encouragement – Page 5 – Vision Multiplier International, LLC

Proportionally More

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

I was reflecting this morning on this familiar scripture and my mind pondered, as leaders, what does it mean to be “all in”?

We see the example with the widow woman giving all she financially had but this principle also can be applied to other areas of our lives.

There is an expectation that leaders must be “all in” for the mission, purpose and cause!

Leaders must invest proportionately more thought, energy and effort than others – to be that example for others to follow.

Scripture reminds us of the benefits of being diligent about our fathers business:

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭29‬ ‭ASV‬‬

“And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭49‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Being “all in” requires that we invest in:

Think time for planning and strategizing.
Personal time to keep our mind, body and spirit strengthened and energized.
Relationship building time with our inner circle and customers as relationships are the glue.
Execution time: ensuring we are getting the right things done by the right people!

In short, our levels of contribution are the difference maker!

Our mindset and belief should be:

“We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work.”

John‬ ‭9‬:‭4‬AMP‬‬

“And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“I love them that love me; And those that seek me early shall find me.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭8‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It is an awesome responsibility and burden to be called “leader”; we can receive comfort and strength knowing that Christ understands us and meets us where we are:

“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

In conclusion, our success is guaranteed as we:

“…become imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father];”

Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ AMP‬‬

“and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance. [Ezek 20:41]”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord that your Word says the righteous will be remembered forever [Prov 10:7] and we will not fear bad news as we steadfastly trust [confidently relying on and believing] in the you! [Psalms‬ ‭112‬:‭7‬]

Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Looking up, He saw the rich people putting their gifts into the treasury. [Mark 12:41-44]

And He saw a poor widow putting in two small copper coins.

He said, “Truly I say to you, this poor widow has put in [proportionally]more than all of them;

for they all put in gifts from their abundance; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭21‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.21.1-4.AMP

Certainly I Will Be With Thee

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and began thinking on the idea that we, as leaders, sometimes need periodic reassurance while we do our work unto the Lord.

It is my prayer and goal today to encourage us leaders to not slow down, become timid or deterred from doing the work the Lord has called us to do.

We may feel that our purpose or mission is daunting and much greater than our individual ability to achieve; however, we know that we are dependent upon God’s supernatural power being the driving force.

We can be reassured that the work the Lord has called us to do is ordained by Him and predestined to be successful and that success in this time and season requires first spending time with and hearing from the Lord in prayer on what to do and when.

Then we will have confidence that truly all things are possible and failure is not an option because we believe!

Next, we leaders must work extremely hard to manage and cast down the negative narratives that enter our minds – thoughts of doubt, fear, inadequacy or insufficiency!

Scriptural truth declares that we have all sufficiency in all things through Christ Jesus:

“And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

That is what we must meditate on until it becomes our mantra!

Lastly, when feel the sense of overwhelm, solace can be found as we declare scriptural truth:

“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 ‭6‬:‭34‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Time fear tries to grip us with thoughts of: “I will not be able to get it done in enough time”, or “I don’t have enough time to do all the things that I would like to do.”

But I hear the spirit of the Lord saying that if we sow our time seed with Him, His word and His spirit, He will multiply our time seeds so that there is sufficient time to accomplish His work.

“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

We already have provision and solutions through Christ to our perceived time constraint:

“Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me? What I am telling you I do not say on My own authority and of My own accord; but the Father Who lives continually in Me does the (His) works (His own miracles, deeds of power). Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me; or else believe Me for the sake of the [very] works themselves. [If you cannot trust Me, at least let these works that I do in My Father’s name convince you.]”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Creating the plan for “today” and living intentionally for “today”, we will be able to successfully prioritize, and then execute our plans.

Having daily thought discipline, action discipline and belief discipline is critical knowing that there is sufficient time -even as we execute with a sense of urgency and purpose!

We just have to trust and believe knowing that He is with us.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.

And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.

And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses.

And he said, Here am I. And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.

Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.

And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows; and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.

Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt. And

Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?

And he said, Certainly I will be with thee; and this shall be a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬-‭8‬, ‭10‬-‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/exo.3.12.KJV

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

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!

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

Spoiled By the Potter’s Hand

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

I was reflecting this morning on this scripture and the reality that in our journeys with God we are constantly challenged to grow.

Usually we find, as leaders, that when we face obstacles or resistant, there is often a “faith lesson” in the works to prepare and strengthen us while refining our skills for the next level of leadership.

This process can be frustrating, disheartening and difficult as promotion usually requires us to change to thrive at the higher level.

Scripture tells us:

“For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.” Hebrews‬ ‭3‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Yes, he knows us but we must learn ourselves and choose to lay down our weights, habits, beliefs and simply say “yes lord” – despite it all, I will go!

Everyday, we are presented with a choice to move forward in Christ or not!

We do not always make the correct choice but we can improve our odds of success in Christ by surrendering our hearts, minds, emotions, dreams and fears to Him – allowing him to mix our lives up like the potter.

Allow Christ to Continuously Improve Us:

Often times we have grown and formed into a pot that capacity to handle so much of the “weight of leadership”. If we are not careful, our development and preparedness can become obsolete or ineffective as new situations demand “more”.

Unless we allow ourselves to be broken, molded and reshaped on the potters wheel, we will not be adequately prepared or equipped for the demands of the moment.

It is my sincere prayer and declaration that we will remain faithful and keep our hearts receptive for the calling of God:

“Now Moses was faithful in [the administration of] all God’s house, [but only] as a ministering servant, [his ministry serving] as a testimony of the things which were to be spoken afterward [the revelation to come in Christ]; [Num 12:7] but

Christ is faithful as a Son over His [Father’s] house. And we are His house if we hold fast our confidence and sense of triumph in our hope [in Christ].

