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Unless God is With You

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of how we cannot achieve our mission in the kingdom unless god is with us.

“….for no one can do these signs [these wonders, these attesting miracles] that You do unless God is with him.”

John‬ ‭3‬:‭2B AMP‬‬

As leaders, our elevation is less about us but more about the opportunity to stretch our faith so we can represent Christ at a higher level of influence. We are the only Jesus that people will see!

That is an awesome burden and responsibility.

We want to be such an example and influence of hope and encouragement that people are attracted to Christ because of us.

We must prepare to be the available so God can move. And as the Lord moves in our lives and changes our circumstances, we will be positioned and asked to sit at tables of influence for which we may feel least qualified; however, the Lord will give us insights and ideas in real time that meet the moment.

We must hear the heavenly insight, accept them, thank Him for the idea and then share the ideas with confidence.

God is an awesome ruler and everything He does is marvelous!

Selah

As we are positioned for greater and greater influence, it is our responsibility, as leaders, to create and maintain success systems that support our values so we don’t miss opportunities that currently surround us.

Daily strengthening of our faith and decluttering of our hearts from fear, doubt, worry and distractions can be achieved through daily praying the Word over our present and future.

Systematic giving of our tithes, offerings and other charitable contributions (in short our seed), we help fulfill the mandate of Christ to take care of the poor through the local church

Lastly, here are some additional benefits we receive as we allow Christ to be king in our lives:

Supernatural Provision

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Supernatural Energy

“Then the hand of the Lord came upon Elijah [giving him supernatural strength]. He girded up his loins and outran Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel [nearly twenty miles].”

‭‭1 Kings‬ ‭18‬:‭46‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Supernatural Insights

“Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant. It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured. It does not rejoice at injustice, but rejoices with the truth [when right and truth prevail]. Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening].”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Supernatural Patience

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Supernatural Empathy

“Moved with compassion [for his suffering], Jesus reached out with His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.””

‭‭Mark‬ ‭1‬:‭41‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Supernatural Wisdom

“In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king consulted them, he found them ten times better than all the [learned] magicians and enchanters (Magi) in his whole realm.”

‭‭Daniel‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I have better understanding and deeper insight than all my teachers [because of Your word], For Your testimonies are my meditation. [2 Tim 3:15] I understand more than the aged [who have not observed Your precepts], Because I have observed and kept Your precepts.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭99‬-‭100‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Our time, talents and treasures are the very solutions that others are praying for and want to benefit from because God is with us.

Be Blessed!

Be A blessing!

“Now there was a certain man among the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler (member of the Sanhedrin) among the Jews,

who came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi (Teacher), we know [without any doubt] that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs [these wonders, these attesting miracles] that You do unless God is with him.”

Jesus answered him, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless a person is born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified],he cannot [ever] see and experience the kingdom of God.””

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.3.1-3.AMP

Maturity

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

This mourning I was reflecting on this scripture and the thought that, we leaders, must prioritize and value self reflection in this season.

We must daily focus on the work of becoming a better person, thinking more strategically and executing flawlessly for ourselves, our families, our teams and our communities.

We are fighting against external forces and barriers, internal fears, personal concerns, doubts and perceived inadequacies.

In short we must show up and perform!

We must choose to invest into relationships building trust and mutual respect understanding that candid conversations are required when either party is missing the mark.

Accountability for maximizing impact must prevail over comfort but never take a back seat to respect and love.

Scriptures remind us:

“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.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As I look at this scripture, my heart is reminded that personal and leadership growth is a multi level journey and not a destination.

Scripture encourages us that when Christ, who alone is complete, enters into our situation and our lives, change will happen.

“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part [for our knowledge is fragmentary and incomplete]. But when that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As we mature in the Word, we are given places to rest but are then nudged (some harder than others) to get back into the fight.

But in order to fight and perform well at the next level, there are some things (thoughts, habits and behaviors) that we will have to denounce or let go of to successfully run this race.

For some of us, it may be excuses about our health.

For some of us, it may be excuses around our spiritual development and preparation.

For others of us, it may be learning that outcomes are not the same as activity as all activities and outcomes are not valued the same by our customers, our bosses, our church, our family, our spouses, or God.

