Make the Crooked Places Straight

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the idea that, as leaders, when we find ourselves in the center of significant changes which are causing us to question our effectiveness or to feel the loss of control, we often yearn for organization to be restored  – making us feel successful. 

We must learn that elevation is disruptive and stressful until we internally grow and mature to the new level of inner peace – despite the external chaos of the storm. 

We can find peace, rest and hope!

“Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. 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

Selah

With every battle, there are multiple perspectives, strategies and priorities. 

Everyone on the team and or in the family may see the change differently despite having the same purpose or goal – to win. 

Each will bring their different strategies and tactics based on their understanding; however, when the transition is complete, we all will celebrate together.

The extreme change/ transitions will conjure up emotions of uncertainty and ambiguity, eventually moving to curiosity. 

We may also feel a sense of lost organization until we grow to the level of feeling confident and organized again. 

The Bible would describe the process as moving from faith to faith:

“For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

During this transition, we must seek out and place our hope on the rock – seeking out sure things (beliefs and principles) in scripture therefore allowing us to stay anchored in Christ. 

Through this journey, the Holy Ghost will lead us and guide us into all truth. 

The Bible say it this way:

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

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭18‬:‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Truly my soul waiteth upon God: From him cometh my salvation. 

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

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭62‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, we, the leaders have the responsibility to fix our eyes forward, focused on the mark of the higher calling in Christ while doing the work of preparation.

We must daily put on the whole armor of God, search the scripture, receive the revelation knowledge, document our plan and execute the plan for this season!

We must be bold in our actions and take dominion over our emotions, our feelings and the situation – always giving honor and glory to God. 

We have to trust the Word, wisdom and plan of God. The Bible states it this way:

“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

Selah

When we successfully execute this daily plan, we will be able to look back and see what the Lord has done and how He has made all our crooked ways- straight!

We praise your name, Jesus!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut; 

I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron: 

and I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. 

For Jacob my servant’s sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me. 

I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me: that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. 

I am the LORD, and there is none else.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭45‬:‭1‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.45.1-6.KJV

Solution: Prayer and Fasting

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, may find ourselves in an environment that feels unjust or one where excessive demands are expected to produce what feels, to the natural untrained mind, as an impossible task. 

Impossible – What is that?

Conditions may be chaotic or even morbid but I hear the word of the Lord saying that He is ruler over all the world, is sovereign and with one touch from Jesus, things change!

The bible tells us that:

“The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; And his kingdom ruleth over all.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭103‬:‭19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭25‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

As leaders and Christ followers, we can be as effective as Jesus – if we prepare and are consecrated. If we are not seeing results, we should pause and reflect like His disciples. 

The Bible tells us: 

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

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭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. 

And I will do whatever you ask in My name [as My representative], this I will do, so that the Father may be glorified and celebrated in the Son. [Ex 3:14]”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭28‬-‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

Let us not get discouraged with where we currently are but we also cannot be complacent and stop growing. 

God knows us and is preparing us to do great things. 

The Bible say it this way:

““Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.””

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“For You formed my innermost parts; You knit me [together] in my mother’s womb.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“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

Thank you Lord!

In conclusion, our  responsibility, as leaders, is to continue to receive spiritual guidance and insights – doing our part to strengthen our inner man through fasting and prayer. 

When done, we will download Gods wisdom, have the mind of Christ, grow in our spiritual authority and see that all things are working together for our good – by faith!

Let us meditate on these scriptures daily:

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. 

Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. 

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬-‭3‬, ‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has granted me [the needed] strength and made me able for this, because He considered me faithful and trustworthy, putting me into service [for this ministry], 

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬  ‭AMP‬‬

“Teach me to do Your will [so that I may please You], For You are my God; Let Your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” Psalms 143:10

“The grace of our Lord [His amazing, unmerited favor and blessing] flowed out in superabundance [for me, together] with the faith and love which are [realized] in Christ Jesus.”

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. 

And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. 

When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, 

Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him. 

And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead. 

But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose. 

And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? And he said unto them, 

This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/mrk.9.23-29.KJV

The Leadership Reality

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that, as leaders, we must grow and mature in our thinking, discernment and decision making processes as we are in a season where situations, circumstances and challenges require a deeper level of thinking, understanding and supernatural faith. 

We must recognize the moment that we are in and rise to the challenge because the lives and welfare of those we love or the things we care about are at risk. 

Having the emotional and spiritual maturity, the spiritual eyes to see, and the strength and fortitude to take action is and will be the measure of our success. 

The scripture warns us to:

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭8 KJV‬‬

But

“Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG!

Mature thinking begins when we declare God’s word:

“(for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, Whose hope is in the LORD his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: Which keepeth truth for ever:”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭146‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“…Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not your’s, but God’s.”

‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭20‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them: for the LORD will be with you.”

‭‭2 Chronicles‬ ‭20‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank you Lord!

Next, let us cast our cares onto the Lord and pursue aggressively the mind of Christ:

“casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you:”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭7‬ KJV‬‬

“For who has known the mind and purposes of the Lord, so as to instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes]. [Is 40:13]”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

However, when we find ourselves needing to attack certain strongholds, let us heed the Bible instructions on steps we should take:

“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭17‬:‭21‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,”

‭‭Jude‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In conclusion, maturity determines and resolves that our only hope is in Christ. 

As a result, I declare and decree that we, the leaders, will do the following:

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Truly my soul waiteth upon God: From him cometh my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭62‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And a light unto my path.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭119‬:‭105‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“…Thy face, LORD, will I seek.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭27‬:‭8‬B KJV‬‬

“Let Israel hope in the LORD From henceforth and for ever.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭131‬:‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 

For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God]. 

And now there remain: faith [abiding trust in God and His promises], hope [confident expectation of eternal salvation], love [unselfish love for others growing out of God’s love for me], these three [the choicest graces]; but the greatest of these is love.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭11‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/1co.13.11-13.AMP

Strong Tower

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning with a reverent heart and the thought, as leaders, “What do we do when we don’t know what to do?”

In this life’s journey, the weight of leadership becomes a reality usually when the stakes are high and the gravity of the moment require decisions that could be fatal or have lasting consequences. 

There will be many voices, thoughts and fears that may try and influence our decision so we must decide early to filter all feedback through God’s word.

During these crucible moments, we CAN find answers by faith!

The Bible shares a couple of pathways:

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.””

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

““Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭1‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭27‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Selah

We must trust God and know that our responsibility and obligation is to make decisions to the best of our spirit led ability based out of love. 

In doing that, we can move forward in grace, reverence, without condemnation and:

  • Thank god for that still small voice that gives us the unction of what to do. 
  • Thank god for a tender heart to guide us as we act out of love. 
  • Thank god for teaching us how to trust Him more.

Amen

In closing, should we wonder if we are making the right decision, there are secret places of reassurance in the scriptures:

“Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭11‬:‭14‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.””

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”

‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank god for giving us the strongest tower in the Name of Jesus where we can run to and be safe!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/pro.18.10.KJV

Calling and Election Sure

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 be equipped to create, implement, and monitor sustainable success systems for growth AFTER we receive a strategic word from the Lord. 

Our success is assured when we recognize and meet the devine moments with action like Peter:

“Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭5‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

The Bible tells us that once Peter executed on Christ’s Words, blessings flowed:

“…, they caught a great number of fish, and their nets were [at the point of] breaking; so they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both of the boats [with fish], so that they began to sink.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭5‬:‭5‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Scripture also reminds us of the benefits that result from having a relationship with Christ:

“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. 

For by these He has bestowed on us His precious and magnificent promises [of inexpressible value], so that by them you may escape from the immoral freedom that is in the world because of disreputable desire, and become sharers of the divine nature.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

We have the responsibility to do our part in being steadfast in studying the word and doing our work:

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭58‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Do your best to improve your faith by adding goodness, understanding, self-control, patience, devotion to God, concern for others, and love. If you keep growing in this way, it will show that what you know about our Lord Jesus Christ has made your lives useful and meaningful.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬-‭8‬ ‭CEV‬‬

In closing, it is my sincere prayer that next year, we the leaders, will grow to new heights in Christ!

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭10‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Merry Christmas!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Jesus Christ, 

To those who have received and possess [by God’s will] a precious faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: 

Grace and peace [that special sense of spiritual well-being] be multiplied to you in the [true, intimate] knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 

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. 

For by these He has bestowed on us His precious and magnificent promises [of inexpressible value], so that by them you may escape from the immoral freedom that is in the world because of disreputable desire, and become sharers of the divine nature. 

For this very reason, applying your diligence [to the divine promises], make every effort in [exercising] your faith to develop moral excellence, and in moral excellence, knowledge (insight, understanding), 

and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, steadfastness, and in your steadfastness, godliness, 

and in your godliness, brotherly affection, and in your brotherly affection, [develop Christian] love [that is, learn to unselfishly seek the best for others and to do things for their benefit]. 

For as these qualities are yours and are increasing [in you as you grow toward spiritual maturity], they will keep you from being useless and unproductive in regard to the true knowledge and greater understanding of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

For whoever lacks these qualities is blind—shortsighted [closing his spiritual eyes to the truth], having become oblivious to the fact that he was cleansed from his old sins. 

