Tag: encouragement

We Are Well Able

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

I was reading the scripture this morning and the thought of how critical, as leaders, we must train ourselves to have “spiritual eyes” as we continue to grow in stature, influence and authority.

We see in this passage that the children of Israel were on the edge of claiming and possessing the land which God had promised them.

Moses was told, by God, to send out the leaders from each tribe to spy out the land. These leaders represented the best of the best.

They went and did what was commanded but when they returned, most had an “evil report” that success was impossible as they measured their success ability by “their” capabilities vs God’s capabilities.

Alternatively, there were two leaders (Caleb and Joshua) who saw the same conditions but had a “good report” that success is possible! Their sight was solely focused on God’s capabilities.

Scripture shows us:

“…Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among the scouts who had searched the land, rent their clothes,

And they said to all the company of Israelites, The land through which we passed as scouts is an exceedingly good land.

If the Lord delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land flowing with milk and honey.

Only do not rebel against the Lord, neither fear the people of the land, for they are bread for us. Their defense and the shadow [of protection] is removed from over them, but the Lord is with us. Fear them not.”

Numbers 14:6-9 AMPC

Selah

As leaders, our faith is and will continue to be tested with greater and greater “mountains”. We will always need to lean on, rely on and depend on God! We must get comfortable being uncomfortable, understanding that God’s plans require us to grow.

Scripture challenges us to build up our faith:

“But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit;”

Jude 1:20 AMPC

Like taking medicine, meditating on the Word should be our action multiple times per day.

In closing, this is our prayer:

“Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God; let Your good Spirit lead me into a level country and into the land of uprightness.”

Psalm 143:10 AMPC

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“AND THE Lord said to Moses, Send men to explore and scout out [for yourselves] the land of Canaan, which I give to the Israelites. From each tribe of their fathers you shall send a man, every one a leader or head among them.

So Moses by the command of the Lord sent scouts from the Wilderness of Paran, all of them men who were heads of the Israelites.

Moses sent them to scout out the land of Canaan, and said to them, Get up this way by the South (the Negeb) and go up into the hill country,

And see what the land is and whether the people who dwell there are strong or weak, few or many,

And whether the land they live in is good or bad, and whether the cities they dwell in are camps or strongholds,

And what the land is, whether it is fat or lean, whether there is timber on it or not. And be of good courage and bring some of the fruit of the land. Now the time was the time of the first ripe grapes.

And they returned from scouting out the land after forty days. They came to Moses and Aaron and to all the Israelite congregation in the Wilderness of Paran at Kadesh, and brought them word, and showed them the land’s fruit.

They told Moses, We came to the land to which you sent us; surely it flows with milk and honey. This is its fruit.

But the people who dwell there are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large; moreover, there we saw the sons of Anak [of great stature and courage].

Amalek dwells in the land of the South (the Negeb); the Hittite, the Jebusite, and the Amorite dwell in the hill country; and the Canaanite dwells by the sea and along by the side of the Jordan [River].

Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once and possess it; we are well able to conquer it.

But his fellow scouts said, We are not able to go up against the people [of Canaan], for they are stronger than we are.”

Numbers 13:1-3, 17-20, 25-31 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/num.13.2-31.AMPC

My Steadfast Love

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures and the thought how the generational wealth of wisdom can be the greatest asset that we, as leaders, possess.

Each of us are destined to achieve great things in and through Christ!

“For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.”

Jeremiah 29:11 AMPC

We are given the dream and visions that are beyond our natural abilities – requiring us to depend on Christ!

God knows that we will make mistakes but God will honor his covenant.

”He [Solomon] shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son. When he commits iniquity, I will discipline him with the rod of men, with the stripes of the sons of men,“ 2 Samuel 7:13-14 ESV

Selah

This is encouraging because the Lord loves us so much and he honors his covenants and his word will not return void.

I am grateful that God’s promises are not bound by time. His covenant remains across generations -starting with Abram [Abraham]!

”Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.“

Genesis 12:1-3 KJV

Then we see Gods work in David’s generation:

”Now therefore so shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over my people, over Israel: and I was with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off all thine enemies out of thy sight, and have made thee a great name, like unto the name of the great men that are in the earth.“

2 Samuel 7:8-9 KJV

Now we see God’s faithfulness continuing with Solomon:

“And when your days [David] are fulfilled and you sleep with your fathers, I will set up after you your offspring [Solomon] who shall be born to you, and I will establish his kingdom.

He 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, I will chasten him with the rod of men and with the stripes of the sons of men.

But My mercy and loving-kindness shall not depart from him, as I took [them] from Saul, whom I took away from before you.

And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before you; your throne shall be established forever.”

2 Samuel 7:12-16 AMPC

Lastly. We see the covenant manifested in Christ.

”And this is God’s plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children.

Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus.“

Ephesians 3:6 NLT

Amen

In closing, we are blessed to serve a God that shows steadfast love – always!

He has and continues to make wisdom and understanding our portion – today!

We must continue to stand on His word and the covenant made with Abraham our father and ask for wisdom so that we can navigate life effectively.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”For he [Solomon] had dominion over all the region on this side the river, from Tiphsah even to Azzah, over all the kings on this side the river: and he had peace on all sides round about him.

And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.

And Solomon’s wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country, and all the wisdom of Egypt.

For he was wiser than all men; than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, and Chalcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol: and his fame was in all nations round about.

And he spake three thousand proverbs: and his songs were a thousand and five.

And he spake of trees, from the cedar tree that is in Lebanon even unto the hyssop that springeth out of the wall: he spake also of beasts, and of fowl, and of creeping things, and of fishes.

And there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom.“

1 Kings 4:24, 29-34 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/1ki.4.29.KJV

Rest in Hope

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and my heart just kept coming to the thought of how we all must get to the place that our hope and trust is ONLY in the Lord!

I am grateful that the scripture says we can just dwell under the shadow of the almighty when we just need to rest, reflect and recover.

”He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: My God; in him will I trust.“. Psalm 91:1-2 KJV

It is because we choose to put our trust and hope in Christ, we are able to tap into his endless flow of grace and mercies.

”It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed,

Because his compassions fail not.

They are new every morning: Great is thy faithfulness.

The LORD is my portion, saith my soul;

Therefore will I hope in him.“

Lamentations 3:22-24 KJV

Amen

As leaders, we sometimes try and figure everything out, lose our peace, become discouraged and lose our hope. The Bible reminds us that there is a better way:

”Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: But when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.“

Proverbs 13:12 KJV

”Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.“. Micah 7:7 KJV

It is my prayer that we, the leaders, allow ourselves to be vulnerable and transparent with God as he is concerned about that which concerns us.

”For I the Lord your God hold your right hand; I am the Lord, Who says to you, Fear not; I will help you!“. Isaiah 41:13 AMPC

He is our hope and we choose to just rest in Him!

Be Blessed!

Be A Blessing!

”I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel:

My reins also instruct me in the night seasons. I have set the LORD always before me:

Because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: My flesh also shall rest in hope.“

Psalm 16:7-9 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.16.9.KJV

God is Bringing You into a Good Land

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

I was reflecting this morning on the thought that we, the leaders, have provision and blessings all around us. We must purpose in our hearts to stop and see that “it is good” and understand “that it is God”.

No matter the situation, there is evidence that God has and continues to provide for us.

We must trust and believe God. He is our source and sustainer. Below are scripture excerpts that are powerful:

“Every commandment that I am commanding you today you shall be careful to do..”

We must learn the commandments, the ways and heart of God in order for us to “understand and remember”

As we study the commandments and instructions contained in the Bible and meditate on them day and night, we will see success. Our hearts will become full with the word and our belief system will grow.

“And you shall remember [always] all the ways which the Lord your God has led you…”

What may forget that God is still working hard to fulfill his promise made to Abraham.

God was faithful to the children of Israel while they were in the wilderness.

We are descendants of Abraham through Christ Jesus and God still actively performing his word. He is a promise keeper for generations.

“He humbled you and allowed you to be hungry and fed you with manna, [a substance] which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, so that He might make you understand [by personal experience] …”

As leaders, there is a journey that we must travel collectively as a tribe but there is also a “private” journey that each of us must walk.

