equip – Vision Multiplier International, LLC

We Have Come to Know

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of how we, the leaders, must continue to learn of Christ until we get to the wonderful place of knowing (with absolute certainty) that He is the way, the truth and the life – our all and all!

The Bible tells us:

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.””

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As leaders, we know that everyone who follows us does not always agree with us: sometimes because their understanding of the situation is at a different level or maybe they may feel that a different tactic is warranted to achieve the outcome.

All said, they either choose to engage because of buying into the mission or your leadership position or not.

We see in the Bible where some of the disciples chose to leave:

“But [still] there are some of you who do not believe and have faith.”

For Jesus knew from the beginning who did not believe, and who would betray Him.

And He was saying, “This is the reason why I have told you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted him [that is, unless he is enabled to do so] by the Father.”

As a result of this many of His disciples abandoned Him, and no longer walked with Him.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭64‬-‭66‬ ‭AMP‬‬

On the other hand, team or family dynamics really can shift and grow to the point where members are finishing each other’s sentences and thoughts because of a deeper understanding, respect and interconnectedness.

Scripture says it this way:

“We have believed and confidently trusted, and [even more] we have come to know [by personal observation and experience] that You are the Holy One of God [the Christ, the Son of the living God].””

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭69‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The truth is that conflict and adversity will reveal where the team or family or community really is!

Selah

The divinely given words we speak and decisions we make can serve as a two edged sword which will reveal truths and will likely cause conflict with what is believed, accepted and practiced as operating norms today – but it does not negate their validity!

So how do we move forward?

We must first realize that people are not our enemy and strive to always speak the truth in love.

“Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching.

We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.

Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Secondly, we recognize that leadership is ordained by God for the edifying of the saints, building strong homes and communities and making a kingdom impact.

The Bible say it this way:

“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬-‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Furthermore, you shall select from all the people competent men who [reverently] fear God, men of truth, those who hate dishonest gain; you shall place these over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, it is my prayer that we recommit today to studying Gods word and seeking His heart until we can be like Peter and declare “we have come to know that Christ is the Son of the living God”!

“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

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭69‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“But [still] there are some of you who do not believe and have faith.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who did not believe, and who would betray Him.

And He was saying, “This is the reason why I have told you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted him [that is, unless he is enabled to do so] by the Father.”

As a result of this many of His disciples abandoned Him, and no longer walked with Him.

So Jesus said to the twelve [disciples], “You do not want to leave too, do you?”

Simon Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You [alone] have the words of eternal life [you are our only hope].

We have believed and confidently trusted, and [even more] we have come to know [by personal observation and experience] that You are the Holy One of God [the Christ, the Son of the living God].””

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭64‬-‭69‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ljhn.6.66-69.AMP

Prayer

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 grow in understanding to know that prayer is the most important weapon we take with us into the boardrooms or any situation.

The Bible tells us:

“…The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) is able to accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power].”

‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭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

““ Ask and keep on asking and it will be given to you; seek and keep on seeking and you will find; knock and keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you. [Luke 11:9-13] For everyone who keeps on asking receives, and he who keeps on seeking finds, and to him who keeps on knocking, it will be opened.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

As we grow our faith muscles through daily praying the word, we will come into the revelation of what is possible and then can come boldly to the throne of grace!

Let us pray continuously as we wrestle with principalities:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, pray continually for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be honored [triumphantly celebrated and glorified], just as it was with you;”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, I declare and decree that this is our prayer:

“The Lord is my light and my salvation— Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the refuge and fortress of my life— Whom shall I dread?

When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, My adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell.

Though an army encamp against me, My heart will not fear; Though war arise against me, Even in this I am confident.

One thing I have asked of the Lord, and that I will seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord [in His presence] all the days of my life, To gaze upon the beauty [the delightful loveliness and majestic grandeur] of the Lord And to meditate in His temple. [Ps 16:11; 18:6; 65:4; Luke 2:37]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.

And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.”

‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/jas.5.16-18.KJV

Gather Up The Fragments

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that our perspective as the leaders, and our posture of expectations determines whether we see opportunity or failure in our lives.

It is possible to be rowing in the sea of opportunity and abundance but all we may see are problems and issues.

