perspective – Page 2 – Vision Multiplier International, LLC

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

“For His divine power has bestowed on us [absolutely] everything necessary for [a dynamic spiritual] life and godliness, through true and personal knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.”

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

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

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭15‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

Thank you lord!

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

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

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

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

“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And on His law [His precepts and teachings] he [habitually] meditates day and night. [Rom 13:8-10; Gal 3:1-29; 2 Tim 3:16]

And he will be like a tree firmly planted [and fed] by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season; Its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers [and comes to maturity]. [Jer 17:7, 8]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Let Jesus be glorified as our tents are filled!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭54‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

Giants

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must know and believe that we are equipped by the Holy Spirit to overcome any giants that we will face – no matter the size and or complexity!

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

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

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

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

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17‬:‭4‬, ‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

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

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

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

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us spreads and makes evident everywhere the sweet fragrance of the knowledge of Him.”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17‬:‭26‬, ‭28‬-‭30‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

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

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭17‬:‭32‬-‭37‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

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

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

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭144‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

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

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

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, must grow in understanding to know that prayer is the most important weapon we take with us into the boardrooms or any situation.

The Bible tells us:

“…The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) is able to accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God—it is dynamic and can have tremendous power].”

‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

““ Ask and keep on asking and it will be given to you; seek and keep on seeking and you will find; knock and keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you. [Luke 11:9-13] For everyone who keeps on asking receives, and he who keeps on seeking finds, and to him who keeps on knocking, it will be opened.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

As we grow our faith muscles through daily praying the word, we will come into the revelation of what is possible and then can come boldly to the throne of grace!

Let us pray continuously as we wrestle with principalities:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, pray continually for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be honored [triumphantly celebrated and glorified], just as it was with you;”

‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭6‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart And do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him, And He will make your paths straight land smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In closing, I declare and decree that this is our prayer:

“The Lord is my light and my salvation— Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the refuge and fortress of my life— Whom shall I dread?

When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, My adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell.

Though an army encamp against me, My heart will not fear; Though war arise against me, Even in this I am confident.

One thing I have asked of the Lord, and that I will seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord [in His presence] all the days of my life, To gaze upon the beauty [the delightful loveliness and majestic grandeur] of the Lord And to meditate in His temple. [Ps 16:11; 18:6; 65:4; Luke 2:37]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.

And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.”

‭‭James‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/jas.5.16-18.KJV

He Heals

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, have a continuous need and responsibility to stay on the potters wheel for continuous molding and rework for elevation and more responsibility – promotion.

Said another way, we need “healing from the inside out” because leadership is difficult, painful and often misunderstood. We may appear to be successful externally; however, our inner man can be working through turmoil, confusion, indecision and lack of peace. Our belief systems will be challenged and found to be a hinderance for elevation at some point.

But God has a plan for us.

The Bible gives this example in Jeremiah:

“The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord: “Arise and go down to the potter’s house, and there I will make you hear My words.”

Then I went down to the potter’s house, and saw that he was working at the wheel.

But the vessel that he was making from clay was spoiled by the potter’s hand; so he made it over, reworking it and making it into another pot that seemed good to him.

Then the word of the Lord came to me: “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” says the Lord. “Look carefully, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are you in My hand, O house of Israel.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭18‬:‭1‬-‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

Our transformation is taking place in our minds, our thoughts, our memories, our hearts, our words, our wills, our emotions and in our bodies with the intent to become more like Christ!

The Bible says it this way:

““Do not remember the former things, Or ponder the things of the past. “Listen carefully, I am about to do a new thing, Now it will spring forth; Will you not be aware of it? I will even put a road in the wilderness, Rivers in the desert.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭43‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“This is from the Lord and is His doing; It is marvelous in our eyes. [Matt 21:42; Acts 4:11; 1 Pet 2:7]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭118‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs to it and is safe and set on high [far above evil].”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, I just want to speak to and encourage each of our hearts to slow down and hear the sweet voice of the Lord and to do all that he tells us to do – by faith.

When we do this and trust the process, the Bible says:

“I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus [the time of His return]. [Rom 14:10]”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The question before us is simply, “Will we be made whole?”

“When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?”

‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing’

“He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow]. [Ps 34:18; Is 57:15; 61:1; Luke 4:18]

Great is our [majestic and mighty] Lord and abundant in strength; His understanding is inexhaustible [infinite, boundless].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭147‬:‭3‬, ‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.147.3-5.AMP

Gather Up The Fragments

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that our perspective as the leaders, and our posture of expectations determines whether we see opportunity or failure in our lives.

It is possible to be rowing in the sea of opportunity and abundance but all we may see are problems and issues.

This is a matter of perspective!

We serve the God of more than enough: whether ideas, insights, revelation, favor, grace or impact.

We serve the god who said that All things are possible.

