perspective – Vision Multiplier International, LLC

Well Done

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the reality that we, the leaders, need to create moments for recognition, celebration and recovery as we experience/ achieve milestones in life – with an urgency of now!

For achievement oriented leaders, setting time to celebrate and savor the milestones may feel uncomfortable, counterproductive, inefficient or even futile; however, these precious moments can provide lasting shared experiences – helping a team or family build bonds based on collective memories.

Scripture gives us the example of how God celebrates:

“Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good! And evening passed and morning came, marking the sixth day.”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭1‬:‭31‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Selah

A byproduct of the celebration is the satisfaction that we have done our best work, our efforts were meaningful and we made a difference in the lives of others!

The Bible reminds us that we should strive to do our best as into the Lord:

“Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

When we do our best, good times can be remembered, challenges can be viewed through the lens of continuous improvement and every contributor can know, see and tell how they impacted the success of the unit.

Amen

In closing, it is my prayer that we, the leaders, cherish and celebrate TODAY and live TODAY a life that is pleasing in Gods eyes.

By doing so, we position ourselves for TOMORROW to hear the Lord say “Well Done”!

Scripture says it this way:

“Come now [and pay attention to this], you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and carry on our business and make a profit.”

Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen in your life tomorrow. [What is secure in your life?] You are merely a vapor [like a puff of smoke or a wisp of steam from a cooking pot] that is visible for a little while and then vanishes [into thin air].”

‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“His Lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

It is so, in Jesus Name.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““The master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.25.23.NLT

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 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

God Will Wipe Away Every Tear From Their Eyes

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the reality that loss and grief happens to everyone – regardless of our positions, roles or responsibilities.

At some point during this life journey, each of us will lose someone who we admire, love and respect deeply – our human “rock”.

It is true that each of us grieve differently; however, the worst thing we could do is to shortcut the grieving process or attempt to expedite it so as to not be perceived as vulnerable.

If that person truly meant something to us, they deserve to be remembered and grieving allows us to honor them intimately.

We can choose to pick up their legacy mantle and live our lives as a witness to honor their greatness -especially those traits and memories that edified God and His kingdom.

That is one of the greatest forms of honor!

Selah

The Bible tells us that to everything there is a time and season under the sun.

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

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

A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance.”

‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭2‬, ‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The Bible also gives examples of the process of setting time aside to mourn.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice [sharing others’ joy], and weep with those who weep [sharing others’ grief].”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Lastly , we will need a word from the Lord to help us process the grief and to find comfort. Our hearts can get happy as the scripture below says: “See! I make all things new.”!

“And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭21‬:‭5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

This is a promise and we stagger not at His promises because He is well able to perform them:

“But he did not doubt or waver in unbelief concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong and empowered by faith, giving glory to God, being fully convinced that God had the power to do what He had promised.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭4‬:‭20‬-‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

It is my prayer for us that we follow the example of David and walk through the healing process to arrive at that place of joy:

“David was greatly distressed, for the men spoke of stoning him because the souls of them all were bitterly grieved, each man for his sons and daughters.

But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” 1 Samuel‬ ‭30‬:‭6‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

David later wrote in Psalms:

“You have turned my mourning into dancing for me; You have put off my sackcloth and girded me with gladness, To the end that my tongue and my heart and everything glorious within me may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.” Psalm‬ ‭30‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and death shall be no more, neither shall there be anguish (sorrow and mourning) nor grief nor pain any more, for the old conditions and the former order of things have passed away. [Isa. 25:8; 35:10.]

And He Who is seated on the throne said, See! I make all things new. Also He said, Record this, for these sayings are faithful (accurate, incorruptible, and trustworthy) and true (genuine). [Isa. 43:19.]”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭21‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/8/rev.21.4-5.AMPC

Egypt Welcomes Them

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

I was reflecting on these scripture this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must reverence our positions of influence, don’t discount them and leverage them with grace and skill.

Daily we carry the weight of responsibility, well beyond the initial enthusiasm of the assignment or task, with the goal of representing Christ well.

We also see a biblical example in Joseph where he prospered while working for Potifer then Pharaoh – always enlarging his territory of influence; but, the process was not easy and created many challenges.

Joseph demonstrated for us “how” to live a life with a pure heart and to honor, respect and reverence the king despite having intimate knowledge of his personality , flaws and character.

In short, Joesph elevated his heart and mind to God’s standard.

Selah

As we can see, this message is less about the leaders we serve and more about how we are positioned to accomplish our kingdom mandate – being strategically placed in sometimes uncomfortable places.

We may experience what seems like years of toil, obscurity, dismissal and maybe even deception; however, the Bible shows us how Joseph was elevated when he prioritized showing up God’s way as his purpose.

Scripture says:

“So Pharaoh said to his servants, “Can we find a man like this [a man equal to Joseph], in whom is the divine spirit [of God]?”

Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since [your] God has shown you all this, there is no one as discerning and clear-headed and wise as you are.

