lifestyle – Vision Multiplier International, LLC

Beauty for Ashes

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, serve a true and living God who cares about us and is with us at ALL times.

The Bible days it this way:

“…I am with you always [remaining with you perpetually—regardless of circumstance, and on every occasion], even to the end of the age.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭20‬A AMP‬‬

In Isaiah, it was prophesied about the coming of Immanuel – which in Hebrew means “God with us”:

“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭7‬:‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Thank you Lord!

In this life, we shall have many troubles but the solution is still the same – Jesus! The Bible states:

““I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.””

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

We also know that the Lord is our shepherd and is faithful to watch over us and to protect us:

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭91‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, Because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: Great is thy faithfulness.”

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

We must be encouraged that regardless of how dark our situation may look – even when everything appears to be turned to ashes – we are reminded that we serve a risen savior that specializes in turning situations around for our good!

The Bible says He always causes us to triumph and He knows our name:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion: let us walk in the daily mercies of Christ and rest in the knowledge and understanding that God is turning our ashes into something beautiful!

“But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; Therefore will I hope in him.

The LORD is good unto them that wait for him,

To the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly Wait for the salvation of the LORD.”

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭24‬-‭26‬ ‭KJV‬‬

To god be the glory!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn;

to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.61.1-3.KJV

Beauty of Your Fragrance

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, demonstrate our commitment and love for Christ by exuding a fragrance of love and adoration so much so that it should soak our atmosphere such that it attracts others to Christ.

Others should sense and see that something is different in us – such that it is an attraction of hope, joy and peace.

In the Bible, we see the story of Mary who outwardly demonstrated her love and adoration towards Jesus by pouring oil on His feet and wiping His feet with her hair – so caring and tender as a means of honoring Jesus.

As can be expected, there were others who observed this event but did not nor could not understand the sacrifice seed that Mary was sowing. They misread the moment and underestimated the value of the relationship that Mary had with Jesus!

The Bible says:

“But Judas Iscariot, one of His disciples, the one who was going to betray Him, said, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and [the money] given to the poor?””

‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

For many of us, as leaders, others may observe our actions – our seeds of love and adoration – and may not truly understand our road traveled nor understand the cost of our worship.

Selah

Then, others may see the sweet fragrance of the Holy Spirit working in our lives as the story of Mary calls out and the Bible says:

“…the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.”

‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Having used her hair to wipe off the feet of Jesus, we can just imaging how the fragrance of the oil in her hair just filled that room and every room in the house throughout the day – therefore soaking the atmosphere well beyond the moment.

We can just imagine that as the scent filled the atmosphere, everyone with whom she encountered that day must have inquired about her beautiful fragrance – providing Mary the opportunity to share and testify of the goodness of Jesus.

In conclusion, it is my prayer that we will let our lights shine bright today as we carry the sweet smell of the Holy Spirit with us.

The Bible says it this way:

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

When we do this we will be a blessing to others.

Amen

“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.

For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which ascends] to God, [discernible both] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.

Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, which should betray him, Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?

This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.”

‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬-‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.12.3-7.KJV

ABIDE

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and my mind just kept returning to and processing the word “Abide” as there is a certain peace that can embrace us, as leaders, when we allow that Word to settle into our spirits. It’s as if our concerns, issues and challenges just dissipate.

Merrrian- Webster defines abide this way:

“to remain stable, continue in a place, or bear patiently, with key connotations of endurance”

In short, resting in Gods presence!

Thank you Jesus.

There are many benefits that accompany our “abiding” in Gods word and therefore His presence. Scripture says it this way:

“Remain in Me, and I [will remain] in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit, producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me. I am the Vine; you are the branches.

The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the best of the land;”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“If you remain in Me and My words remain in you [that is, if we are vitally united and My message lives in your heart], ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you.

My Father is glorified and honored by this, when you bear much fruit, and prove yourselves to be My [true] disciples.”

‭‭John‬ ‭15‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG and Thank You Lord!

“Abiding” is a place where inner strength is developed and cultivated.

“Abiding” is a place where the world slows down and clarity is achieved – clear strategies for moving forward are revealed and crystallized.

“Abiding” is a place where our minds and souls are renewed and refreshed with the washing of the Word.

“Abiding” is a place where the toil and tension of striving in battle are able to cease.

