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Restrain Your Voice From Weeping

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought of how we, the leaders, need to find ways to comfort the people when tragedy strikes. We have to be full of the holy spirit, rich with empathy and prayerfully reassuring to people at their darkest point. That is LOVE based leadership.

As leaders, it is vital that we recognize when people are hurting as did the Lord:

“Thus says the Lord, “A voice is heard in Ramah, Lamentation (songs of mourning) and bitter weeping.

Rachel (Israel) is weeping for her children; She refuses to be comforted for her children, Because they are gone.” [Matt 2:18]”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭31‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Though we experience constant change and the associated emotions of loss, we can still find rest in and reliance on Christ who has been touched by the feelings of our infirmities:

“That which has been is that which will be [again], And that which has been done is that which will be done again. So there is nothing new under the sun.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““I am the Alpha and the Omega [the Beginning and the End],” says the Lord God, “Who is [existing forever] and Who was [continually existing in the past] and Who is to come, the Almighty [the Omnipotent, the Ruler of all].” [Is 9:6]”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

We must guide ourselves and others to places of shelter during the storms:

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will remain secure and rest in the shadow of the Almighty [whose power no enemy can withstand].

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.

You will not be afraid of the terror of night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, Nor of the destruction (sudden death) that lays waste at noon.

A thousand may fall at your side And ten thousand at your right hand, But danger will not come near you.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Even though I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort and console me.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In closing, let us be encouraged as we do “the work” of comforting Gods people in this season:

“Therefore if there is any encouragement and comfort in Christ [as there certainly is in abundance], if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship [that we share] in the Spirit, if [there is] any [great depth of] affection and compassion,

make my joy complete by being of the same mind, having the same love [toward one another], knit together in spirit, intent on one purpose [and living a life that reflects your faith and spreads the gospel—the good news regarding salvation through faith in Christ].”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“May his name be praised, now and forever. From the east to the west praise the name of the Lord!”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭113‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭GNT‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Thus says the Lord, “A voice is heard in Ramah, Lamentation (songs of mourning) and bitter weeping.

Rachel (Israel) is weeping for her children; She refuses to be comforted for her children, Because they are gone.” [Matt 2:18]

Thus says the Lord, “Restrain your voice from weeping And your eyes from tears, For your work will be rewarded,” says the Lord; “

And your children will return from the enemy’s land.

“There is [confident] hope for your future,” says the Lord; “Your children will come back to their own country.

“I have surely heard Ephraim (Israel) moaning and grieving, ‘You have chastised me, and I was chastised,

Like a bull unaccustomed to the yoke or an untrained calf; Bring me back that I may be restored, For You are the Lord my God.

‘After I turned away [from You], I repented; After I was instructed, I struck my thigh [in remorse];

I was ashamed and even humiliated Because I carried the disgrace of my youth [as a nation].’

“Is Ephraim My dear son? Is he a darling and beloved child? For as often as I have spoken against him, I certainly still remember him.

Therefore My affection is renewed and My heart longs for him; I will surely have mercy on him,” says the Lord.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭31‬:‭15‬-‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jer.31.15-20.AMP

For I Shall Yet Praise Him

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and my heart and mind was captured by this phrase- “for I shall yet praise Him”.

As leaders, there are many moments along this leadership journey that we hit a “rough patch” or sometimes a season of sequential rough patches where we are caught off guard.

Even then, the scripture declares that despite it all, we shall rejoice always in the Lord and shall yet praise Him.

The Bible commands us to:

“Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, gladden yourselves in Him]; again I say, Rejoice! [Ps. 37:4.]”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“IT IS a good and delightful thing to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises [with musical accompaniment] to Your name, O Most High,

To show forth Your loving-kindness in the morning and Your faithfulness by night,”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭92‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

For this, we shall yet praise him!

When doubt tries to come against us, we are reminded that by being on Gods side, we always have options and will prevail because we are never alone. He has our backs!

“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

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

For this, we shall yet praise him!

When we question our worth, scripture reminds us of our value in Gods sight:

“The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

““Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them:”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

For this, we shall yet praise him!

When our peace needs restoration, the joy of the Lord becomes our strength as we turn to and simply trust God:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.

I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.””

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬-‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

For this, we shall yet praise him!

Lastly, when we don’t know what to do, scripture shows us the way forward:

“But I will sing of Your mighty strength and power; yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy and loving-kindness in the morning; for You have been to me a defense (a fortress and a high tower) and a refuge in the day of my distress.

Unto You, O my Strength, I will sing praises; for God is my Defense, my Fortress, and High Tower, the God Who shows me mercy and steadfast love.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭59‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“Let the saints be joyful in the glory and beauty [which God confers upon them]; let them sing for joy upon their beds.