The Bible encourages us to:

“Lift up your heads, O gates, And be lifted up, ancient doors, That the King of glory may come in.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24‬:‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

And to say:

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a right and steadfast spirit within me.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭51‬:‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

As we renew our mind in the word, the Word will help us “to see and to not despise” what may feel like small beginnings.

“Then Elisha prayed and said, “Lord, please, open his eyes that he may see.” And the Lord opened the servants eyes and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire surrounding Elisha.”

‭‭2 Kings‬ ‭6‬:‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth.”

‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

In the scripture example, we see where Christ blessed the seed of the lad and it created a harvest of overflow but to the natural eyes, they just saw “crumbs”; however, to those walking by faith, it was a harvest of abundant overflow.

Fragments are our overflow if we have the eyes to recognize them, receive or collect them, and enjoy them!

OMG

God in His infinite and sovereign wisdom can use any situation to meet our needs and to bless us. His methods may seem foolish to man and it may confound the wise; nevertheless, He is not constrained and can use as few or many ways to accomplish his will:

Scripture says it this way:

“But God has selected [for His purpose] the foolish things of the world to shame the wise [revealing their ignorance], and God has selected [for His purpose] the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong [revealing their frailty].

God has selected [for His purpose] the insignificant (base) things of the world, and the things that are despised and treated with contempt, [even] the things that are nothing, so that He might reduce to nothing the things that are,”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.”

‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭14‬:‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

In conclusion, we must continue to trust and keep our eyes on God for:

“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭KJV‬‬

‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse; therefore, you shall choose life in order that you may live,

you and your descendants, by loving the Lord your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding closely to Him; for He is your life [your good life, your abundant life, your fulfillment] and the length of your days, that you may live in the land which the Lord promised (swore) to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.””

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭30‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

The harvest may not come the way we expect but it does not negate the fact that it is our harvest!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Then Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks, He distributed them to those who were seated; the same also with the fish, as much as they wanted.

When they had eaten enough, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the leftover pieces so that nothing will be lost.”

So they gathered them up, and they filled twelve large baskets with pieces from the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten.

When the people saw the sign (attesting miracle) that He had done, they began saying, “This is without a doubt the promised Prophet who is to come into the world!” [Deut 18:15, 18; John 1:21; Acts 3:22]”

‭‭John‬ ‭6‬:‭11‬-‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.6.12-14.AMP

And You Did Not Abandon Them

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 an awesome god who is loyal, faithful, trustworthy, dependable and reliable.

His unwavering consistency and dedication towards us remains true, despite how we react or respond.

The Bible tells us:

““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.

“Yet from the days of your fathers you have turned away from My statutes and ordinances and have not kept them.

Return to Me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord of hosts. “But you say, ‘How shall we return?’”

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The answer is “Seek my face”:

“…Seek My face [in prayer, require My presence as your greatest need],” my heart said to You, “Your face, O Lord, I will seek [on the authority of Your word].”

Do not hide Your face from me, Do not turn Your servant away in anger; You have been my help; Do not abandon me nor leave me, O God of my salvation!”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭27‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭AMP‬‬

2. And know that His Word will prevail:

“So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me void (useless, without result), Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For I assure you and most solemnly say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke [of the pen] will pass from the Law until all things [which it foreshadows] are accomplished.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen and Amen

Because God is sovereign and knows us intimately, we can rest in His presence:

“You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And You are intimately acquainted with all my ways.

Even before there is a word on my tongue [still unspoken], Behold, O Lord, You know it all. [Heb 4:13]

You have enclosed me behind and before, And [You have] placed Your hand upon me.

Such [infinite] knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high [above me], I cannot reach it.

Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭3‬-‭7‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

He loves us so much that He often shares mysteries and secrets with us as we draw nearer to Him. What a privilege!

““Before I formed you in the womb I knew you [and approved of you as My chosen instrument], And before you were born I consecrated you [to Myself as My own]; I have appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” [Ex 33:12; Is 49:1, 5; Rom 8:29]”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“…To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted. [Mark 4:11]”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭13‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

So let us get to the place where we resolve in our hearts that it is all about Christ and Christ alone:

“be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

‭‭Acts‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬-‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Lastly, let us be courageous and walk in the confidence that all things are working together for our good:

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble in dread before them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not fail you or abandon you.””

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen and to God be the Glory!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““You gave them bread from heaven for their hunger, And brought water for them out of a rock for their thirst, And You told them to enter and take possession of The land that You swore to give them. [John 6:31-34]

“But they, our fathers, acted arrogantly; They stiffened their necks and would not heed Your commandments.

“They refused to listen and obey, And did not remember Your wondrous acts which

You had performed among them; So they stiffened their necks and [in their rebellion] appointed a leader in order to return them to slavery in Egypt.

But You are a God of forgiveness, Gracious and merciful and compassionate, Slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness; And You did not abandon them. [Num 14:4]”

‭‭Nehemiah‬ ‭9‬:‭15‬-‭17‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/neh.9.16.AMP