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When They Saw It, They Praised God

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the leadership traits that we must posess, and cultivate, as we press forward toward our goals and destiny.

These are the traits of: discernment, persistence, desire, fortitude, and resolve which are observed behaviors we see in blind Bartimaeus.

Sometimes, we may feel like blind Bartimaeus as it relates to our next step or current decisions; but, as we walk through the process with Christ, we have faith that we will be blessed and hope that others will be blessed when God makes us whole- nothing missing and nothing broken.

Leadership lesson #1: Power of discernment

“They told him, Jesus of Nazareth is passing by. And he shouted, saying, Jesus, Son of David, take pity and have mercy on me!”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭37‬-‭38‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

I believe Bartimaeus had to have knowledge or discernment to know that Jesus was the only solution to his problem. He was surrounded by many people but his focus was on just one- Jesus.

So shall we be because critical decisions and situations are well beyond the knowledge and ability of our inner circles and we must outreach to Christ for direction and strategies.

Leadership lesson #2: Ask for help and be persistent in asking for help

“But those who were in front reproved him, telling him to keep quiet; yet he screamed and shrieked so much the more, Son of David, take pity and have mercy on me!”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭39‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

By crying out to Jesus as he alone is our source, we must understand and believe that our visions are being restored as we press in to Christ’s thoughts and ways.

Our persistence and “must have” mindset will cause us to triumph and not become weary.

Leadership lesson #3: Power of desire with fortitude

“What do you want Me to do for you? He said, Lord, let me receive my sight!”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭41‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

We must have an “I will not be denied” mindset and must also be prepared to answer the question of “what do we want?” – with clarity.

Often, we may simply ask for what we need and fail to decide in advance what we actually want!

We have to ask that our eyes are opened to opportunities, relationships, transitions for elevation, and opportunities to make a greater impact while the master grantor is passing by.

Don’t miss it!

Leadership lesson #4: Power of Resolve – eagerly awaiting for God to move

“And Jesus said to him, Receive your sight! Your faith (your trust and confidence that spring from your faith in God) has healed you.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭42‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

This is about training our hearts and our spiritual eyes to expect good outcomes by faith – despite what our natural eyes see.

In conclusion:

We know that because of the power that lives in us, we are influencers and change makers. When we persist and pursue what we want in Christ, miracles will flow.

“And instantly he received his sight and began to follow Jesus, recognizing, praising, and honoring God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭43‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Others will see gods handiwork in us, will be blessed and will praise God for his wondrous and mighty works.

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“As He came near to Jericho, it occurred that a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging.

And hearing a crowd going by, he asked what it meant.

They told him, Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.

And he shouted, saying, Jesus, Son of David, take pity and have mercy on me!

But those who were in front reproved him, telling him to keep quiet; yet he screamed and shrieked so much the more, Son of David, take pity and have mercy on me!

Then Jesus stood still and ordered that he be led to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him,

What do you want Me to do for you? He said, Lord, let me receive my sight!

And Jesus said to him, Receive your sight! Your faith (your trust and confidence that spring from your faith in God) has healed you.

And instantly he received his sight and began to follow Jesus, recognizing, praising, and honoring God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭35‬-‭43‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/8/luk.18.43.AMPC

A Time Appointed

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

This morning, I was reflecting on the scriptures and the thought that as leaders we have to recognize when there is a major shift in our lives and the new season that we are now in. This change could be from an organizational/ strategic change at work or a significant event within our family or with our health. In short a “big event” and we have the eyes to see the shift:

“But blessed [spiritually aware, and favored by God] are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. [Luke 10:23, 24]

I assure you and most solemnly say to you, many prophets and righteous men [who were honorable and in right standing with God] longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭13‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

During moment like these , we must spend time before the Lord for direction, discernment, wisdom, knowledge and grace to meet the moment.

We can expect to receive the right strategy and necessary scriptures to meditate on for reassurance as we worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness.

“Open my eyes, that I may see Wondrous things from Your law. I am a stranger in the earth; Do not hide Your commandments from me. My soul breaks with longing For Your judgments at all times.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Selah

Scripture reminds us that we must stand strong, trust the Word and have faith that all things are working together for our good for we are the called by Christ.

“Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Amen

Recognizing the changing season is necessary for our growth and elevation; however, it does not guarantee we will be comfortable. We will need new spiritual and natural skills for success as our territories are being enlarged. We will need to spend more time in prayer for temperance and direction. We must also walk with confidence and boldness that we are uniquely prepared for this calling and that the Lord is able and will deliver us through this transition!