Let the high praises of God be in their throats and a two-edged sword in their hands, [Heb. 4:12; Rev. 1:16.]

To wreak vengeance upon the nations and chastisement upon the peoples,

To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,

To execute upon them the judgment written. He [the Lord] is the honor of all His saints. Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭149‬:‭5‬-‭9‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“For the weapons of our warfare are not physical [weapons of flesh and blood], but they are mighty before God for the overthrow and destruction of strongholds,”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭4‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Amen

For this, we shall yet praise him!

“Let every thing that hath breath Praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭150‬:‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Vindicate me, O God, And plead my cause against an ungodly nation;

Oh, deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man!

For You are the God of my strength; Why do You cast me off?

Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

Oh, send out Your light and Your truth!

Let them lead me; Let them bring me to Your holy hill And to Your tabernacle.

Then I will go to the altar of God, To God my exceeding joy;

And on the harp I will praise You, O God, my God.

Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me?

Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him,

The help of my countenance and my God.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭43‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/114/psa.43.1-5.NKJV

Careful Planning

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and again the thought of how vital it is that, we leaders, make time for strategic planning on a consistent basis to ensure we are efficient and effective in achieving desired results.

The bible reminds us that:

“Careful planning puts you ahead in the long run; hurry and scurry puts you further behind.” Proverbs‬ ‭21‬:‭5‬ ‭MSG‬‬

There are many leaders who create five year strategic plans which align to their vision statement and there are others who prefer a three year model.

No matter our model, each year, we must ensure that our “lens” is clear and our hearts are ready to receive direction from the Lord.

It is a powerful reflection exercise to dissect our performance/ results from last year – often yielding valuable insights. Some reflective questions are:

What went well?

What did we learn (as oppose to what went wrong)?

What did we struggle with implementing/ achieving?

Why did we experience these outcome?

What are new skills, behaviors and relationships required to thrive this year?

We should celebrate our successes while understanding our challenges!

This process reveals more of ourselves and highlights the skills we need to acquire or refine for greater impact.

Selah

Next, we must prepare our hearts and minds to envision our next year.

If we dreamed without limits, what would we dare to dream? Let’s allow the scriptures to embolden our possibility thinking.

“Delight thyself also in the LORD; And he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” ‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬ ‭KJV‬‬

What would success look like one year from now?

Anything is possible to him who believeth and is in line with the thoughts and purposes of God!

“And Jesus said, [You say to Me], If You can do anything? [Why,] all things can be (are possible) to him who believes!” ‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“Better is a little with righteousness (uprightness in every area and relation and right standing with God) than great revenues with injustice. [Ps. 37:16; Prov. 15:16.]

Amen

So, let us seek the Holy Spirit for direction, wisdom and strategies to achieve our prayerfully desired goals so that Jesus can test them, bless them and multiply them for His glory.

The Bible tells us:

“A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure. [Ps. 37:23; Prov. 20:24; Jer. 10:23.]” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“The steps of a [good] man are directed and established by the Lord when He delights in his way [and He busies Himself with his every step].

Though he falls, he shall not be utterly cast down, for the Lord grasps his hand in support and upholds him.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Finally, as we pursue our dreams, document and execute our plans with [uncompromisingly] righteousness, we can boldly move forward and lead so that God’s kingdom is established and He gets all the glory!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Through skillful and godly Wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation], And by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“Wise people are builders — they build families, businesses, communities. And through intelligence and insight their enterprises are established and endure. Because of their skilled leadership, the hearts of people are filled with the treasures of wisdom and the pleasures of spiritual wealth.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭TPT‬‬

“It takes wisdom to build a house, and understanding to set it on a firm foundation; It takes knowledge to furnish its rooms with fine furniture and beautiful draperies.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭MSG

Perfect and Complete, Needing Nothing

I was reflecting and meditating on this scripture this morning and was considering “what does it mean?” or “what could this mean?” in our lives today, as leaders.

We exist in a world where things go wrong: things break and are in disrepair, important tasks are unfinished, relationships can get strained and important goals have yet to get started.

In short, life can be a bit disorganized, challenging and disjointed draining us emotionally, physically and even spiritually.

So, how can we still grasp hold of and move toward the promises of god?

“You will know that your home is safe. When you survey your possessions, nothing will be missing.”

‭‭Job‬ ‭5‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“…for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“….I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬B KJV‬‬

Selah

Many of these items(burdens) we carry are usually due to lack of clarity on our desired outcome, resource constraints or the perception that the energy required to address the issue is too great.

Sometimes we still incorrectly believe that “we” need to solve the issue “our” way vs simply letting go and yielding to God’s way.