Therefore, believers, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you [be sure that your behavior reflects and confirms your relationship with God]; for by doing these things [actively developing these virtues], you will never stumble [in your spiritual growth and will live a life that leads others away from sin]; 

for in this way entry into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly provided to you.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2pe.1.1-11.AMP

Ministry of Reconciliation

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 develop our spiritual muscles to process, release and free our minds and hearts of life’s hurts.

Hurts may come from moments like: a break up of a meaningful relationship, conflict or division within the church, being marginalized at work or within our community, losing a job or being affected by a reorganization and the associated sense that we no longer have control – or matter. 

Life can deliver sudden shifts that we did not see coming or despite our seeing the change we realize that we do not have the skills or power to protect ourselves from the tsunami of change fast enough and we just – get HIT!

Selah

Separate from the actual event, there are emotional processes and scars that can build strongholds in our minds and hearts to cause us to wonder if we even matter, are still relevant or can still add value. 

So how do we work through the rejection, get centered again and restore our beliefs that we began questioning during the dark moments?

There are some fundamental truths that still remain as Christ is still our hope of glory: 

  • His never ending love prepared the way for us for days like these – giving us secret access through His spirit to lay down the emotional burdens and memories at the cross. 
  • We can trust Him because He is the only one who can determine our worth.
  • Christ has given us the ministry of reconciliation as the path to healing and wholeness.

The Bible says it this way:

“And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

He (Christ) provides this for us – we just need to accept it and let Him in.

Thank you lord!

Reconciliation is defined as:

“ the restoration of friendly relations” and “the action of making one view or belief compatible with another.”

The definition emphasizes that reconciliation makes one view or belief compatible with another- in short, aligning our views with those of Christ!

Our God is a god of restoration and He has equipped us with the tools and methods necessary to be restored. 

We see and accept these restoration promises which position us to be in the place of “more than enough” and to trust that our “latter days shall be greater than our former”.

The Bible tells us:

“And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you.”

‭‭Joel‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But as for you [Satan], ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭50‬:‭20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“But … he shall restore sevenfold; He shall give all the substance of his house.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭6‬:‭31‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts.”

‭‭Haggai‬ ‭2‬:‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

So in closing, it is my prayer that we will hold steadfast to our faith, fear not and rest in the peace that we are being restored:

“And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭50‬:‭19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; And the King of glory shall come in.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭24‬:‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭27‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen and it is so!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 

And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/2co.5.17-18.KJV

Enlarge the Site of Your Tent

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, may be experiencing headwinds and or possible delays as we implement our god given visions and ideas. Yes, we have our hands to the plow but have yet to see the manifestation – the birth. 

Despite what we are seeing or experiencing in the natural realm, we must cultivate our spiritual eyes of faith and focus on the promises found in the word of God – as they are still true – and begin to expand our tents by faith in anticipation of the harvest! 

The scripture tells us to prepare now (to enlarge our tents) to make capacity by faith to receive and nurture our spiritual children (ideas, strategies, concepts, businesses, relationships, influence and souls) which has no limit. 

Scripture tells us:

““Shout for joy, O barren one, she who has not given birth; Break forth into joyful shouting and rejoice, she who has not gone into labor [with child]! For the [spiritual] sons of the desolate one will be more numerous Than the sons of the married woman,” says the Lord. [Gal 4:27]”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭54‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Praise the lord!

The Bible also tells us we are still blessed, have authority and through us all the nations will be blessed:

“And God blessed them [granting them certain authority] and said to them, “Be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth, and subjugate it [putting it under your power]; and rule over (dominate) the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and every living thing that moves upon the earth.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬ B AMP‬‬

Selah

So, let not our hearts be troubled as Christ has overcome the world and has given us all things pertaining to life and godliness. 

“Cast your burden on the Lord [release it] and He will sustain and uphold you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken (slip, fall, fail). [1 Pet 5:7]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭55‬:‭22‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. 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

“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

Amen

If we trust Him, obey Him and cultivate our soils by asking the Lord to root up any trees in our heart that is not like him, we will create the soil conditions where our words, deeds, ideas and desires will harvest bountifully:

“He answered, “Every plant which My heavenly Father did not plant will be torn up by the roots. [Is 60:21]”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Through our faith, we will no longer have to wait for natural manifestation timelines but we will see our harvest mature at the speed of our sowing and belief. 

Thank you lord!

In closing, let us shout unto the Lord and thank him for his marvelous works because all he has done is marvelous in our eyes. 

Let us praise and honor Him as adoration belongs to God for all of his wonderful works and for just who He is.

Let us today thank Him for giving us the eyes to see the ripe fields of ideas and innovations by faith. 

Lastly, let us delight in the law of the Lord day and night to be firmly planted:

“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 ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Let Jesus be glorified as our tents are filled!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Shout for joy, O barren one, she who has not given birth; Break forth into joyful shouting and rejoice, she who has not gone into labor [with child]! 