We cannot borrow the experiences of those before us as “our manna” is tailored to “our need”.

The Lord meets us where we are and provides us with a unique testimony of his goodness, and grace in our lives.

We must: “walk [that is, to live each and every day] in His ways and fear [and worship] Him [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect]. “

Our Promise and Portion:

“when you have eaten and are satisfied, and have built good houses and lived in them, and when your herds and flocks multiply, and your silver and gold multiply, and all that you have increases…”

This is our promise and portion and will forever be our promise and portion if we continue to learn, meditate on and do the commandments contained in his word.

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”“Every commandment that I am commanding you today you shall be careful to do, so that you may live and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the Lord swore [to give] to your fathers.

And you shall remember [always] all the ways which the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, so that He might humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart (mind), whether you would keep His commandments or not.

He humbled you and allowed you to be hungry and fed you with manna, [a substance] which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, so that He might make you understand [by personal experience] that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord.

Your clothing did not wear out on you, nor did your feet swell these forty years.

Therefore, know in your heart (be fully cognizant) that the Lord your God disciplines and instructs you just as a man disciplines and instructs his son.

Therefore, you shall keep the commandments of the Lord your God, to walk [that is, to live each and every day] in His ways and fear [and worship] Him [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect].

For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and springs, flowing forth in valleys and hills;

a land of wheat and barley, and vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey;

a land where you will eat bread without shortage, in which you will lack nothing; a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills you can dig copper.

When you have eaten and are satisfied, then you shall bless the Lord your God for the good land which He has given you.

“Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by failing to keep His commandments and His judgments (precepts) and His statutes which I am commanding you today;

otherwise, when you have eaten and are satisfied, and have built good houses and lived in them,

and when your herds and flocks multiply, and your silver and gold multiply, and all that you have increases,

then your heart will become lifted up [by self-conceit and arrogance] and you will forget the Lord your God who brought you from the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.“

Deuteronomy 8:1-14 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/deu.8.2-12.AMP

Endure

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that success, as a leader, often is a result of how successful we become at learning to endure. (Def. to carry on through, despite hardships)

OMG

Like the saints of old, when hardships and challenges came, they did not shrink or retract, they relied on the Word of God, the anointing and prayer to take the fight to the enemy.

As leaders of today, we can and must do the same!

The world would have us to think that there is no hope, but:

”There is a way which seems right to a man and appears straight before him, But its end is the way of death.“ Proverbs 14:12 AMP

As believers, the Bible tells us:

”Have this same attitude in yourselves which was in Christ Jesus [look to Him as your example in selfless humility],“ Philippians 2:5 AMP

”The wicked flee when no one pursues them, But the righteous are as bold as a lion.“

Proverbs 28:1 AMP

”Blessed be the Lord, my Rock and my great strength, Who trains my hands for war And my fingers for battle;“. Psalms 144:1 AMP

”Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once and take possession of it; for we will certainly conquer it.”“ Numbers 13:30 AMP

”You are jealous and covet [what others have] and your lust goes unfulfilled; so you murder. You are envious and cannot obtain [the object of your envy]; so you fight and battle. You do not have because you do not ask [it of God].“

James 4:2 AMP

”If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.“

James 1:5 AMP

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

The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you.“ Philippians 4:8-9 AMP

I pray that we will fight the good fight of faith today so that we can endure – to carry on through, despite hardships – to the end!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.

And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.“ Matthew 24:10-13 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.24.10-13.KJV

As Far As You Can See

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

I was reading and reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that visions can be incremental, progressive and expansive as we grow as a leader. As we study, assimilate the Word of god and grow our faith, our vision of what truly is “possible” continues to expand.

Let’s believe what we can see today!

Don’t be discouraged if our “faith” eyes are not as far or great as others- it does not matter.

God is working on meeting us where we are able to believe while encouraging us to continue to grow in our faith and belief to get the mind of Christ.

It is a journey and the process accelerates as we commit to doing the work to spend time with Christ.

There is a lot of discussion around vision boards which, as leaders, can be powerful tools to help us to decide what it is that we want and to help crystallize our ”picture”‘ of success.