“Run away from youthful lusts—pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those [believers] who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But have nothing to do with foolish and ignorant speculations [useless disputes over unedifying, stupid controversies], since you know that they produce strife and give birth to quarrels. The servant of the Lord must not participate in quarrels, but must be kind to everyone [even-tempered, preserving peace, and he must be], skilled in teaching, patient and tolerant when wronged.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we succeed, we know and will proclaim: to God be the glory! Amen

My final thoughts and prayers are:

Thank you, Lord for showing us that we are your tools and your vessels to accomplish your mission. We say yes and amen to the calling. We trust you and your process!

“The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever leans on, trusts in, and puts his confidence in the Lord is safe and set on high.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭25‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

By faith, we surrender our wills, our ways, our minds, our mouths and our hearts to you so that you would be magnified.

“God, glorify your name! Yes, your name alone be glorified, not ours. For you are the one who loves us passionately, and you are faithful and true.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭115‬:‭1‬ ‭TPT‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven—

A time to be born and a time to die;

A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. [Heb 9:27]

A time to kill and a time to heal;

A time to tear down and a time to build up.

A time to weep and a time to laugh;

A time to mourn and a time to dance.

A time to throw away stones and a time to gather stones;

A time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing.

A time to search and a time to give up as lost;

A time to keep and a time to throw away.

A time to tear apart and a time to sew together;

A time to keep silent and a time to speak. [Amos 5:13]

A time to love and a time to hate;

A time for war and a time for peace. [Luke 14:26]

What profit is there for the worker from that in which he labors? I have seen the task which God has given to the sons of men with which to occupy themselves.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ecc.3.1-9.AMP

That Your Faith May Not Fail

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

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

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

Proverbs 16:7 AMP

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

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

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

Jeremiah 1:11-12 AMP

Amen

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

“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.

In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”

Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP

God alone is our place of refuge!

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

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

He will cover you and completely protect you with His pinions, And under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and a wall.”

Psalms 91:2-4 AMP

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

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

Psalms 34:19 AMP

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

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

Proverbs 8:17 AMP

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

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

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

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

Psalms 31:3-5 AMP

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

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

Romans 8:28 AMP

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

Deuteronomy 28:7 AMP

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

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

Psalms 91:15 CEV

It is my prayer that our faith fail not!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

Luke 22:32 AMP

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

What Do You Want Me To Do For You?

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures and the story of blind Bartimaeus and how he was sensitive enough to realize that his only hope of healing was through an encounter with Jesus.

As leaders, sometimes we may feel that we are blinded by a situation or a decision. We must also have the mindset that our only way forward is to aggressively pursue Christ, His wisdom and His anointing.

Amen

We are living in a season where trouble is on every hand and many have lost their way.

More than ever, we need to pray for biblical clarity as Christ has already overcome the world and has divine solutions for everything problem we face.

Scripture reminds us:

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]”

John 16:33 AMP

Success in this season will require a heightened level of intensity and focus on what the Lord is saying.

By having the same level of urgency, intensity, purpose and resolve as Bartimaeus, we can overcome whatever is required to achieve the will and purposes of God.

We may need to replace external inputs (media/ opinions) into our spirits with focused meditation on Gods word to hear what the Lord is saying. Being still helps us hear the what, how, and when to take action.

This is our portion and a result of being a son/ daughter of the true and living god.

He still is our shepherd according the Psalms 23:1 and we shall not want!

The righteous have never been forsaken nor their seed begging bread according to Psalms 37:25.

Jesus is still saying, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

Selah

In closing:

“…Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]”

John 14:27 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 and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].” Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP

“But continually encourage one another every day, as long as it is called “Today” [and there is an opportunity], so that none of you will be hardened [into settled rebellion] by the deceitfulness of sin [its cleverness, delusive glamour, and sophistication].” Hebrews 3:13 AMP

Be assured that the hurting world is watching and will inquire: What is it that gives you your confidence, your strength, your patience, your understanding, your direction and your clarity?

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“As He was approaching Jericho [on His way to Jerusalem], it happened that a blind man was sitting beside the road begging. [Matt 20:29-34; Mark 10:46-52] Now when he heard a crowd going by, he began to ask what this was [about]. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.”