Therefore, just as the Holy Spirit says, “Today if you hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as [your fathers did] in the rebellion [of Israel at Meribah], On the day of testing in the wilderness,”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭3‬:‭5-8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let’s let the potter continue to mold us and get all the glory! He does marvelous work.

In Jesus Name.

Be Blesses!

Be a Blessing!

“The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord:

“Arise and go down to the potter’s house, and there I will make you hear My words.”

Then I went down to the potter’s house, and saw that he was working at the wheel.

But the vessel that he was making from clay was spoiled by the potter’s hand; so he made it over, reworking it and making it into another pot that seemed good to him.

Then the word of the Lord came to me:

“O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” says the Lord. “Look carefully, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel.

At one moment I might [suddenly] speak concerning a nation or kingdom, that I will uproot and break down and destroy;

if that nation against which I have spoken turns from its evil, I will relent and reverse My decision concerning the devastation that I intended to do.

Or at another time I might [suddenly] speak about a nation or kingdom that I will build up or establish;

and if they do evil in My sight by not obeying My voice, then I will reverse My decision concerning the good with which I had promised to bless them.

Now then, say to the men of Judah and to the citizens of Jerusalem, ‘Thus says the Lord, “Behold, I am shaping a disaster and working out a plan against you. Turn back, each of you from his evil way; correct your habits and change your actions for the better.” ’

But they will say, ‘That is hopeless! For we are going to follow our own plans, and each of us will act in accordance with the stubbornness of his evil heart.’”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭18‬:‭1‬-‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jer.18.12.AMP

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

Be Steadfast

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://atomic-temporary-196791482.wpcomstaging.com/

I was reflecting this morning on this scripture and the thought that, we leaders, often struggle with making decisions whether to accept/ decline new roles/ responsibilities or with having steadfast confidence whether a related decision we made was the right one.

Some of this anxiety may result from the lack of sufficient decision making discipline or the lack of sufficient maturity in hearing, recognizing and acting upon the voice of God.

Whatever the cause, the result can be the same: our experiencing turmoil and anxiety versus being in a place of calm and rest.

We are not alone in having internal feelings of inadequacy but I am grateful that we serve a true and living god who is touched by our infirmaries. In Him we are made strong and he will always be with us as he was with Moses and Gideon:

“But Moses said to God, “Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?””

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And God said, “Certainly I will be with you…

Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬A AMP‬‬

“But Gideon said to Him, “Please Lord, how am I to rescue Israel? Behold, my family is the least [significant] in Manasseh, and I am the youngest (smallest) in my father’s house.””

‭‭Judges‬ ‭6‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“The Lord answered him, “I will certainly be with you….”

‭‭Judges‬ ‭6‬:‭16‬ A AMP‬‬

“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

Selah

We must be encouraged and believe that like Abraham, we will not stagger at the promises of God.

“But he did not doubt or waver in unbelief concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and empowered by faith, giving glory to God, being fully convinced that God had the power to do what He had promised.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭4‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, let us focus on meditating and becoming doers of these scriptures so that we may become steadfast in our leadership and follower-ship of Christ:

“The sheep that are My own hear My voice and listen to Me; I know them, and they follow Me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭27‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His [own] life for the sheep. [Ps 23; Is 40:11]”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“So submit to [the authority of] God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him] and he will flee from you.

Come close to God [with a contrite heart] and He will come close to you.

Wash your hands, you sinners; and purify your [unfaithful] hearts, you double-minded [people].

Humble yourselves [with an attitude of repentance and insignificance] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up, He will give you purpose].”

‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬-‭8‬, ‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin [by which it brings death] is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory [as conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord [always doing your best and doing more than is needed], being continually aware that your labor [even to the point of exhaustion] in the Lord is not futile nor wasted [it is never without purpose].”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭56‬-‭58‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/1co.15.57-58.AMP

That Your Faith May Not Fail

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

I was reflecting this morning on this scripture and my heart just keeps settling on “just trust god”!

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

Proverbs 16:7 AMP

We can be encouraged by this excerpt from Jeremiah which reminds us of gods commitment to perform his word:

“The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Jeremiah, what do you see?” And I said, “I see the branch of an almond tree.”

Then the Lord said to me, “You have seen well, for I am [actively] watching over My word to fulfill it.””

Jeremiah 1:11-12 AMP

Amen

We are living in a season of rapid and successive conflicts yet my spirit keeps reminding me that we just need to “trust god”.

“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

God alone is our place of refuge!

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

For He will save you from the trap of the fowler, And from the deadly pestilence.

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.”

Psalms 91:2-4 AMP

Regardless of the quantity and severity of the challenges, our hearts keep telling us-“just trust God”.

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

Psalms 34:19 AMP

We, leaders, must prioritize Him with our time in prayer, study, meditation and worship to achieve the best results.

““I love those who love me; And those who seek me early and diligently will find me. ”

Proverbs 8:17 AMP

We must believe that all of his magnificent wisdom will make things OK.

“Yes, You are my rock and my fortress; For Your name’s sake You will lead me and guide me.

You will draw me out of the net that they have secretly laid for me, For You are my strength and my stronghold.

Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord, the God of truth and faithfulness. [Luke 23:46; Acts 7:59]”

Psalms 31:3-5 AMP

We must believe that god is working it all out for our good:

“And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.”

Romans 8:28 AMP

““The Lord will cause the enemies who rise up against you to be defeated before you; they will come out against you one way, but flee before you seven ways.”

Deuteronomy 28:7 AMP

Lastly, the Lord’s mercy endurerh forever so we just need to trust, believe and call out to Him:

“When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you.”

Psalms 91:15 CEV

It is my prayer that our faith fail not!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“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].””

Luke 22:32 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.22.32.AMP