With clarity on the picture of “what” we desire and our “whys”, we can then declare and decree our belief while planting the seed(s) of faith.

”Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” (The seven lamps represent the eyes of the Lord that search all around the world.)“

Zechariah 4:10 NLT

We need to embrace our seed(s) of greatness understanding that one seed planted in faith is:

”….like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his own garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the sky found shelter and nested in its branches.”“

Luke 13:19 AMP

What is still a great mystery is just how does that work. How does our having a picture of the desired outcome mixed with seeds of faith manifest into trees?

”Jesus replied to them, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted.

For whoever has [spiritual wisdom because he is receptive to God’s word], to him more will be given, and he will be richly and abundantly supplied; but whoever does not have [spiritual wisdom because he has devalued God’s word], even what he has will be taken away from him.“. Matthew 13:11-12 AMP

As leaders and as trailblazers, we often have a clear picture of what we believe success looks like in this season or at the end of this journey but I am also realizing that at times the vision can feel overwhelming and just needs to be reduced to the next task. The next milestone. The next ridge or hill.

There is value in having a long term or medium term plan but what is equally valuable is to not get distracted by the shear magnitude of the mission.

We have to focus on what “we can see” today, pray about it and then move forward.

A successful life is a string of successful days over time. Sow the seed of greatness today and water the soil of your heart with the anointing and the word which cleanses us of doubt.

”[looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work].“

Hebrews 12:2 AMP

My prayer for us today is found in Joshua that we:

”Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord our God is with us wherever we go.”“ Joshua 1:9 AMP

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”After Lot had gone, the Lord said to Abram, “Look as far as you can see in every direction—north and south, east and west.

I am giving all this land, as far as you can see, to you and your descendants as a permanent possession.

And I will give you so many descendants that, like the dust of the earth, they cannot be counted! Go and walk through the land in every direction, for I am giving it to you.”“

Genesis 13:14-17 NLT

https://bible.com/bible/116/gen.13.15-17.NLT

Thy Will

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

I was reflecting and meditating on this scripture this morning because there is a real battle that is waging in the spirit against gods people.

There are many distractions we face as leaders and many burdens we carry that we are not designed to carry alone.

Sometimes in the midst of the issue or crisis we can’t find words to express our thoughts, feelings and emotions but we know we desperately need a place of release and comfort.

I just wanted to share this thought to encourage us today…

”But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness.

Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!“. 2 Corinthians 12:9 AMPC

Let’s let that sink into our spirits.

Selah

”So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble.“ Matthew 6:34 AMPC

We can rest knowing: “The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: Forsake not the works of thine own hands.“

Psalm 138:8 KJV

”Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. …..” Exodus 3:6 KJV

He says and always says:

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.“ Matthew 11:28 KJV

”Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.“ John 14:27 KJV

”…lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.“. Matthew 28:20 KJV

We can trust:

”For with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment.“ Luke 1:37 AMPC

”When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.“. Proverbs 16:7 AMP

”My flesh and my heart may fail, But God is the rock and strength of my heart and my portion forever.“ Psalms 73:26 AMP

”But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.“ Luke 12:7 KJV

We must know that:

”The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.“ Psalm 18:2 KJV

”God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.“ Psalm 46:1 KJV

”The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, And delivereth them.“. Psalm 34:7 KJV

”For he shall give his angels charge over thee, To keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, Lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.“. Psalm 91:11-12 KJV

All we have to do is:

”Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:“ Isaiah 55:6 KJV

”Thou wilt shew me the path of life: In thy presence is fulness of joy; At thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.“ Psalm 16:11 KJV

My prayer for today is:

”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.“

Numbers 6:24-26 KJV

Let us surrender today saying “Thy will” be done!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.“

Matthew 6:9-10 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.6.9-10.KJV

Unless You

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and my mind just kept returning to the phrase “unless you”. As leaders, it’s relevant but does not matter what others are saying or doing as we are ultimately accountable for our “unless you”.

Scripture reminds us that as we stand before God and man, the responsibility is ours to demonstrate success or failure, and either doing or not doing what thus sayeth the Lord!