This is a matter of perspective!

We serve the God of more than enough: whether ideas, insights, revelation, favor, grace or impact.

We serve the god who said that All things are possible.

The Bible encourages 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

And to say:

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a right and steadfast spirit within me.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

As we renew our mind in the word, the Word will help us “to see and to not despise” what may feel like small beginnings.

“Then Elisha prayed and said, “Lord, please, open his eyes that he may see.” And the Lord opened the servants eyes and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire surrounding Elisha.”

‭‭2 Kings‬ ‭6‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.”

‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

In the scripture example, we see where Christ blessed the seed of the lad and it created a harvest of overflow but to the natural eyes, they just saw “crumbs”; however, to those walking by faith, it was a harvest of abundant overflow.

Fragments are our overflow if we have the eyes to recognize them, receive or collect them, and enjoy them!

OMG

God in His infinite and sovereign wisdom can use any situation to meet our needs and to bless us. His methods may seem foolish to man and it may confound the wise; nevertheless, He is not constrained and can use as few or many ways to accomplish his will:

Scripture says it this way:

“But God has selected [for His purpose] the foolish things of the world to shame the wise [revealing their ignorance], and God has selected [for His purpose] the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong [revealing their frailty].

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 ‭1‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.”

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

In conclusion, we must continue to trust and keep our eyes on God for:

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“For His divine power has bestowed on us [absolutely] everything necessary for [a dynamic spiritual] life and godliness, through true and personal knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse; therefore, you shall choose life in order that you may live,

you and your descendants, by loving the Lord your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding closely to Him; for He is your life [your good life, your abundant life, your fulfillment] and the length of your days, that you may live in the land which the Lord promised (swore) to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.””

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭30‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

The harvest may not come the way we expect but it does not negate the fact that it is our harvest!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks, He distributed them to those who were seated; the same also with the fish, as much as they wanted.

When they had eaten enough, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the leftover pieces so that nothing will be lost.”

So they gathered them up, and they filled twelve large baskets with pieces from the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten.

When the people saw the sign (attesting miracle) that He had done, they began saying, “This is without a doubt the promised Prophet who is to come into the world!” [Deut 18:15, 18; John 1:21; Acts 3:22]”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭11‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.6.12-14.AMP

All Without God’s Guidance is Vanity

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

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures and was moved in my spirit with the thought that without gods guidance and presence in our lives, it will all be for nothing – vanity.

We, the leaders, must strive daily to hear a word from the Lord and to act on the unctions of the Holy Ghost.

Though there will be difficult days ahead, scripture tells us that we are to be wise:

““Listen carefully: I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; so be wise as serpents, and innocent as doves [have no self-serving agenda]. [Gen 3:1]”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

We must truly also know and believe that:

“Through [skillful and godly] wisdom a house [a life, a home, a family] is built, And by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation], And by knowledge its rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

A wise man is strong, And a man of knowledge strengthens his power; [Prov 21:22; Eccl 9:16] For by wise guidance you can wage your war, And in an abundance of [wise] counselors there is victory and safety.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭3‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

But the Bible tells us that our success only will come when we actively seek wisdom:

““Get [skillful and godly] wisdom! Acquire understanding [actively seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical interpretation]!

Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth. “Do not turn away from her (Wisdom) and she will guard and protect you; Love her, and she will watch over you.

“The beginning of wisdom is: Get [skillful and godly] wisdom [it is preeminent]! And with all your acquiring, get understanding [actively seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical interpretation]. [James 1:5]

“Prize wisdom [and exalt her], and she will exalt you; She will honor you if you embrace her. “She will place on your head a garland of grace; She will present you with a crown of beauty and glory.””

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭4‬:‭5‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

When we have difficult decisions to make, we can look for biblical mentors to guide us – like Solomon and Isaiah. This is their advice:

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭12‬:‭13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

““Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher. “All [that is done without God’s guidance] is vanity (futility).” [Eccl 1:2; Rom 8:20]”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭12‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Seek the Lord while He may be found; Call on Him [for salvation] while He is near. Let the wicked leave (behind) his way And the unrighteous man his thoughts; And let him return to the Lord, And He will have compassion (mercy) on him, And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Now that is good advice!