So he shouted out, saying, “Jesus, Son of David (Messiah), have mercy on me!”

Those who were leading the way were sternly telling him to keep quiet; but he screamed all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Then Jesus stopped and ordered that the blind man be led to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

He said, “Lord, let me regain my sight!”

Jesus said to him, “Regain your sight; your [personal trust and confident] faith [in Me] has made you well.”

Immediately he regained his sight and began following Jesus, glorifying and praising and honoring God. And all the people, when they saw it, praised God.”

Luke 18:35-43 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.18.35-43.AMP

There Is Nothing Too Difficult

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures and the thought that we serve a great god but we also serve a jealous god. So, as leaders, when we walk into our “Canaan” and enjoy many of gods blessings and deliverance, we must be careful to keep Him as our top priority.

We see several warnings in the scripture:

“Watch yourself so that you do not make a covenant (solemn agreement, treaty) with the inhabitants of the land into which you are going, or it will become a [dangerous] trap among you. But you shall tear down and destroy their [pagan] altars, smash in pieces their [sacred] pillars (obelisks, images) and cut down their Asherim —for you shall not worship any other god; for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous (impassioned) God [demanding what is rightfully and uniquely His]—”

Exodus 34:12-14 AMP

As leaders, we must be ever sensitive to the reality that we are not in this fight alone and we have the god who is the giver of knowledge and understanding with us always. As long as we have God, we can achieve anything.

‘Ah Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! There is nothing too difficult or too wonderful for You…”

Many of us face mountains that seem insurmountable but I am here to remind us that there truly is nothing to difficult for God and he is well able to do it! He says:

““Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is there anything too difficult for Me?””

Jeremiah 32:27 AMP

The Lord was faithful to fulfill his promise to deliver the children of Israel with mighty works of signs and miracles, but they were not equally faithful and consistently built idols to worship. This grieved the Lord.

Scripture says:

great [are You] in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men, to reward or repay each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds;

who set signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, and even to this day [continues to do so] both in Israel and among mankind; and You have made a name for Yourself, as at this day.”

“You brought Your people Israel out of the land of Egypt with signs and wonders, with a strong hand and with an outstretched arm and with great terror; and gave them this land, which You swore to their forefathers to give them, a land [of plenty] flowing with milk and honey.

They entered and took possession of it, but they did not obey Your voice or walk in Your law; they have done nothing of all that You commanded them to do.

Today, we know that we will take possession of our lands and we know that we will prosper in Christ Jesus.

We must also remember that we are always at risk of losing our zeal for god and letting “distractions of life” to be our idols – if we are not careful.

It is my prayer and decree that we will be forever faithful to God!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“”…I prayed to the Lord, saying,

‘Ah Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! There is nothing too difficult or too wonderful for You—

You who show lovingkindness to thousands, but repay the wickedness (sin, guilt) of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them [that is, calling the children to account for the sins of their fathers], O great and mighty God; the Lord of hosts is His name;

great [are You] in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men, to reward or repay each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds;

who set signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, and even to this day [continues to do so] both in Israel and among mankind; and You have made a name for Yourself, as at this day.”

They entered and took possession of it, but they did not obey Your voice or walk in Your law; they have done nothing of all that You commanded them to do.

Therefore You have caused all this disaster and suffering to come upon them.”

Jeremiah 32:16-20 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jer.32.16-23.AMP

Trust in Him

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

I was reflecting this morning and thinking on the idea of the Declaration of Independence.

America was created and founded on its desire to become an independent nation to chart its own course.

The founding fathers’ framework valued and understood the importance of being “one nation under God” – which has unlocked grace and has contributed to our success.

Scripture reminds us:

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

Proverbs 16:7 KJV

As leaders, we must also decide to make God our primary focal point. When we do, the bible tells us that our success and the success of America is assured.

“Uprightness and right standing with God (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation) elevate a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.”

Proverbs 14:34 AMPC

So in reality, our Declaration of Independence was from man; however, the lasting declaration is really one of “Dependency on God”.

That is the real story and the real success principle that we, as leaders, seek – having a thirst for God!

“As a deer gets thirsty for streams of water, I truly am thirsty for you, my God. In my heart, I am thirsty for you, the living God. When will I see your face?” Psalms 42:1-2 CEV

“For in Him we live and move and have our being; as even some of your [own] poets have said, For we are also His offspring.”