Our lives, our missions, our purposes, our families, and our success is dependent on how well we do the following:

“Unless you” do the work to let God lead.

”In this way our testimony about Christ was confirmed and established in you, so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift [which comes from the Holy Spirit], as you eagerly wait [with confident trust] for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ [when He returns].

And He will also confirm you to the end [keeping you strong and free of any accusation, so that you will be] blameless and beyond reproach in the day [of the return] of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God is faithful [He is reliable, trustworthy and ever true to His promise—He can be depended on], and through Him you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.“

1 Corinthians 1:6-9 AMP

“Unless you” take on the mind of Christ.

”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],

For this reason also [because He obeyed and so completely humbled Himself], God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name,“Philippians 2:4-5, 9 AMP

“Unless you” pray without ceasing.

”Rejoice always and delight in your faith; be unceasing and persistent in prayer; in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.“1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 AMP

“Unless you” pursue peace with all men.

”Continually pursue peace with everyone, and the sanctification without which no one will [ever] see the Lord.

See to it that no one falls short of God’s grace; that no root of resentment springs up and causes trouble, and by it many be defiled;” Hebrews 12:14-15 AMP

“Unless you” extend grace for offenses.

”For if by the trespass of the one (Adam), death reigned through the one (Adam), much more surely will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in [eternal] life through the One, Jesus Christ.“. Romans 5:17 AMP

“Unless you” honor the Lord with the tithe, we run the risk that the devourer will not be rebuked for our sake.

”Bring all the tithes (the tenth) into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,” says the Lord of hosts, “if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you [so great] a blessing until there is no more room to receive it.

Then I will rebuke the devourer (insects, plague) for your sake and he will not destroy the fruits of the ground, nor will your vine in the field drop its grapes [before harvest],” says the Lord of hosts.

“All nations shall call you happy and blessed, for you shall be a land of delight,” says the Lord of hosts.“ Malachi 3:10-12 AMP

“Unless you” seek first the kingdom and his righteousness, we are at risk that all these things we seek will not be added unto us.

”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

I pray that we, the leaders, will make the needed adjustments to continue to humble ourselves and to pursue God’s word and will so that His kingdom will come!

In Jesus Name. Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”Just at that time some people came who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate [the governor] had mixed with their sacrifices.

Jesus replied to them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans because they have suffered in this way?

I tell you, no; but unless you repent [change your old way of thinking, turn from your sinful ways and live changed lives], you will all likewise perish.

Or do you assume that those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed were worse sinners than all the others who live in Jerusalem?

I tell you, no; but unless you repent [change your old way of thinking, turn from your sinful ways and live changed lives], you will all likewise perish.”“ Luke 13:1-5 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.13.1-5.AMP

Who Then is That Faithful Steward, The Wise Man

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and my mind kept thinking about how critical it is for us, as leaders, to lead well – Every day! It really does make a difference and matters.

Scripture remind us that:

”When the [uncompromisingly] righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked man rules, the people groan and sigh.“ Proverbs 29:2 AMPC

We have a mandate to ”…Be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it [using all its vast resources in the service of God and man]; and have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and over every living creature that moves upon the earth.” Genesis 1:28 AMPC

So let’s look at biblical traits of “leading well”!

Leading well requires a godly management philosophy:

”If you will listen diligently to the voice of the Lord your God, being watchful to do all His commandments which I command you this day, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth.

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you if you heed the voice of the Lord your God.“ Deuteronomy 28:1-2 AMPC

”But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself [and given distinction to] him who is godly [the man of loving-kindness].

The Lord listens and heeds when I call to Him. You have put more joy and rejoicing in my heart than [they know] when their wheat and new wine have yielded abundantly.

In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You, Lord, alone make me dwell in safety and confident trust.“ Psalm 4:3, 7-8 AMPC

Amen

Leading well requires faith and diligence:

”But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out].“ Hebrews 11:6 AMPC

”Do you see a man diligent and skillful in his business? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.“

Proverbs 22:29 AMPC

”A man shall be commended according to his Wisdom [godly Wisdom, which is comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God], but he who is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

He who tills his land shall be satisfied with bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits is lacking in sense and is without understanding.