Selah

Coming to this realization can be humbling but I hear the spirit of the Lord telling us to gird up our loins for the change:

““Now gird up your loins like a man, And I will ask you, and you instruct Me!”

‭‭Job‬ ‭38‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬

So, how do we discern what strategies will meet the need of the moment?

How do we walk in love and embody a standard to which others aspire and then take practical steps to pursue?

The Bible instructs us:

“Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest [of God, to know and experience it for ourselves], so that no one will fall by following the same example of disobedience [as those who died in the wilderness].

For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Instruct us oh Lord so that we may represent you well. Teach us thy truths and help us to grow in you!

“For the love of Christ controls and compels us, because we have concluded this, that One died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that all those who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and was raised for their sake.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Lord, teach us to know how to communicate in a more precise and thoughtful way – understanding idle words spoken may release forces we later must subdue. For we know that words are creative and we should treat each word as if it is a commandment.

Lord teach us how to manage our environment to create places of refuge and peace. For we know that in these quiet places we can hear from you as you inspire us toward a better life I’m Christ

Amen

In closing, the time has now come for the people of god to humble ourselves and seek gods face and will for our situation and lives.

Growth is accompanied by discomfort but the Lord is still our shepherd who will lead us in the path of righteousness.

“As iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens [and influences] another [through discussion].

He who tends the fig tree will eat its fruit, And he who faithfully protects and cares for his master will be honored. [1 Cor 9:7, 13]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭27‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let us mature in our faith and achieve excellent results for Gods glory!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant.

It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured.

It does not rejoice at injustice, but rejoices with the truth [when right and truth prevail].

Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening].

Love never fails [it never fades nor ends]. But as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for the gift of special knowledge, it will pass away.

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part [for our knowledge is fragmentary and incomplete].

But when that which is complete and perfect comes, that which is incomplete and partial will pass away.

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 ‭13‬:‭4‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/1co.13.4-13.AMP

Am I in the place of God?

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 know and understand that God is sovereign and elevates who he chooses, when he chooses and how he chooses for the Kingdom’s sake.

Often, we can become despondent and discouraged by the circumstances we see or are experiencing in the natural; but often, the significant resistance we experience is just our opportunity to simply trust God, his promises and the process.

Scripture reminds us in these moments that:

“The steps of a [good and righteous] man are directed and established by the Lord, And He delights in his way [and blesses his path]. When he falls, he will not be hurled down, Because the Lord is the One who holds his hand and sustains him.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We know that significant resistance cannot stop God’s plan. We must do our part and boldly fight the good fight of faith. The Bible instructs us on how:

“Fight the good fight of the faith [in the conflict with evil]; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and [for which] you made the good confession [of faith] in the presence of many witnesses.”

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Blessed be the Lord, my Rock and my great strength, Who trains my hands for war And my fingers for battle;”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭144‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“The wicked flee when no one pursues them, But the righteous are as bold as a lion. [Lev 26:17, 36; Ps 53:5]

When a land does wrong, it has many princes, But when the ruler is a man of understanding and knowledge, its stability endures.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“So that we are no longer children [spiritually immature], tossed back and forth [like ships on a stormy sea] and carried about by every wind of [shifting] doctrine, by the cunning and trickery of [unscrupulous] men, by the deceitful scheming of people ready to do anything [for personal profit].

But speaking the truth in love [in all things—both our speech and our lives expressing His truth], let us grow up in all things into Him [following His example] who is the Head—Christ.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

We MUST endure UNTIL we claim our rewards:

“For as many as are the promises of God, in Christ they are [all answered] “Yes.” So through Him we say our “Amen” to the glory of God.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Through your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have heard and obeyed My voice.” [Gen 12:2, 3; 13:16; 22:18; 26:4; 28:14; Acts 3:25, 26; Gal 3:16]”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, Who alone does wonderful things.

Blessed be His glorious name forever; And may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭72‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might.”

Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭10‬ AMP‬‬

Thank you Emmanuel for being with us! Mathew 1:23.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph holds a grudge against us and pays us back for all the wrongs we did to him?”