In conclusion, it is my sincere desire, prayer and declaration that, we the leaders on this day shall “Abide”, be complete, comforted and at peace in Christ – completely aligned with the Bible which says:

“… Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.”

‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭11‬, ‭14‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

And Amen!

Be blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“So Jesus was saying to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word [continually obeying My teachings and living in accordance with them, then] you are truly My disciples.

And you will know the truth [regarding salvation], and the truth will set you free [from the penalty of sin].””

‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭31‬-‭32‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.8.31-32.AMP

A Good Man Leaves an Inheritance

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of what type of inheritance or legacy should we, the leaders, strive to leave.

So what is an inheritance?

Marian- Webster defines inheritance as:

“something received from past generations (property, traits, etc.), the act of receiving it (legally or genetically), or the genetic transmission of qualities from parent to offspring, encompassing material possessions, intangible characteristics, and biological traits”

Selah

Part of the leadership development process is realizing that lasting skills are learned through observation, versus class training.

So as leaders we must ensure that our legacy is built on biblical principles of truth, integrity, and righteousness.

By being leaders of character we demonstrate the behaviors that we want to see emulated and scaled throughout our families our businesses and our communities – whether small or large.

Who we are speaks volumes about whether we are truly a follower of Christ or merely an observer of Christ.

Selah

We, the leaders, must also be judicious about who we choose to follow as there are many who desire to lead, but are not equipped to do so. Then we have others who are equipped to lead, but lack character.

The most successful leaders are those who are equipped to lead and have unshakable character that’s based out of righteousness.

Our using Jesus as our example, we can press beyond talking the talk and progress towards walking the walk – demonstrating godly leadership in good times and tough times. This type of leadership thrives both in and out of season.

By learning and studying the Word of God, we face the lens of righteousness daily which reminds us that we are on a journey.

If we error, we can make corrections under Gods grace as He looks at our heart and our motives and His grace is sufficient:

“But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.””

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

No matter where we start, we have a responsibility to continually grow and to improve daily being diligent to let no sin or weight cause us to stumble- causing others to error. The Bible says it this way:

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who by faith have testified to the truth of God’s absolute faithfulness], stripping off every unnecessary weight and the sin which so easily and cleverly entangles us, let us run with endurance and active persistence the race that is set before us,”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭14‬:‭13‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Thank you Lord!

In closing, no matter our circumstances, let us demonstrate the importance of prayer, love, service, understanding, patience, kindness, and joy in our lives.

These foundational character traits, plus righteousness will cause others to want to follow Christ the Light of the World and see the manifestation of God‘s glory in their lives.

That outcome is the best inheritance we can ever leave!

In Jesus name, amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, And the wealth of the sinner is stored up for [the hands of] the righteous.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭13‬:‭22‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/pro.13.22.AMP

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 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

O Give Thanks to the Lord

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, must be intentional about our healing from the inside out.

One of the strategies to accomplish this critical mission is to learn to be intentional about being thankful.

The Bible says:

“O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: For his mercy endureth for ever.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭107‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Yes, we have increasing demands on our schedules, responsibilities, goals and dreams; however, we still must find a way to slow down, strive for simplicity and recognize that building solid and sure foundations (in Gods Word) require time; however, once achieved our growth can be accelerated.

Scripture assures us:

“And He will be the security and stability of your times, A treasure of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; The fear of the Lord is your treasure.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭33‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

So as we close out this year, how do we reset our hearts and minds?

We begin by reflecting and being thankful:

Thankful for the challenges that helped us grow this year – teaching us how much we truly still need more of and to be like Jesus.

Thankful for the achievements we made toward our goals and dreams – appreciating the headwinds that we overcame that were unexpected.

Thankful for the miracle working power of the Holy Spirit that supernaturally kept and sustained us and those we love.

Thankful for our angels who have been on guard and diligent to ensure that we did not dash our feet against any stone and danger came nigh to our dwellings.

Thankful for Christ who has always caused us to triumph bathing us in his ever flowing river of peace and grace.

Thankful for being a citizen of the greatest kingdom ever created. – the kingdom of Christ.

Selah

Let us reaffirm that Christ is still our rock and foundation – In Him we move and have our being.

With thankful hearts, let us create visions and plans so big that, when accomplished, Christ will be magnified and glorified!