Selah

We must firmly believe that Christ is the answer to whatever problems we are facing. His directions are timeless and always relevant:

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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 ‭11‬:‭28‬-‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.””

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“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

In closing, when we do our part and walk by faith, God promises to do His part:

“…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 ‭12‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen and Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher. “All [that is done without God’s guidance] is vanity (futility).” [Eccl 1:2; Rom 8:20]

Furthermore, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; and he pondered and searched out and arranged many proverbs.

The Preacher sought to find delightful words, even to write correctly words of truth.

The words of the wise are like [prodding] goads, and these collected sayings are [firmly fixed in the mind] like well-driven nails; they are given by one Shepherd. [Ezek 37:24]

But beyond this my son, [about going further than the words given by one Shepherd], be warned: the writing of many books is endless [so do not believe everything you read], and excessive study and devotion to books is wearying to the body.

When all has been heard, the end of the matter is: fear God [worship Him with awe-filled reverence, knowing that He is almighty God] and keep His commandments, for this applies to every person.

For God will bring every act to judgment, every hidden and secret thing, whether it is good or evil. [Matt 12:36; Acts 17:30, 31; Rom 2:16; 1 Cor 4:5]”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭12‬:‭8‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ecc.12.14.AMP

Behold, They are One [Unified] People

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the idea of how powerful we, the leaders, can be when we are on one accord with man and with God. When achieved, we have no limits!

One of the greatest tools we can use to ensure alignment is language as our success is predicated on speaking the language of those around us and changing our dialect to be “person” specific as we are lead by the holy ghost.

The Bible says it this way:

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is For brothers to dwell together in unity!

It is like the precious oil [of consecration] poured on the head, Coming down on the beard, Even the beard of Aaron, Coming down upon the edge of his [priestly] robes [consecrating the whole body]. [Ex 30:25, 30]

It is like the dew of [Mount] Hermon Coming down on the hills of Zion; For there the Lord has commanded the blessing: life forevermore.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭133‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

The second critical step to achieving the state of “one accord” occurs when we ensure our actions are in obedience to directions and not being driven by our desires.

We see here where the people at Babble were in one accord in language; however, the Bible says they were disobedient with the commandment given to Noah – their ancestor.

“And God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭9‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“They said, “Come, let us build a city for ourselves, and a tower whose top will reach into the heavens, and let us make a [famous] name for ourselves, so that we will not be scattered [into separate groups] and be dispersed over the surface of the entire earth [as the Lord instructed].” [Gen 9:1]”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭11‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As leaders, we can deduce and must ensure that our actions and motives are in alignment with God and our leadership because disobedience still has consequences.

“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

Selah

I am grateful that the Bible also gives us a good example to study and model in Abram.

Scripture tells us:

“Now [in Haran] the Lord had said to Abram, “Go away from your country, And from your relatives And from your father’s house, To the land which I will show you; [Heb 11:8-10]

And I will make you a great nation, And I will bless you [abundantly], And make your name great (exalted, distinguished);

And you shall be a blessing [a source of great good to others];

And I will bless (do good for, benefit) those who bless you,

And I will curse [that is, subject to My wrath and judgment] the one who curses (despises, dishonors, has contempt for) you.

And in you all the families (nations) of the earth will be blessed.” [Gal 3:8]

So Abram departed [in faithful obedience] as the Lord had directed him; and Lot [his nephew] left with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he left Haran.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, let’s reflect on how we can achieve being on one accord and in alignment – understanding that our foundation is rooted in love for ourselves and others.

By being intentional, we are well able to adjust our communication approach to be “other” focused vs “me” focused.

When we communicate with others, we speak using three methods: Auditory- with our spoken words; Visual – with our body language; and, Kinesthetic – with our actions.

To the degree all three methods are aligned, we, the leaders, maximize communication success and will have good success.

The consequences of not making these adjustments may result in misalignment, confusion and strife!

That is not our desire nor our portion, in Jesus Name!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Now the whole earth spoke one language and used the same words (vocabulary).

And as people journeyed eastward, they found a plain in the land of Shinar and they settled there. [Gen 10:10]

They said one to another, “Come, let us make bricks and fire them thoroughly [in a kiln, to harden and strengthen them].” So they used brick for stone [as building material], and they used tar (bitumen, asphalt) for mortar.