So they sent word to Joseph, saying, “Your father left these instructions before he died: ‘This is what you are to say to Joseph: I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly.’ Now please forgive the sins of the servants of the God of your father.”

When their message came to him, Joseph wept.

His brothers then came and threw themselves down before him. “We are your slaves,” they said.

But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God?

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.

So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭50‬:‭15‬-‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/111/gen.50.15-21.NIV

Diligence

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought of how vital it is that we, the leaders, not only focus on our strategic objectives but truly enjoy the “daily grind” of work. Being diligent in our work will cause others to notice and to aide in our success.

The Merriam- Webster dictionary defines diligence as: “ showing steady and earnest care and effort “

The scripture tells us:

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

How we sow the seeds of our time, our talents, and our treasures will determine the levels of our elevation.

The Bible reminds us:

“The generous man [is a source of blessing and] shall be prosperous and enriched, And he who waters will himself be watered [reaping the generosity he has sown]. [2 Cor 9:6-10]”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭11‬:‭25‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

and whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

When we commit our ways to the Lord, He will bless it:

“Commit your way to the Lord; Trust in Him also and He will do it. He will make your righteousness [your pursuit of right standing with God] like the light, And your judgment like [the shining of] the noonday [sun].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we commit our ways to the Lord, He will multiply our seeds sown:

“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].”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we commit our ways to the Lord, He will be on our side:

““If it had not been the Lord who was on our side,” Let Israel now say,

“If it had not been the Lord who was on our side When men rose up against us,

Then they would have [quickly] swallowed us alive, When their wrath was kindled against us;

Then the waters would have engulfed us,

The torrent would have swept over our soul;

Then the raging waters would have swept over our soul.””

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭124‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

It is my prayer that we will remain diligent and be about our father’s business.

“Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/pro.22.29.KJV

Perfect and Complete, Needing Nothing

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭Job‬ ‭5‬:‭24‬ ‭NLT‬‬

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

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬ ‭NLT‬‬

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

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬B KJV‬‬

Selah

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

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

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

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭18‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

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

Wholeness is a decision away for us!

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

No longer will we be broken and not whole!

In Jesus Name

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

For the Lord is a Great God

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning with a heavy heart for this has been a difficult season for many of us, as leaders.

We are expected to be strong yet empathetic with those we lead while personally adjusting to the demands (challenges) of our lives.

So, this morning, let us hit pause and just reflect on all that Christ has done for us in this season – gathering as many examples of His faithfulness as possible.

When we just consider His love, grace, protection and provisions, we will begin to feel the joy of the Lord starting to rise on the inside.

Here are a couple more scriptures we can leverage to find that joy:

“I will bless the LORD at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm‬ ‭34‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Enter His gates with a song of thanksgiving And His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, bless and praise His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy and lovingkindness are everlasting, His faithfulness [endures] to all generations.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭100‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Know ye that the LORD he is God: It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭100‬:‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good…”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭31‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Oh come let us adore Him!

For He alone is worthy of all the praise, glory and adoration.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Merry Christmas!

“O come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord; Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation.

Let us come before His presence with a song of thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with songs.

For the Lord is a great God And a great King above all gods,

In whose hand are the depths of the earth;

The peaks of the mountains are His also.

The sea is His, for He made it [by His command];

And His hands formed the dry land. [Gen 1:9]

O come, let us worship and bow down, Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker [in reverent praise and prayer].

For He is our God And we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand. Today, if you will hear His voice, [Heb 3:7-11]

Do not harden your hearts and become spiritually dull as at Meribah [the place of strife], And as at Massah [the place of testing] in the wilderness, [Ex 17:1-7; Num 20:1-13; Deut 6:16]

“When your fathers tested Me, They tried Me, even though they had seen My work [of miracles].

“For forty years I was grieved and disgusted with that generation, And I said, ‘They are a people who err in their heart, And they do not acknowledge or regard My ways.’

“Therefore I swore [an oath] in My wrath, ‘They absolutely shall not enter My rest [the land of promise].’ ” [Heb 4:3-11]”

‭‭

Psalms‬ ‭95‬:‭1‬-‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.95.1-11.AMP

As Was His Habit

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of how important it is that we, leaders, evaluate our progress on our habits – especially the success habit of prayer.