By engaging Him in our planning, we can expect to see His manifested glory and through us all the nations of the earth will be blessed!

Let us prayerfully ask the Lord to:

Order our steps and reveal to us our 3-5 year plans
Show us with whom we should partner or build bridges for greater impact
Teach us how to improve our prayer, worship, and healthy lifestyle habits
Reaffirm our assignments so that we are in alignment with the center of His will

In closing, it is my prayer that we, the leaders, will earnestly do the work to heal from the inside out and be made whole so that our lights will shine so bright that the people will be drawn to Christ. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His lovingkindness endures forever.

Oh let Israel say, “His lovingkindness endures forever.”

Oh let the house of Aaron say, “His lovingkindness endures forever.”

Oh let those who [reverently] fear the Lord, say, “His lovingkindness endures forever.”

Out of my distress I called on the Lord; The Lord answered me and set me free.

The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can [mere] man do to me? [Heb 13:6]

The Lord is on my side, He is among those who help me; Therefore I will look [in triumph] on those who hate me.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord Than to trust in man.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord Than to trust in princes.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭118‬:‭1‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.118.1-9.AMP

That Bread!

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, need to constantly improve our spiritual diets for strength to exercise our faith at higher levels – more specifically, nourishing our inner man with the bread of life – YES, THAT BREAD!

THAT bread, once ingested, changes us from the inside out including our eternal future, our perspectives, our visions, our hopes, our motivations, our purposes and our why’s.

Jesus has declared that He is the Bread of Life:

“Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.

For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.

Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.

And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭32‬-‭35‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

So let us feast at a higher level as Christ has given us all things pertaining to life and godliness:

“according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬-‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

As His children, we have the responsibility to follow and call unto Him:

“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭33‬:‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“For we [believers] have become partakers of Christ [sharing in all that the Messiah has for us], if only we hold firm our newborn confidence [which originally led us to Him] until the end, while it is said,

“Today [while there is still opportunity] if you hear His voice, Do not harden your heart, as when they provoked Me [in the rebellion in the desert at Meribah].” [Ps 95:7, 8]”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭3‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

As followers of Christ, we have assurances that He will sustain us and provide us with the necessary tools to expand His kingdom:

“Now He who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed for sowing [that is, your resources] and increase the harvest of your righteousness [which shows itself in active goodness, kindness, and love]. [Is 55:10; Hos 10:12]

You will be enriched in every way so that you may be generous, and this [generosity, administered] through us is producing thanksgiving to God [from those who benefit].

For the ministry of this service (offering) is not only supplying the needs of the saints (God’s people), but is also overflowing through many expressions of thanksgiving to God.

Because of this act of ministry, they will glorify God for your obedience to the gospel of Christ which you confess, as well as for your generous participation [in this gift] for them and for all [the other believers in need],

and they also long for you while they pray on your behalf, because of the surpassing measure of God’s grace [His undeserved favor, mercy, and blessing which is revealed] in you.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

When we are willing and obedient to sow a seed, we have a biblical example of how God allows us to be a blessing and be blessed at the same time:

““There is a little boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what are these for so many people?”

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.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬, ‭11‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, let us pray continually that the Lord will give and we will receive our daily bread:

“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

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

Give us this day our daily bread.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭9‬-‭11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen and thank you for the bread of life!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.

Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.

For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.

He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.

As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.

This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭53‬-‭58‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.6.55.KJV

The Lord Has Made Room For Us

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that even in a time of famine and increased strife, we, the leaders, must pursue peace and Gods purposes and allow Him to place us where we need to be to thrive.

The Bible says:

“And Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold. The Lord blessed him, and the man became rich, and gained more and more until he became very wealthy.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭26‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭ESV‬‬

The Message translation says:

“…The man got richer and richer by the day until he was very wealthy. He accumulated flocks and herds and many, many servants, so much so that the Philistines began to envy him…”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭26‬:‭12‬-‭15‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Richer and richer by the day even in the midst of a famine?

We must get the revelation that there is an unlimited heavenly supply in the invisible realm just awaiting us to match our faith with the Word of god.

Scripture tells us:

““Now it shall be, if you diligently listen to and obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all of His commandments which I am commanding you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth.