They said, “Come, let us build a city for ourselves, and a tower whose top will reach into the heavens, and let us make a [famous] name for ourselves, so that we will not be scattered [into separate groups] and be dispersed over the surface of the entire earth [as the Lord instructed].” [Gen 9:1]

Now the Lord came down to see the city and the tower which the sons of men had built. And the Lord said, “Behold, they are one [unified] people, and they all have the same language.

This is only the beginning of what they will do [in rebellion against Me], and now no evil thing they imagine they can do will be impossible for them.

Come, let Us (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) go down and there confuse and mix up their language, so that they will not understand one another’s speech.”

So the Lord scattered them abroad from there over the surface of the entire earth; and they stopped building the city.

Therefore the name of the city was Babel—because there the Lord confused the language of the entire earth; and from that place the Lord scattered and dispersed them over the surface of all the earth.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/gen.11.9.AMP

Unless It is Something He Sees

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that leadership is taught through demonstration and emulation as our deeds carry more weight than our words!

Great leadership starts with having a godly image of leadership and striving daily to become that person:

“Then God said, “Let Us (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) make man in Our image, according to Our likeness [not physical, but a spiritual personality and moral likeness]; and let them have complete authority over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the cattle, and over the entire earth, and over everything that creeps and crawls on the earth.” [Ps 104:30; Heb 1:2; 11:3]”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬ ‭AMP‬‬

What we see and emulate, we will become!

The Bible gives us Jesus as the best example of leadership that we must follow:

“Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

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 ‭5‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Great leaders help expand visions, solutions and possibility thinking:

“Elisha answered, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “Lord, please, open his eyes that he may see.”

And the Lord opened the servants eyes and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire surrounding Elisha.”

‭‭2 Kings‬ ‭6‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Lastly, we find modern day examples of servant leadership in Deacons. Scripture identifies key traits we should expect to see and emulate:

Therefore, brothers, choose from among you seven men with good reputations [men of godly character and moral integrity], full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task. But we will [continue to] devote ourselves [steadfastly] to prayer and to the ministry of the word.””

‭‭Acts‬ ‭6‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Deacons likewise must be men worthy of respect [honorable, financially ethical, of good character], not double-tongued [speakers of half-truths], not addicted to wine, not greedy for dishonest gain, but upholding and fully understanding the mystery [that is, the true doctrine] of the [Christian] faith with a clear conscience [resulting from behavior consistent with spiritual maturity].

These men must first be tested; then if they are found to be blameless and beyond reproach [in their Christian lives], let them serve as deacons. Women must likewise be worthy of respect, not malicious gossips, but self-controlled, [thoroughly] trustworthy in all things.”

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, our job is to meditate on the Word and follow the examples of godly leadership. When we do this, we will grow:

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall read [and meditate on] it day and night, so that you may be careful to do [everything] in accordance with all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will be successful.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I assure you and most solemnly say to you, anyone who believes in Me [as Savior] will also do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these [in extent and outreach], because I am going to the Father.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

By making these adjustments, we have assurances that we will be blessed and stable:

“Blessed [fortunate, prosperous, and favored by God] is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked [following their advice and example], Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit [down to rest] in the seat of scoffers (ridiculers).

But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night. [Rom 13:8-10; Gal 3:1-29; 2 Tim 3:16]

And he will be like a tree firmly planted [and fed] by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season; Its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers [and comes to maturity]. [Jer 17:7, 8]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

It is my prayer that we continue to grow our leadership acumen, Gods way. In Jesus name.

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“So Jesus answered them by saying, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself [of His own accord], unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever things the Father does, the Son [in His turn] also does in the same way.

For the Father dearly loves the Son and shows Him everything that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will be filled with wonder.”

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.5.19-20.AMP

He Refreshes and Restores My Soul

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning with my thoughts centered on how we, the leaders, must joyfully pay the price to be the shepherd of God’s precious seed- His people. We must choose to be open, available, disciplined, and “other” centered – being sensitive to the needs of those we lead and influence.