The good news is we still have the authority to decide:

“Truly I tell you, whatever you forbid and declare to be improper and unlawful on earth must be what is already forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit and declare proper and lawful on earth must be what is already permitted in heaven.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭18‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

By leveraging our authority in addition to the power of prayer, we can unleash heavenly forces to come to our aide.

Wholeness is a decision away for us!

Whatever the challenge, let’s just leave it at the cross.

This process will mean something different from each of us but I want to encourage each of us, today, to spend time to identify that “issue”and then “name it”!

Since we can call the name that is above every name, Jesus, we can bring every issue into captivity and under our feet.

Our decision to do so today shall bring the issue to closure and we can again walk in the abundant life.

“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

No longer will we be broken and not whole!

In Jesus Name

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2co.9.8.AMP

But I Have Prayed [especially] For You

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

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

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

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

That is ultimate leadership in action.

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

Yet in the Passion translation, Jesus says:

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

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

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

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

Scripture tells us:

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭Job‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬-‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

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

‭‭Job‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

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

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

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

“After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace [who imparts His blessing and favor], who called you to His own eternal glory in Christ, will Himself complete, confirm, strengthen, and establish you [making you what you ought to be].

To Him be dominion (power, authority, sovereignty) forever and ever. Amen.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

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

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

‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭31‬-‭34‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

Create in me

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that, as leaders, it is guaranteed that we will experience disappointment and hurt at some point along our journey.

The hurt can be from missed expectations of those close to us or dismay as we actively observe the hearts and actions of man.

When these times come, we need to petition the Lord to:

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

It is not unusual – and even expected- that we leaders have a godly standard against which we measure our thoughts and actions as well as those of others.

Unfortunately, we can become despondent to the point where anger or disappointment can literally grip our spirits and steal our peace and joy.

I am grateful that the Word of the Lord offers a way out:

“He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow]. [Ps 34:18; Is 57:15; 61:1; Luke 4:18]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭147‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

I am also grateful that the God we serve desires to actively engage with us and fight for us:

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

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As we trust that God is working things out for our good, we have the burden and responsibility to walk in love. Scripture reminds us:

“Hatred stirs up strife, But love covers and overwhelms all transgressions [forgiving and overlooking another’s faults].”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭10‬:‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Lord, we surrender all to you!

In closing, this is my prayer:

“It is my own eager expectation and hope, that [looking toward the future] I will not disgrace myself nor be ashamed in anything, but that with courage and the utmost freedom of speech, even now as always, Christ will be magnified and exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let us be open to Gods handy work as he wants to heal us:

“He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow]. [Ps 34:18; Is 57:15; 61:1; Luke 4:18]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭147‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Now thanks be to God for His indescribable gift [which is precious beyond words]!”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

Do not cast me away from Your presence And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation And sustain me with a willing spirit.

Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners shall be converted and return to You.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.51.10-13.AMP

By Your [patient] Endurance

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

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures with a heavy and grieving heart and was seeking for answers because it feels like we’re living in a time where chaos is the norm.

But, I am grateful that the Word of god reassures us that these times are expected and we shall be protected if we endure and faint not.

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We are living in a time where there are wars on top of wars: territory wars, cultural wars, values wars, truth vs lies wars, inter/ intra family wars and competitive market wars.

But Christ, the solution, has come that we may have righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.

In Him, we shall prevail and destruction is not our portion, if we heed his voice:

“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.

You will not be afraid of the terror of night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day,

Nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, Nor of the destruction (sudden death) that lays waste at noon.

A thousand may fall at your side And ten thousand at your right hand, But danger will not come near you.

You will only [be a spectator as you] look on with your eyes And witness the [divine] repayment of the wicked [as you watch safely from the shelter of the Most High].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭4‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Love – not hate, will always prevail even in what seems like our darkest hour.

“The Lord your God is supreme over all gods and over all powers. He is great and mighty, and he is to be obeyed. He does not show partiality, and he does not accept bribes.

Have reverence for the Lord your God and worship only him. Be faithful to him and make your promises in his name alone.

Praise him—he is your God, and you have seen with your own eyes the great and astounding things that he has done for you.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭10‬:‭17‬, ‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭GNT‬‬

Even in the midst of the turmoil, chaos, confusion and anguish, I hear the spirit saying that, we leaders, should think on these things:

“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

Selah

Leaders, let us follow this scriptural action plan for success in this season:

“So, as God’s own chosen people, who are holy [set apart, sanctified for His purpose] and well-beloved [by God Himself], put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience [which has the power to endure whatever injustice or unpleasantness comes, with good temper];

bearing graciously with one another, and willingly forgiving each other if one has a cause for complaint against another; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so should you forgive.