Acts 17:28 AMPC

We play a vital roles in steering this ship while here on earth:

“THE EARTH is the Lord’s, and the fullness of it, the world and they who dwell in it. [I Cor. 10:26.]”

Psalm 24:1 AMPC

“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind (declare to be improper and unlawful) on earth must be what is already bound in heaven; and whatever you loose (declare lawful) on earth must be what is already loosed in heaven. [Isa. 22:22.]” Matthew 16:19 AMPC

So as we celebrate the birth of our great nation, let us also celebrate the birth of our great faith in and dependence on God.

“…For my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; My fortress and my defense, I will not be shaken or discouraged. “

Psalms 62:5b-6 AMP

We just need to trust in Him!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“My soul, wait thou only upon God; For my expectation is from him.

He only is my rock and my salvation: He is my defence; I shall not be moved.

In God is my salvation and my glory: The rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

Trust in him at all times; ye people, Pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.”

Psalm 62:5-8 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.62.5-8.KJV

Do It With All Your Might

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning, and the thought that, as leaders, we always have more time demands than time to accomplish tasks. We must be selective with our energy allocation.

Feelings we experience are: a sense of overwhelm, a sense that we’re not good enough for the assignment, or maybe a sense that our current actions are not sufficient.

Deadlines are being missed, we are having issues fitting in the demands of leadership, family, health and or relationships.

It feels impossible to win in all areas.

But I hear the spirit of God saying to us:

“But He said, “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.” [Gen 18:14; Jer 32:17]”

Luke 18:27 AMP

Amen

I am so grateful that we serve a true and living God that understands and helps 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

So what do we do?

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol (the nether world, the place of the dead) where you are going.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 AMP

What does that mean?

We must focus our minds, today, on doing the things of the greatest value and which are pleasing to god by faith – which is our best!

Let’s also not worry about tomorrow.

““So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 AMP

Yes, progress may feel circular where we make progress, digress or stagnate, study and pray to increase our faith and know how, then move forward to the next level.

We must be encouraged, keep plowing our ground and planting good seeds – keep fighting the good fight of faith.

In closing, we must remember:

“…under the sun that the race is not to the swift and the battle is not to the strong, and neither is bread to the wise nor riches to those of intelligence and understanding nor favor to men of ability; but time and chance overtake them all. [Ps 33:16-19; Rom 9:16]”. Ecclesiastes 9:11 AMP

Let this mind be in us that we have all sufficiency in all things through Christ Jesus.

As we continue to pursue the mind of Christ and his purposes, we will see his kingdom revealed, what we do shall prosper and Christ will be glorified – by faith in Jesus name. Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no activity or planning or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol (the nether world, the place of the dead) where you are going.”

Ecclesiastes 9:10 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ecc.9.10.AMP

God, Have Mercy on Me

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

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures and the thought that as leaders, we are constantly receiving feedback- whether from external sources or most likely, from our internal thoughts.

We have the responsibility to perform and to achieve results through people – ourselves and others, which can be challenging.

Even if we maintain the belief that “feedback is a gift”, we do realize that all feedback is not necessary nor edifying as we see with the Pharisees.

It is in this environment of constant feedback, we must navigate: humbling ourselves, praying to hear from God, making decisions, formulating action plans and achieving results.

Though things often are going well and our influence and authority grows, we must still guard our hearts against hurt as offense can come from many directions and in varying degrees.

Scripture helps prepare us by saying:

“My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” James 1:2-4 KJV

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

Hebrews 4:16 AMP

Amen

In closing, God’s mercy is released

when we keep our minds stayed on Christ and our blessing will flow when we dwell in and praise Christ:

““You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation].”

Isaiah 26:3 AMP

“My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.

Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you.”

Psalms 84:2, 4 NIV

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.

The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’

“But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’

“I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God.

For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.””

Luke 18:9-14 NIV

https://bible.com/bible/111/luk.18.14.NIV

But You Must Master It

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought of how God reacted differently to Cain and Abel’s offerings and what is the leadership lesson.

Scripture tells us clearly how God felt:

“And Abel brought of the firstborn of his flock and of the fat portions. And the Lord had respect and regard for Abel and for his offering, [Heb. 11:4.]

But for Cain and his offering He had no respect or regard. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and he looked sad and depressed.”