This is only accomplished through a life of sacrifice and prayer – with prayer being THE strategy and differentiator!

Whether the mountain seems small or large, we, the leaders, choose to do the necessary work to build up our faith until the mountain becomes a molehill- in Jesus name.

The Bible anchors our faith when it tells us:

“And they overcame and conquered him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, for they did not love their life and renounce their faith even when faced with death. [Zech 3:1-10; Rom 8:33, 34]”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Then He said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Then Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at God.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““For I am the Lord, I do not change [but remain faithful to My covenant with you]; that is why you, O sons of Jacob, have not come to an end.”

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

1 Samuel 26:23

The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness, for the LORD gave you into my hand today, and I would not put out my hand against the LORD’s anointed

Selah

How can we pray believing He is God? Come into His presence with boldness knowing Jesus is our advocate!

“….But the righteous are bold as a lion.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Jesus came up and said to them, “All authority (all power of absolute rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭34‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭20‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower: The righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, lets us lift each other up in prayer- interceding until God’s glory is revealed, burdens are removed and the joy is restored:

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and restored.

The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) is able to accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power].”

‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; And uphold me with thy free spirit.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭51‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be A Blessing!

“The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], [Ezek 34:11-31] I shall not want.

He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still and quiet waters. [Rev 7:17]

He refreshes and restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.23.1-3.AMP

The Son Can Do Nothing of Himself

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the idea of the criticality of delegated authority for scalable growth, which demands that, we the leaders, stay in alignment with those in authority – whether God or with man.

There is an inherent level of trust and accompanying expectations that we, the leaders, will faithfully execute on our granted authority to achieve the priorities of the granting leader- no matter how difficult the task or road.

There is also a certain “discipline code” that is expected – within which we find order, peace and clarity as a unit.

Communication flows reinforce the rules of the road, the organizational values, the organizational priories and the measures of success.

Scripture describes it best in the example of the Centurion:

“But the centurion replied to Him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have You come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed.

For I also am a man subject to authority [of a higher rank], with soldiers subject to me; and I say to one, ‘Go!’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this!’ and he does it.”

Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go; it will be done for you as you have believed.” And the servant was restored to health at that very hour.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭8‬:‭8‬-‭9‬, ‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Another biblical example is with Jesus when He says He and His Father are one:

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

I and my Father are one.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭27‬-‭30‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

So, the question we, the leaders face is, How do we tactically execute this alignment plan? Here are some thoughts:

Proactive managing of expectations: we must proactively assess whether our actions align with the explicit and implicit expectations of those in authority.
Learning, documenting and executing daily adjustments will position us for success; however, it may not guarantee our success.
Energy management: navigating the mental, physical and emotional resistance of change (whether small or large) is necessary. It can become a distraction if it persists. We must overcome it.
Lastly, we must relentlessly measure our success with our fruit (results):

“Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭16‬-‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In conclusions, let us be known as leaders who are diligent and focused on the ethical and legal priorities of those in authority:

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.

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 ‭1‬:‭5‬, ‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

For the Father dearly loves the Son and shows Him everything that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will be filled with wonder.

Just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life [and allows them to live on], even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes.

For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgment [that is, the prerogative of judging] to the Son [placing it entirely into His hands],

so that all will give honor (reverence, homage) to the Son just as they give honor to the Father. [In fact] the one who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who has sent Him.”

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭19‬-‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.5.20.AMP

The Invalid…The Man

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning with a grieving heart and the thought that, we the leaders, must be reminded and believe that when Jesus comes into our situation – things change.

We may be in a season of significant change or even loss; however, it is in these moments we must work harder to hold onto our faith foundation. – the answer still is Christ, and Christ alone!

“For there is [only] one God, and [only] one Mediator between God and mankind, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom [a substitutionary sacrifice to atone] for all, the testimony given at the right and proper time.”

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG

What we do know in scripture is that Jesus has already made provision for us:

“Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever— the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬, ‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““Do not let your heart be troubled (afraid, cowardly). Believe [confidently] in God and trust in Him, [have faith, hold on to it, rely on it, keep going and] believe also in Me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬ ‭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

“the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬-‭27‬ ‭ESV‬‬

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭57‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Selah

As we work through the grieving process, we are reminded that the Word of god is true and ever present:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭40‬:‭8‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, grief may not have an expiration date; however, whenever we are ready to let Christ into our circumstances, like the invalid, Christ just asks us if we want to get well:

When Jesus noticed him lying there [helpless], knowing that he had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to get well?”