All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you pay attention to the voice of the Lord your God.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The Bible also tells us:

“For God shows no partiality [no arbitrary favoritism; with Him one person is not more important than another]. [Deut 10:17; 2 Chr 19:7]”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭2‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

“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

Whether we desire seeds of love, hope,innovative strategies, breakthroughs from prayers, revelations, health, healing, strength, closer families, finances, joy, influence, provision, kindness, generosity, and or peace – they are ours!

While we grow our faith to believe, we also must work to forgive and show love:

“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”

‭‭Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭25‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not be overcome and conquered by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭18‬, ‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

I declare that today begins a season of new beginnings!

Let, us leaders, dare once again to believe God for something miraculous.

Let us name them one by one as we write them down as an expression of our faith.

I believe that if we do these things in accordance with Gods will and His Word, our harvests will be so great that God will make room for us so that we can serve his people, heal the land and His glory will be revealed.

Will you believe and agree with me?

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“And Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold. The Lord blessed him,

and the man became rich, and gained more and more until he became very wealthy.

He had possessions of flocks and herds and many servants, so that the Philistines envied him.

(Now the Philistines had stopped and filled with earth all the wells that his father’s servants had dug in the days of Abraham his father.)

And Abimelech said to Isaac, “Go away from us, for you are much mightier than we.”

So Isaac departed from there and encamped in the Valley of Gerar and settled there.

And Isaac dug again the wells of water that had been dug in the days of Abraham his father, which the Philistines had stopped after the death of Abraham. And he gave them the names that his father had given them.

But when Isaac’s servants dug in the valley and found there a well of spring water,

the herdsmen of Gerar quarreled with Isaac’s herdsmen, saying, “The water is ours.” So he called the name of the well Esek, because they contended with him.

Then they dug another well, and they quarreled over that also, so he called its name Sitnah.

And he moved from there and dug another well, and they did not quarrel over it. So he called its name Rehoboth, saying, “For now the Lord has made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭26‬:‭12‬-‭22‬ ‭ESV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/59/gen.26.12-22.ESV

The People I Love, I Call to Account

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must be mindful of the “temperature” of our relationship with Christ.

Without adequate attention on a daily basis, the relationship that was once a flame of fire can become subdued and lukewarm.

One day, we may look up and realize that somehow, we have veered off course and something is just “missing”.

Yes, we may look at our sermon notes and highlights in our bibles as evidence of previous progress on this journey- which is good and can be a demonstration of past activities taken; however, we may have a growing sense in our heart that something is off course today.

The Bible reminds us that we must die daily and take up our cross to pursue Christ.

“And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to follow Me [as My disciple], he must deny himself [set aside selfish interests], and take up his cross daily [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me].”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I assure you, believers, by the pride which I have in you in [your union with] Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily [I face death and die to self].”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭31‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

When we find that our spiritual candle is becoming dim, we still have the opportunity to confess our sins and fears and to make the needed adjustments in our lives today, for success!

We can start by placing a new log on the fire: forgiveness, faith, commitment, prayer, fasting, meditation on the word and praise – these daily activities will rekindle the flame that once burned bright.

The subtle danger we face is to discount the warning signs from the Holy Spirit- who has been given to us freely from Christ.

“But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him (the Holy Spirit) to you [to be in close fellowship with you].

And He, when He comes, will convict the world about [the guilt of] sin [and the need for a Savior], and about righteousness, and about judgment:

about sin [and the true nature of it], because they do not believe in Me [and My message];

about righteousness [personal integrity and godly character], because I am going to My Father and you will no longer see Me;

about judgment [the certainty of it], because the ruler of this world (Satan) has been judged and condemned.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In closing, no matter the situation we find ourselves in, we are NEVER out of the reach of His magnificent grace and there is still a restorative path home!

This is proof in the Word of God:

“No temptation [regardless of its source] has overtaken or enticed you that is not common to human experience [nor is any temptation unusual or beyond human resistance]; but God is faithful [to His word—He is compassionate and trustworthy], and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability [to resist], but along with the temptation He [has in the past and is now and] will [always] provide the way out as well, so that you will be able to endure it [without yielding, and will overcome temptation with joy].

Therefore, my beloved, run [keep far, far away] from [any sort of] idolatry [and that includes loving anything more than God, or participating in anything that leads to sin and enslaves the soul].”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

With Gods help, I believe and decree that we, the leaders, will find our way back to the highway to holiness when we veer off course.