The wicked desire the booty of evil men, but the root of the [uncompromisingly] righteous yields [richer fruitage].“ Proverbs 12:8, 11-12 AMPC

Selah

Leading well requires courage to coach and mentor – providing constant feedback:

”Herald and preach the Word! Keep your sense of urgency [stand by, be at hand and ready], whether the opportunity seems to be favorable or unfavorable.

[Whether it is convenient or inconvenient, whether it is welcome or unwelcome, you as preacher of the Word are to show people in what way their lives are wrong.]

And convince them, rebuking and correcting, warning and urging and encouraging them, being unflagging and inexhaustible in patience and teaching.“ 2 Timothy 4:2 AMPC

Amen

Leading well requires effective delegation skills:

”Moreover, you shall choose able men from all the people–God-fearing men of truth who hate unjust gain–and place them over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, to be their rulers.

And let them judge the people at all times; every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they shall judge.

So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you.

If you will do this, and God so commands you, you will be able to endure [the strain], and all these people also will go to their [tents] in peace.“ Exodus 18:21-23 AMPC

Lastly, the best leaders are found “doing the work” required to manifest the vision given by God:

”And He said to them, How is it that you had to look for Me? Did you not see and know that it is necessary [as a duty] for Me to be in My Father’s house and [occupied] about My Father’s business?“

Luke 2:49 AMPC

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Lead well!

“Peter said, Lord, are You telling this parable for us, or for all alike?

And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful steward, the wise man whom his master will set over those in his household service to supply them their allowance of food at the appointed time?

Blessed (happy and to be envied) is that servant whom his master finds so doing when he arrives.

Truly I tell you, he will set him in charge over all his possessions.

But if that servant says in his heart, My master is late in coming, and begins to strike the menservants and the maids and to eat and drink and get drunk,

The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour of which he does not know, and will punish him and cut him off and assign his lot with the unfaithful.

And that servant who knew his master’s will but did not get ready or act as he would wish him to act shall be beaten with many [lashes]. But he who did not know and did things worthy of a beating shall be beaten with few [lashes].

For everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required; and of him to whom men entrust much, they will require and demand all the more. [Num. 15:29, 30; Deut. 25:2, 3.]“ Luke 12:41-48 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/luk.12.41-48.AMPC

The Disciple is not Above His Master

A Leadership Insight

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the idea that we, as leaders, must change first to affect change for our households, businesses and ministries. Others will not or cannot change until we do. If we expect greater outcomes, it is on us to drive the change.

We must prepare ourselves for the battle; here are a couple of ways:

Dream Bigger to See Farther!

We must dream bigger dreams and think bigger thoughts according to the limits of God. This causes his super to be added to our natural by faith.

”for all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever.“

Genesis 13:15 KJV

”And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, and houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full; then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.“

Deuteronomy 6:10-12 KJV

Desire Bigger to Create Capacity , Hunger and Thirst!

”The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: But the desire of the righteous shall be granted.“ Proverbs 10:24 KJV

”Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.“

Matthew 5:6 KJV

Get greater Joy for Strength for the Journey!

”Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.“

Nehemiah 8:10 KJV

Break up our fallow ground:

”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

Gird our loins:

”Thou therefore gird up thy loins, and arise, and speak unto them all that I command thee: be not dismayed at their faces, lest I confound thee before them.“ Jeremiah 1:17 KJV

Find instructions in the Word:

”Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; And I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; Yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; For therein do I delight.“ Psalm 119:33-35 KJV

”Blessed be the LORD my strength, Which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight:“Psalm 144:1 KJV

Take Action for Now is the Time:

”(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, And in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)“

2 Corinthians 6:2 KJV

In closing:

As we commit to soaking ourselves in the Word this year, we will see our wounds healed and an abundance of wealth, riches, favour, peace and clarity in our lives.

At the end, we will testify of the transformation that occurred.

Thank you Lord that you said in your word:

”Arise, walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it; for I will give it unto thee.“. Genesis 13:17 KJV

We receive it by faith, in Jesus name.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his Lord.

It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his Lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?“

Matthew 10:24-25 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.10.24-25.KJV