Life presents many tests and we must learn how to thrive in them and this is possible as we grow our prayer skills.

Some of us have mature prayer skills. These are our “prayer warriors”; however, there are many of us who are still striving to just get better- there is good news and hope.

“Now Jesus was telling the disciples a parable to make the point that at all times they ought to pray and not give up and lose heart,” Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Jesus lived what he taught: “And He came out and went, as was His habit, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed Him.” Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭39‬ ‭AMP‬‬ “And He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed,” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭41‬ ‭AMP‬‬

As leaders, the number of areas that need “prevention prayer” seem endless: ourselves and our families, health, insights, strategies, direction, healing, strength, clarity of thought and a pure heart.

Scripture shares the risks “prevention prayer” is trying to avoid:

“But each one is tempted when he is dragged away, enticed and baited [to commit sin] by his own [worldly] desire (lust, passion). Then when the illicit desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin has run its course, it gives birth to death.”

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

There are also times we need “warfare prayer”. Scripture uses Jesus’ example:

And being in agony [deeply distressed and anguished; almost to the point of death], He prayed more intently; and His sweat became like drops of blood, falling down on the ground. [Heb 5:7]

Selah

Whatever the moment requires, it is my hearts desire that we, the leaders, will build up our faith through the habit of daily prayer.

“It is because of the Lord’s lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed, Because His [tender] compassions never fail. [Mal 3:6]

They are new every morning; Great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness. [Is 33:2]

“The Lord is my portion and my inheritance,” says my soul; “Therefore I have hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him.” [Num 18:20]”

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“And He came out and went, as was His habit, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed Him.

When He arrived at the place [called Gethsemane], He said to them, “Pray continually that you may not fall into temptation.” [Matt 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42]

And He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed,

saying, “Father, if You are willing, remove this cup [of divine wrath] from Me; yet not My will, but [always] Yours be done.”

Now an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.

And being in agony [deeply distressed and anguished; almost to the point of death], He prayed more intently; and His sweat became like drops of blood, falling down on the ground. [Heb 5:7]

When He rose from prayer, He came to the disciples and found them sleeping from sorrow,

and He said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not fall into temptation.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭39‬-‭46‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.22.39-46.AMP

Do You Not Remember

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning, the sign of the times and the importance, as leaders, to embrace change while holding true to our old landmarks.

Despite our growing up in and maturing in Christ, we may find ourselves at times spiritually, emotionally, physically, and or financially “stuck”- just troubled.

I just want to say: be encouraged because all things are still working out for our good!

Scripture tells us:

“Do you not remember that when I was still with you, I was telling you these things?”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials.

Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace].”

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We must hold on to our most holy faith:

“But you, beloved, build yourselves up on [the foundation of] your most holy faith [continually progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], pray in the Holy Spirit,

and keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting anxiously and looking forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ [which will bring you] to eternal life.

And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy but with fear, loathing even the clothing spotted and polluted by their shameless immoral freedom. [Amos 4:11; Zech 3:2-4]”

‭‭Jude‬ ‭1‬:‭20‬-‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let us remember to search for the good way:

“…Stand by the roads and look; ask for the ancient paths, Where the good way is; then walk in it, And you will find rest for your souls. ….”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭6‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, let this be our prayer:

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling or falling into sin, and to present you unblemished [blameless and faultless] in the presence of His glory with triumphant joy and unspeakable delight,

to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and power, before all time and now and forever. Amen.”

‭‭Jude‬ ‭1‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Now in regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to meet Him, we ask you, brothers and sisters, [Mark 13:27; 1 Thess 2:19; 4:15-17]

not to be quickly unsettled or alarmed either by a [so-called prophetic revelation of a] spirit or a message or a letter [alleged to be] from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has [already] come.