Genesis 4:4-5 AMPC

I was amazed at the intensity of Gods response, had questions and found at least one answer in Hebrews, which says:

“[Prompted, actuated] by faith Abel brought God a better and more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, because of which it was testified of him that he was righteous [that he was upright and in right standing with God], and God bore witness by accepting and acknowledging his gifts. And though he died, yet [through the incident] he is still speaking. [Gen. 4:3-10.]”

Hebrews 11:4 AMPC

God clearly was not pleased with Cain but still lovingly spoke to him saying:

“And the Lord said to Cain, Why are you angry? And why do you look sad and depressed and dejected?

If you do well, will you not be accepted?

And if you do not do well, sin crouches at your door; its desire is for you, but you must master it.”

Genesis 4:6-7 AMPC

Maybe Cain was dealing with anger because of being the first born, his assignment to work the fields, strife, or maybe envy? Whatever the driver, something was preventing Cain from honoring God appropriately.

We also see that Cain did not effectively manage or resist the sin at his door. Scripture tells us in verse 8: “And Cain said to his brother, Let us go out to the field. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him. [I John 3:12.]”. Genesis 4:8 AMPC

As leaders, we must guard our hearts against the seeds of sin lying at our doors. We must watch and pray – without ceasing!

“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. “

John 10:10a AMPC

God Has Made A Way of Escape:

He then said:

“I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”

John 10:10b AMPC

“Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands [who feels sure that he has a steadfast mind and is standing firm], take heed lest he fall [into sin].

For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not adjusted and adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear].

But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently.”

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 AMPC

It is my prayer that we, the leaders, strive to have clean hands and pure hearts.

“Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His Holy Place?

He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted himself up to falsehood or to what is false, nor sworn deceitfully. [Matt. 5:8.]

He shall receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation.”

Psalm 24:3-5 AMPC

In closing, let us proactively seek and surround ourselves with advisors and mentors “our spiritual success circle” who can help us develop and manage our guard rails so that we successfully accomplish that which God has given us to do in Jesus name.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“AND ADAM knew Eve as his wife, and she became pregnant and bore Cain; and she said, I have gotten and gained a man with the help of the Lord.

And [next] she gave birth to his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground.

And in the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground.

And Abel brought of the firstborn of his flock and of the fat portions. And the Lord had respect and regard for Abel and for his offering, [Heb. 11:4.]

But for Cain and his offering He had no respect or regard. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and he looked sad and depressed.

And the Lord said to Cain, Why are you angry? And why do you look sad and depressed and dejected?

If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin crouches at your door; its desire is for you, but you must master it.”

Genesis 4:1-7 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/gen.4.1-7.AMPC

Because of My Presence

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that the very things we are seeking are already present.

With God’s presence, we have no lack!

Often times, as leaders, we fight against thoughts and limiting mindsets telling us we don’t have “enough” of something: these can be energy, ideas, healing, peace, customers, resources, access, favor or love.

The truth is that with faith in the word of God and the presence of the holy spirit, we have more than enough!

Maybe, like the Pharisees, we are looking for signs of the Kingdom of God; but, we see Jesus telling them that with His presence the Kingdom is there!

Scripture tells us that they did not recognize or know Him:

“He came into the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him [did not know Him].”

John 1:10 AMPC

So let us get to know Him so we can recognize His kingdom. We have a foundational scripture which helps us:

“IN THE beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. [Isa. 9:6.]

He was present originally with God.

All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him was not even one thing made that has come into being.

In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.

And the Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it].

And the Word (Christ) became flesh (human, incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us; and we [actually] saw His glory (His honor, His majesty), such glory as an only begotten son receives from his father, full of grace (favor, loving-kindness) and truth. [Isa. 40:5.]”. John 1:1-5, 14 AMPC

We, the leaders, have the responsibility, to invest the time (the necessary work) in studying the Word and to quiet other outside influences:

“You search and investigate and pore over the Scriptures diligently, because you suppose and trust that you have eternal life through them. And these [very Scriptures] testify about Me! John 5:39 AMPC

As we become doers and pursue God, we will find:

“It is the Spirit Who gives life [He is the Life-giver]; the flesh conveys no benefit whatever [there is no profit in it].

The words (truths) that I have been speaking to you are spirit and life.”

John 6:63 AMPC

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Now having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He replied, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed or with a visible display;

nor will people say, ‘Look! Here it is!’ or, ‘There it is!’ For the kingdom of God is among you [because of My presence].””

Luke 17:20-21 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.17.20-21.AMP