You shall have charge over my house, and all my people shall be governed according to your word and pay respect [to you with reverence, submission, and obedience]; only in [matters of] the throne will I be greater than you [in Egypt].””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭41‬:‭38‬-‭40‬ ‭AMP‬‬

OMG

Because of Joseph’s life, God was honored and the blessing was manifested:

“And I will bless (do good for, benefit) those who bless you, And I will curse [that is, subject to My wrath and judgment] the one who curses (despises, dishonors, has contempt for) you. And in you all the families (nations) of the earth will be blessed.” [Gal 3:8]”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭12‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In the midst of the worst famine, we see in scriptures the following:

“Pharaoh looked at Joseph. “So, your father and brothers have arrived—a reunion! Egypt welcomes them. Settle your father and brothers on the choicest land—yes, give them Goshen. And if you know any among them that are especially good at their work, put them in charge of my own livestock.””

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭47‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Thank you Lord!

In closing, no matter what pressure points that we face, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that may be a stumbling block.

We must run this race with patience and love so that God gets the glory and we are able to be a blessing in the famine:

“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

“‘Thus says the Lord God, “On the day that I cleanse you from all your sins I will also cause the cities [of Israel] to be inhabited, and the ruins will be rebuilt.

The desolate land will be cultivated instead of being a desolation in the sight of everyone who passes by.

Then they will say, ‘This land that was deserted and desolate has become like the garden of Eden; and the waste, desolate, and ruined cities are fortified and inhabited.’”

‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭36‬:‭33‬-‭35‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Joseph went to Pharaoh and told him, “My father and brothers with their flocks and herds and everything they own have come from Canaan. Right now they are in Goshen.”

He had taken five of his brothers with him and introduced them to Pharaoh. Pharaoh asked them, “What kind of work do you do?”

“Your servants are shepherds, the same as our fathers were. We have come to this country to find a new place to live. There is no pasture for our flocks in Canaan. The famine has been very bad there. Please, would you let your servants settle in the region of Goshen?”

Pharaoh looked at Joseph. “So, your father and brothers have arrived—a reunion! Egypt welcomes them.

Settle your father and brothers on the choicest land—yes, give them Goshen. And if you know any among them that are especially good at their work, put them in charge of my own livestock.”

Next Joseph brought his father Jacob in and introduced him to Pharaoh. Jacob blessed Pharaoh. Pharaoh asked Jacob, “How old are you?”

Jacob answered Pharaoh, “The years of my sojourning are 130—a short and hard life and not nearly as long as my ancestors were given.” Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh and left.

Joseph settled his father and brothers in Egypt, made them proud owners of choice land—it was the region of Rameses (that is, Goshen)—just as Pharaoh had ordered. Joseph took good care of them—his father and brothers and all his father’s family, right down to the smallest baby. He made sure they had plenty of everything. * * *”

‭‭Genesis‬ ‭47‬:‭1‬-‭12‬ ‭MSG‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/97/gen.47.1-12.MSG

We Have Come to Know

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of how we, the leaders, must continue to learn of Christ until we get to the wonderful place of knowing (with absolute certainty) that He is the way, the truth and the life – our all and all!

The Bible tells us:

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.””

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

As leaders, we know that everyone who follows us does not always agree with us: sometimes because their understanding of the situation is at a different level or maybe they may feel that a different tactic is warranted to achieve the outcome.

All said, they either choose to engage because of buying into the mission or your leadership position or not.

We see in the Bible where some of the disciples chose to leave:

“But [still] there are some of you who do not believe and have faith.”

For Jesus knew from the beginning who did not believe, and who would betray Him.

And He was saying, “This is the reason why I have told you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted him [that is, unless he is enabled to do so] by the Father.”

As a result of this many of His disciples abandoned Him, and no longer walked with Him.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭64‬-‭66‬ ‭AMP‬‬

On the other hand, team or family dynamics really can shift and grow to the point where members are finishing each other’s sentences and thoughts because of a deeper understanding, respect and interconnectedness.

Scripture says it this way:

“We have believed and confidently trusted, and [even more] we have come to know [by personal observation and experience] that You are the Holy One of God [the Christ, the Son of the living God].””

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭69‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The truth is that conflict and adversity will reveal where the team or family or community really is!

Selah

The divinely given words we speak and decisions we make can serve as a two edged sword which will reveal truths and will likely cause conflict with what is believed, accepted and practiced as operating norms today – but it does not negate their validity!

So how do we move forward?

We must first realize that people are not our enemy and strive to always speak the truth in love.

“Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching.

We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.

Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Secondly, we recognize that leadership is ordained by God for the edifying of the saints, building strong homes and communities and making a kingdom impact.

The Bible say it this way:

“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭11‬-‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬

“Furthermore, you shall select from all the people competent men who [reverently] fear God, men of truth, those who hate dishonest gain; you shall place these over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, it is my prayer that we recommit today to studying Gods word and seeking His heart until we can be like Peter and declare “we have come to know that Christ is the Son of the living God”!

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“…we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes]. [Is 40:13]”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭69‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“But [still] there are some of you who do not believe and have faith.” For Jesus knew from the beginning who did not believe, and who would betray Him.

And He was saying, “This is the reason why I have told you that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted him [that is, unless he is enabled to do so] by the Father.”

As a result of this many of His disciples abandoned Him, and no longer walked with Him.

So Jesus said to the twelve [disciples], “You do not want to leave too, do you?”

Simon Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You [alone] have the words of eternal life [you are our only hope].

We have believed and confidently trusted, and [even more] we have come to know [by personal observation and experience] that You are the Holy One of God [the Christ, the Son of the living God].””

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭64‬-‭69‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/ljhn.6.66-69.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

‭‭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