Beyond all these things put on and wrap yourselves in [unselfish] love, which is the perfect bond of unity [for everything is bound together in agreement when each one seeks the best for others].

Let the peace of Christ [the inner calm of one who walks daily with Him] be the controlling factor in your hearts [deciding and settling questions that arise].

To this peace indeed you were called as members in one body [of believers]. And be thankful [to God always].

Let the [spoken] word of Christ have its home within you [dwelling in your heart and mind—permeating every aspect of your being] as you teach [spiritual things] and admonish and train one another with all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

Whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus [and in dependence on Him], giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬-‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Share with a friend!

“Then Jesus told them, “Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. [2 Chr 15:6; Is 19:2]

There will be violent earthquakes, and in various places famines and [deadly and devastating] pestilences (plagues, epidemics); and there will be terrible sights and great signs from heaven. “

But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, turning you over to the synagogues and prisons, and bringing you before kings and governors for My name’s sake. [Matt 10:19-22; Mark 13:11-13]

This will be a time and an opportunity for you to testify [about Me].

So make up your minds not to prepare beforehand to defend yourselves;

for I will give you [skillful] words and wisdom which none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute.

But you will be betrayed and handed over even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death,

and you will be continually hated by everyone because of [your association with] My name.

But not a hair of your head will perish. [1 Sam 14:45]

By your [patient] endurance [empowered by the Holy Spirit] you will gain your souls.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭21‬:‭10‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.21.19.AMP

The Vision Regarding

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

I was reflecting on these powerful scriptures and the thought that often, we leaders, have multiple visions we are pursuing.

Though we are experiencing breakthroughs in this season because of our past decisions to mix our faith with past visions, our success is guaranteed in the midst of trouble and famines only when we keep god first.

“In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“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.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

It is important that we maintain visions for each important area of our lives: our faith, our health, our marriages, our family, our finances, and our community.

With objectives of Achievement, Restoration or the Pursuit of God; each vision has their own distinct paths, timelines, and urgencies but the common success habit is maintaining the daily sacrifice of prayer and worship unto the Lord.

We see the consequential evidence in scripture of the children of Israel’s struggle in this area. Let us learn from their mistakes.

“Because of the transgression [of God’s people—their irreverence and ungodliness] the host will be given over to the wicked horn, along with the regular sacrifice; and righteousness and truth will be flung to the ground, and the horn will do as it pleases [by divine permission] and prosper.”

‭‭Daniel‬ ‭8‬:‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Finally, vision creation can follow two approaches: a defined end model or a more iterative process of flow. Either approach can be successful and both demand use of short term “milestones of success”.

Each approach also has similar process steps:

Dream bigger.
Decide what you want.
Hear from God.
Develop a faith action plan.
Confess the Word in faith.
Focus on daily execution.

Now is our time to reflect and decide what impactful visions we have for this next season and how we can bring greater honor to the kingdom of God.

Scripture validates that we are made for signs and wonders and nothing is to hard for God:

“Listen carefully, I and the children whom the Lord has given me are for signs and wonders [that will occur] in Israel from the Lord of hosts, who dwells on Mount Zion.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭8‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Is anything too hard for the Lord? …” Genesis‬ ‭18‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When we do this, we know that the “the sanctuary will be cleansed and properly restored.””

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Share with a friend!

“Out of one of them (Antiochus IV Epiphanes) came forth a rather small horn [but one of irreverent presumption and profane pride] which grew exceedingly powerful toward the south, toward the east, and toward the Beautiful Land (Israel). [Dan 8:23]

And [in my vision] this horn grew up to the host of heaven, and caused some of the host and some of the stars to fall to the earth, and it trampled on them.

Indeed, it magnified itself to be equal with the Commander of the host [of heaven]; and it took away from Him the daily sacrifice (burnt offering), and the place of His sanctuary was thrown down (profaned).

Because of the transgression [of God’s people—their irreverence and ungodliness] the host will be given over to the wicked horn, along with the regular sacrifice; and righteousness and truth will be flung to the ground, and the horn will do as it pleases [by divine permission] and prosper.

Then I heard a holy one (angel) speaking, and another holy one said to the one who was speaking, “How much time will be required to complete the vision regarding the regular sacrifice, the transgression that brings horror, and the trampling underfoot of both the sanctuary and the host [of the people]?” [Luke 21:24]

He said to me, “For 2,300 evenings and mornings; then the sanctuary will be cleansed and properly restored.””

‭‭Daniel‬ ‭8‬:‭9‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/dan.8.13.AMP

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:

‭‭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