In Jesus Name, Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit.

You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless.

“Here’s what I want you to do: Buy your gold from me, gold that’s been through the refiner’s fire. Then you’ll be rich. Buy your clothes from me, clothes designed in Heaven. You’ve gone around half-naked long enough. And buy medicine for your eyes from me so you can see, really see.

“The people I love, I call to account—prod and correct and guide so that they’ll live at their best. Up on your feet, then! About face! Run after God!

“Look at me. I stand at the door. I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you. Conquerors will sit alongside me at the head table, just as I, having conquered, took the place of honor at the side of my Father. That’s my gift to the conquerors!

“Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words, the Spirit blowing through the churches.””

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬-‭22‬ ‭MSG‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/97/rev.3.15-22.MSG

If You Say in Your Heart

I was reflecting upon this scripture this morning and my mind kept pondering the thought “if you say in your heart” and how do we, the leaders, handle “conversations of our hearts”.

As we walk this Christian journey, we are challenged to change and adapt daily – often in response to words spoken by those in positions of leadership and authority.

We desire to be obedient and in alignment but there is a question that many of us may struggle with as it relates to whether the word we receive is truly from the Lord or not.

Better put:

“If you say in your heart, ‘How will we know and recognize the word which the Lord has not spoken?’”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We must trust the process, test the spirit by the spirit and understand that time will reveal the truth by the manifestation of that which is spoken.

The Bible tells us that:

““He who comes from [heaven] above is above all others; he who is of the earth is from the earth and speaks [about things] of the earth [his viewpoint and experience are earthly].

He who comes from heaven is above all. What He has [actually] seen and heard, of that He testifies; and yet no one accepts His testimony [as true].

Whoever receives His testimony has set his seal [of approval] to this: God is true [and he knows that God cannot lie].”

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭31‬-‭33‬ ‭AMP‬‬

This is good news!

We must find answers in the Bible as we do live in a world and time where many things we see and hear just do not reconcile or settle well within our hearts.

Because of our training, upbringing, values and environment we know in our hearts when something is not quite right!

In times like these, we have to be careful to observe, understand and pray that which is incorruptible knowing it will stand the test of time and that is the Word of God!

Concerning man, the Bible says that we are to know “them” by their fruit:

“Even so, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the unhealthy tree bears bad fruit.

A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.

Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.

Therefore, by their fruit you will recognize them [as false prophets].”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭17‬-‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Mankind, who can be misguided, can be destructive if and when they stop listening to and stop being led by the Holy Spirit.

Let us, the leaders, find solice and strength in our knowing the sovereign creator and that His creation will last and stand the test of time.

He is not a god of confusion and He will give us the right words of faith to say at the right time:

“For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God [proclaiming the Father’s own message]; for God gives the [gift of the] Spirit without measure [generously and boundlessly]! [Deut 18:18]”

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭34‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“A man has joy in giving an appropriate answer, And how good and delightful is a word spoken at the right moment—how good it is!”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“A soft and gentle and thoughtful answer turns away wrath, But harsh and painful and careless words stir up anger. [Prov 25:15]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

It is my sincere prayer that as we seek answers to difficult questions in our hearts, that we are careful to only speak that which is written in the Word of God – words of faith.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me [Moses] from among you, from your countrymen (brothers, brethren). You shall listen to him. [Matt 21:11; John 1:21]

This is according to all that you asked of the Lord your God at Horeb (Mount Sinai) on the day of the assembly, saying, ‘Let me not hear the voice of the Lord my God again, nor see this great fire anymore, so that I will not die.’

The Lord said to me, ‘They have spoken well.

I will raise up a prophet from among their countrymen like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him.

It shall come about that whoever will not listen to My words which he shall speak in My name, I Myself will require it of him [and there will be consequences].

But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name which I have not commanded him to speak, or which he speaks in the name of other gods—that prophet shall die.’

If you say in your heart, ‘How will we know and recognize the word which the Lord has not spoken?’

When a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord and the thing does not happen or come true, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken. The prophet has spoken it presumptuously; you shall not be afraid of him.”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭18‬:‭15‬-‭22‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/deu.18.15-22.AMP