And when the master speaks, let us rise and be made whole – like the man:

“Jesus said to him, “Get up; pick up your pallet and walk.” Immediately the man was healed and recovered his strength, and picked up his pallet and walked. Now that day was the Sabbath.”

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“In these porticoes lay a great number of people who were sick, blind, lame, withered, [waiting for the stirring of the water;

for an angel of the Lord went down into the pool at appointed seasons and stirred up the water; the first one to go in after the water was stirred was healed of his disease.]

There was a certain man there who had been ill for thirty-eight years.

When Jesus noticed him lying there [helpless], knowing that he had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to get well?”

The invalid answered, “Sir, I have no one to put me in the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am coming [to get into it myself], someone else steps down ahead of me.”

Jesus said to him, “Get up; pick up your pallet and walk.”

Immediately the man was healed and recovered his strength, and picked up his pallet and walked.

Now that day was the Sabbath.

So the Jews kept saying to the man who had been healed, “It is the Sabbath, and you are not permitted to pick up your pallet [because it is unlawful].”

He answered them, “The Man who healed me and gave me back my strength was the

One who said to me, ‘Pick up your pallet and walk.’ ”

They asked him, “Who is the Man who told you, ‘Pick up your pallet and walk’?”

Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had slipped away [unnoticed] since there was a crowd in that place.

Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “See, you are well! Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.””

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭3‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.5.3-14.AMP

But a Time is Coming and is Already Here

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that often, we leaders, can be snared by the traps of the enemy – even when we are trying to do things god’s way.

We can be entrapped with our words spoken in innocence or ignorance and/ or because of past decisions or deeds – even when they are based out of love.

The entrapment can be accompanied by a sense of shame or regret if we allow it to persist. The end game of the enemy is often to have us, the free in Christ, to be bound by condemnation and ineffectiveness. No more!

The Bible tells us that enemy is an accuser of the brethren:

“And the great dragon was thrown down, the age-old serpent who is called the devil and Satan, he who continually deceives and seduces the entire inhabited world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. [Gen 3:1, 14, 15; Zech 3:1; John 13:2; 2 Cor 11:3; Rev 20:8]

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom (dominion, reign) of our God, and the authority of His Christ have come; for the accuser of our [believing] brothers and sisters has been thrown down [at last], he who accuses them and keeps bringing charges [of sinful behavior] against them before our God day and night. [Job 1:6-11]”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

But I am so grateful for the next verse which broke something in my spirit and released all pain and hurt from my soul:

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

The Bible tells us that:

“God is our refuge and strength [mighty and impenetrable], A very present and well-proved help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change And though the mountains be shaken and slip into the heart of the seas,

Though its waters roar and foam, Though the mountains tremble at its roaring. Selah.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When adversity does not feel justified, we still must praise and worship the God of the heavens and the earth. We must worship Him in spirit (love) and in truth.

When we do this, the Holy Spirit empowers us to love those who are liars, back stabbers and who conjur up evil continually.

Scripture reminds us of our journey which helps us be grateful for His mercy:

“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 is our Advocate:

“My little children (believers, dear ones), I am writing you these things so that you will not sin and violate God’s law. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate [who will intercede for us] with the Father: Jesus Christ the righteous [the upright, the just One, who conforms to the Father’s will in every way—purpose, thought, and action].”

‭‭1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Christ is our 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]!””

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, let us surrender and declare that our souls are anchored in the Lord:

“This hope [this confident assurance] we have as an anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whatever pressure bears upon it]—a safe and steadfast hope that enters within the veil [of the heavenly temple, that most Holy Place in which the very presence of God dwells], [Lev 16:2]”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we do, we know that:

“The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold [our refuge, our high tower]. Selah.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“But a time is coming and is already here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit [from the heart, the inner self] and in truth; for the Father seeks such people to be His worshipers.

God is spirit [the Source of life, yet invisible to mankind], and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.””

‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.4.23-24.AMP