we do that?

How do we navigate this gut wrenching moment?

How do we find a spark or an ember in our hearts to muster the will to build again?

Selah

We recognize that we need and are desperate for His healing grace, His anointing, His direction, and His strength.

And the Bible reveals a path forward that is already provided:

“To grant to those who mourn in Zion the following: To give them a turban instead of dust [on their heads, a sign of mourning], The oil of joy instead of mourning, The garment [expressive] of praise instead of a disheartened spirit. So they will be called the trees of righteousness [strong and magnificent, distinguished for integrity, justice, and right standing with God], The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Instead of your [former] shame you will have a double portion; And instead of humiliation your people will shout for joy over their portion. Therefore in their land they will possess double [what they had forfeited]; Everlasting joy will be theirs.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Trust in the LORD, and do good; So shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.

Commit thy way unto the LORD; Trust also in him; And he shall bring it to pass.

And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, And thy judgment as the noonday.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭3‬, ‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank you Lord!

Let us reverently remember to sing, praise and worship Christ the King while in our places and during our times of weakness:

“Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts.

Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.

Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.

Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced,”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭105‬:‭2‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“…the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.

And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭26‬-‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Selah

Let us be thankful to God as we have the promise of victory even as we do the work to turn the waste places into the garden of Eden:

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭57‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“especially in Jerusalem. He sent me to give them flowers in place of their sorrow, olive oil in place of tears, and joyous praise in place of broken hearts. They will be called “Trees of Justice,” planted by the Lord to honor his name.

Your descendants will be known in every nation. All who see them will realize that they have been blessed, by me, the Lord.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭3‬, ‭9‬ ‭CEV‬‬

In closing, let us never forget that Christ is our hope of glory and in Him we have all sufficiency in all things for every good work- including building again!

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then they will rebuild the ancient ruins, They will raise up and restore the former desolations; And they will renew the ruined cities, The desolations (deserted settlements) of many generations.

Strangers will stand and feed your flocks, And foreigners will be your farmers and your vinedressers.

But you shall be called the priests of the Lord; People will speak of you as the ministers of our God. You will eat the wealth of nations, And you will boast of their riches. [Ex 19:6; 1 Pet 2:5; Rev 1:6; 5:10; 20:6]

Instead of your [former] shame you will have a double portion; And instead of humiliation your people will shout for joy over their portion.

Therefore in their land they will possess double [what they had forfeited]; Everlasting joy will be theirs. For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery with a burnt offering. And I will faithfully reward them, And make an everlasting covenant with them.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭4‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.61.4-8.AMP

Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification and Redemption

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought of how in Christ, we have all sufficiency in all things – if we would just learn to rest and trust in Him!

The Bible shows us how to rest. It says:

“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; The humble and downtrodden will hear it and rejoice. O magnify the Lord with me, And let us lift up His name together.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

As leaders, what could cause us to have a posture like this?

Here are a couple of truths that we can meditate on when we lose our way.

“God has selected [for His purpose] the insignificant (base) things of the world, and the things that are despised and treated with contempt, [even] the things that are nothing, so that He might reduce to nothing the things that are,”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God [revealing His plan of salvation], and righteousness [making us acceptable to God], and sanctification [making us holy and setting us apart for God], and redemption [providing our ransom from the penalty for sin],”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭30‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“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] having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of legal demands [which were in force] against us and which were hostile to us. And this certificate He has set aside and completely removed by nailing it to the cross.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For you know that you were not redeemed from your useless [spiritually unproductive] way of life inherited [by tradition] from your forefathers with perishable things like silver and gold, but [you were actually purchased] with precious blood, like that of a [sacrificial] lamb unblemished and spotless, the priceless blood of Christ. [Lev 22:20]”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

With a grateful heart, we can walk in trust that Gods has got us.

“But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Indeed the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid; you are far more valuable than many sparrows.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬ ‭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]. [Is 55:10; Hos 10:12] You will be enriched in every way so that you may be generous, and this [generosity, administered] through us is producing thanksgiving to God [from those who benefit].”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

All He asks of us is:

“Wherefore Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, And touch not the unclean thing; And I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, And ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him…”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭7‬A KJV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, let us adore Him and walk in His blessing:

“O come, let us worship and bow down, Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker [in reverent praise and prayer]. For He is our God And we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand. Today, if you will hear His voice, [Heb 3:7-11] Do not harden your hearts and become spiritually dull as at Meribah [the place of strife], And as at Massah [the place of testing] in the wilderness, [Ex 17:1-7; Num 20:1-13; Deut 6:16]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭95‬:‭6‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.”

‭‭Numbers‬ ‭6‬:‭24‬-‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“God has selected [for His purpose] the insignificant (base) things of the world, and the things that are despised and treated with contempt, [even] the things that are nothing,

so that He might reduce to nothing the things that are, so that no one may [be able to] boast in the presence of God.

But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God [revealing His plan of salvation], and righteousness [making us acceptable to God], and sanctification [making us holy and setting us apart for God], and redemption [providing our ransom from the penalty for sin],

so then, as it is written [in Scripture], “He who boasts and glories, let him boast and glory in the Lord.” [Jer 9:24]”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬-‭31‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/1co.1.28-31.AMP

Try Again

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, often face critical decision points in life.

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

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

How did we arrive at our current destination in life?

How did we miss seeing our current challenge approaching us?

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

Selah

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

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

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

The Bible describes it this way:

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

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

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

We can follow the instructions in the Bible which says:

“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Trust [rely on and have confidence] in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land and feed [securely] on His faithfulness.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

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

He tells us in His Word:

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

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

Here are a few parting scriptures from the Bible:

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

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭6‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

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

Break Up Your Fallow Ground

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must periodically take an honest inventory of ourselves and assess where we truly stand on the outcomes that really matter. We are either progressing toward or digressing from our desired goals and objectives.

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

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

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

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

‭‭Hosea‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

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

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

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

The Bible instructs and informs us to:

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭20‬B KJV‬‬

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

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

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

“It is because of the Lord’s lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed, Because His [tender] compassions never fail. [Mal 3:6]

They are new every morning; Great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness. [Is 33:2]

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

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

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

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

‭‭2 Samuel‬ ‭23‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

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

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

In Jesus name, Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

‭‭Hosea‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

When That Which is Complete and Perfect Comes

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

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

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Oh My Lord!

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

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

What we do also know from the Bible is:

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

OMG!

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

Scripture says it this way:

“while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen.

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

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing !

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭8‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

Enduring Love

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

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

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

The Bible says:

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

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

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

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

‭‭Romans‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen.

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

The Bible says it this way:

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

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Yes Lord!

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

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

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

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

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

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭7‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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