For the [spiritual] sons of the desolate one will be more numerous Than the sons of the married woman,” says the Lord. [Gal 4:27] 

“Enlarge the site of your tent [to make room for more children]; 

Stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, do not spare them; Lengthen your tent ropes And make your pegs (stakes) firm [in the ground]. 

“For you will spread out to the right and to the left; And your descendants will take possession of nations And will inhabit deserted cities.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭54‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.54.1-3.AMP

Giants

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 know and believe that we are equipped by the Holy Spirit to overcome any giants that we will face – no matter the size and or complexity!

Giants can come in many forms during our faith journey. They can be:

  • Big or consequential decisions for us, our loved ones or our assignments
  • Bad reports related to health, family, or finances
  • Crucial conversations requiring courage in our personal and professional lives
  • Change impacting us or those we love like shifts at work, shifts in the home and shifts in the community that disrupts routines and norms

The Bible gives us a visible “physical” example of a giant who was threatening Israel from a perceived position of strength:

“Then a champion came out from the camp of the Philistines named Goliath of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will become your servants; but if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall become our servants and serve us.””

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17‬:‭4‬, ‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

The truth is that these and ALL giants are destined to fall down; however, how we respond or react when facing them will largely determine our success or failure. 

It is true that growth and development as a leader can create many levels of discomfort and  the issues we face can be daunting – causing us to search for solutions while praying for wisdom, peace and guidance. 

The reassuring news is found in the Bible, which says:

“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

“For all who are allowing themselves to be led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, That bringeth forth his fruit in his season; His leaf also shall not wither; And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

When we are rooted in Gods word and know his heart for us, we can reflect on how far the lord has brought us and can go forward in boldness like David despite the opinions of those around us:

” Then David spoke to the men who were standing by him, “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes the disgrace [of his taunting] from Israel? 

For who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he has taunted and defied the armies of the living God?” 

Now Eliab his oldest brother heard what he said to the men; and Eliab’s anger burned against David and he said, “Why have you come down here? With whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your presumption (overconfidence) and the evil of your heart; for you have come down in order to see the battle.” 

But David said, “What have I done now? Was it not just a [harmless] question?” Then David turned away from Eliab to someone else and asked the same question; and the people gave him the same answer as the first time.”

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17‬:‭26‬, ‭28‬-‭30‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Because David had been walking with the Lord and had the faith that the Lord would teach him how to fight just like time past, he rose to the occasion. Scripture tells us:

 “David said to Saul, “Let no man’s courage fail because of him (Goliath). Your servant will go out and fight with this Philistine.” 

Then Saul said to David, “You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight him. For you are [only] a young man and he has been a warrior since his youth.” 

But David said to Saul, “Your servant was tending his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and took a lamb out of the flock, I went out after it and attacked it and rescued the lamb from its mouth; and when it rose up against me, I seized it by its whiskers and struck and killed it. 

Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, since he has taunted and defied the armies of the living God.” 

David said, “The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” And Saul said to David, “Go, and may the Lord be with you.””

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17‬:‭32‬-‭37‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In closing, each of us are facing a “giant” of some kind today as we pursued the promises of God. It is my prayer for us that we pray like David:

“Blessed be the LORD my strength, Which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight: My goodness, and my fortress; My high tower, and my deliverer; My shield, and he in whom I trust; Who subdueth my people under me.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭144‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Let us not short circuit the development process until we are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. 

Let us find the courage to return each day with increasing faith as if our lives depended on it.  

These giants must come down and we will take the promise land in Jesus Name!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“So Moses sent spies from the Wilderness of Paran at the command of the Lord, all of them men who were heads of the Israelites. 

Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said to them, “Go up this way into the Negev (the South country); then go up into the hill country. 

See what the land is like and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many, and whether the land in which they live is good or bad, and whether the cities in which they live are [open] camps or fortifications, 

So they went up and spied out the land from the Wilderness of Zin to Rehob [a town in Lebanon], at Lebo-hamath [in the far north]. 

When they returned from spying out the land, at the end of forty days, they came to Moses and Aaron and to all the congregation of the sons of Israel in the Wilderness of Paran at Kadesh, and brought back word to them and to all the congregation, and showed them the land’s fruit. 

They reported to Moses and said, “We went in to the land where you sent us; and it certainly does flow with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. 

But the people who live in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified (walled) and very large; moreover, we saw there the descendants of Anak [people of great stature and courage]. 

But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people [of Canaan], for they are too strong for us.””

‭‭Numbers‬ ‭13‬:‭3‬, ‭17‬-‭19‬, ‭21‬, ‭25‬-‭28‬, ‭31‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/num.13.3-31.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