Let no one in any way deceive or entrap you, for that day will not come unless the apostasy comes first [that is, the great rebellion, the abandonment of the faith by professed Christians], and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction [the Antichrist, the one who is destined to be destroyed], [Dan 7:25; 8:25; 1 Tim 4:1]

who opposes and exalts himself [so proudly and so insolently] above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he [actually enters and] takes his seat in the temple of God, publicly proclaiming that he himself is God. [Ezek 28:2; Dan 11:36, 37]

Do you not remember that when I was still with you, I was telling you these things?

And you know what restrains him now [from being revealed]; it is so that he will be revealed at his own [appointed] time.

For the mystery of lawlessness [rebellion against divine authority and the coming reign of lawlessness] is already at work; [but it is restrained] only until He who now restrains it is taken out of the way.”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/2th.2.1-7.AMP

Proportionally More

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

I was reflecting this morning on this familiar scripture and my mind pondered, as leaders, what does it mean to be “all in”?

We see the example with the widow woman giving all she financially had but this principle also can be applied to other areas of our lives.

There is an expectation that leaders must be “all in” for the mission, purpose and cause!

Leaders must invest proportionately more thought, energy and effort than others – to be that example for others to follow.

Scripture reminds us of the benefits of being diligent about our fathers business:

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭22‬:‭29‬ ‭ASV‬‬

“And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭49‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Being “all in” requires that we invest in:

Think time for planning and strategizing.
Personal time to keep our mind, body and spirit strengthened and energized.
Relationship building time with our inner circle and customers as relationships are the glue.
Execution time: ensuring we are getting the right things done by the right people!

In short, our levels of contribution are the difference maker!

Our mindset and belief should be:

“We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work.”

John‬ ‭9‬:‭4‬AMP‬‬

“And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:”

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“I love them that love me; And those that seek me early shall find me.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭8‬:‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It is an awesome responsibility and burden to be called “leader”; we can receive comfort and strength knowing that Christ understands us and meets us where we are:

“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

In conclusion, our success is guaranteed as we:

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

Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ AMP‬‬

“and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance. [Ezek 20:41]”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord that your Word says the righteous will be remembered forever [Prov 10:7] and we will not fear bad news as we steadfastly trust [confidently relying on and believing] in the you! [Psalms‬ ‭112‬:‭7‬]

Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Looking up, He saw the rich people putting their gifts into the treasury. [Mark 12:41-44]

And He saw a poor widow putting in two small copper coins.

He said, “Truly I say to you, this poor widow has put in [proportionally]more than all of them;

for they all put in gifts from their abundance; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭21‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.21.1-4.AMP

Tomorrow Will Take Care of Itself

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and over this past week.

As leaders, there is a growing amount of pressure and confusion in this season that, if we are not careful, can cause us to live in a state of worry and have No peace.

This is not of God and I am so grateful that we have the greatest helper available to show us the way forward- that is the Holy Spirit.

We are also blessed to possess the best instruction manual (the Bible) that will guide us into all truth and give us knowledge and wisdom – if we will just seek for the answers there.

Peace and provision:

As we renew our minds with an expectant heart, our faith will be strengthened and divine strategies will be revealed to us.

We have a responsibility and duty to simply hold fast to our faith, as little children – getting excited for the opportunity to be near Him, to share our inner most thoughts with Him, and to allow His warm embrace to comfort and strengthen our inner man.

Peace, Be still!

Being at peace in His presence, knowing that all is well and He is doing wondrous works on our behalf, is exciting.

Selah

In closing, let’s fill our hearts with praise to the point where worry is uncomfortable and will flee!

We already know how this story will end- We triumph and We Win!

We will medicate/ meditate on these scriptures as our prescription against worry:

“Tell the Lord how thankful you are, because he is kind and always merciful.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭118‬:‭1‬ ‭CEV‬‬

“I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart and tell about the wonders you have worked. God Most High, I will rejoice; I will celebrate and sing because of you.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭9‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭CEV‬‬

“But I will sing about your strength, my God, and I will celebrate because of your love. You are my fortress, my place of protection in times of trouble. I will sing your praises! You are my mighty fortress, and you love me.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭59‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭CEV‬‬

“Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Our way of escape from worry in this season is through the power of praise and prayer!

Thank you Lord and Amen!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment?

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: and yet I say unto you,

That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or,

Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭25‬-‭34‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.6.31.KJV