Solution: Prayer and Fasting

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, may find ourselves in an environment that feels unjust or one where excessive demands are expected to produce what feels, to the natural untrained mind, as an impossible task. 

Impossible – What is that?

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

The bible tells us that:

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

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭103‬:‭19‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭25‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭27‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

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

The Bible tells us: 

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

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I assure you and most solemnly say to you, anyone who believes in Me [as Savior] will also do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these [in extent and outreach], because I am going to the Father. 

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

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭28‬-‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

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

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

The Bible say it this way:

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

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬

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

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin. 

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭4‬:‭15‬-‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Thank you Lord!

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

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

Let us meditate on these scriptures daily:

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

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

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

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬-‭3‬, ‭6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬  ‭AMP‬‬

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

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

‭‭1 Timothy‬ ‭1‬:‭14‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭Mark‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭29‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

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

Endure to the End

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the present urgency we, the leaders, must have in developing our “finishing what we started” mindset – one focused and determined to ensure that the issues and challenges of life don’t deter us from our kingdom assignment. 

Sometimes situations may shake our foundations due to rapid successive events which create a feeling of destabilization and doubt – where we wonder if we are in the right place or whether we are making a difference. 

  • Yes, adversity will come. 
  • Yes, doubts will try to creep into our hearts and minds. 
  • And Yes, people may seem to be blinded by the truth and resist us, our ideas and our god. 

In times like these, we must hold steadfast to our trust in Jesus, believe that a heavenly solution is possible and pray until we hear His voice for direction as He is our good shepherd. 

He will shield us and hide us in His secret place so that we are hidden from the wiles of the devil. The Bible says:

“But Jesus looked at them and said, “With people [as far as it depends on them] it is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” [Gen 18:14; Job 42:2]”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭19‬:‭26‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“He that dwelleth 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 will I trust. 

Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, And from the noisome pestilence. 

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

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭91‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 

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 ‭6‬:‭10‬-‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Selah

When we stand on the solid rock of Christ, we find purpose and strength in Him. 

The Bible says: “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and the One who rescues me; My God, my rock and strength in whom I trust and take refuge; My shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower—my stronghold. [Heb 2:13]”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭18‬:‭2‬ ‭AMP‬‬

It also says: “For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

We must choose today to lighten our loads to run our race and if we faint not, the Lord will be faithful to do all that He has promised:

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“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 ‭3‬:‭23‬-‭24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

““If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the best of the land; But if you refuse and rebel, You shall be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

In conclusion, it is my prayer that we faint not but earnestly pray so that we may endure to the end:

“Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. 

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; 

that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬-‭17‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 

All these are the beginning of sorrows. 

Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake. 

And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 

And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 

And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24‬:‭7‬-‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.24.13-14.KJV

He Refreshes and Restores My Soul 

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning with my thoughts centered on how we, the leaders, must joyfully pay the price to be the shepherd of God’s precious seed- His people. We must choose to be open, available, disciplined, and “other” centered – being sensitive to the needs of those we lead and influence. 

This is only accomplished through a life of sacrifice and prayer – with prayer being THE strategy and differentiator!

Whether the mountain seems small or large, we, the leaders, choose to do the necessary work to build up our faith until the mountain becomes a molehill- in Jesus name. 

The Bible anchors our faith when it tells us:

“And they overcame and conquered him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, for they did not love their life and renounce their faith even when faced with death. [Zech 3:1-10; Rom 8:33, 34]”

‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Then He said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” Then Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at God.”

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“‘Ask of Me, and I will assuredly give [You] the nations as Your inheritance, And the ends of the earth as Your possession.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬ ‭AMP‬‬

1 Samuel 26:23

The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness, for the LORD gave you into my hand today, and I would not put out my hand against the LORD’s anointed

Selah

How can we pray believing He is God? Come into His presence with boldness knowing Jesus is our advocate!

“….But the righteous are bold as a lion.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Jesus came up and said to them, “All authority (all power of absolute rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.”

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭34‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭20‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭10‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Amen

In conclusion, lets us lift each other up in prayer- interceding until God’s glory is revealed,  burdens are removed and the joy is restored:

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and restored. 

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

“Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; And uphold me with thy free spirit.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭51‬:‭12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

In Jesus Name. Amen. 

Be Blessed!

Be A Blessing!

“The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], [Ezek 34:11-31] I shall not want. 

He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still and quiet waters. [Rev 7:17] 

He refreshes and restores my soul (life); He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/psa.23.1-3.AMP

If You Say in Your Heart

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

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

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

Better put: 

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

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

The Bible tells us that:

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

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

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

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭31‬-‭33‬ ‭AMP‬‬

This is good news!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭17‬-‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

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

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

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

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭34‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭23‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

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

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭18‬:‭15‬-‭22‬ ‭AMP‬‬

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

He Must Increase, But I Must Decrease

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of how challenging it can be when we, the leaders, encounter difficult people or a difficult situation. 

The challenge could be with our company, boss, coworker, church, neighbors, or even within our home. 

No matter the source of the conflict, the solution is still the same- Christ in me the hope of glory!

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Though we may feel that we have reached our wits end, scripture reminds us that  there is no end to the increase of Christ and His peace.

 “the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭9‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

This is reassuring and comforting because the scripture lets us know that if we just lean on Christ, we will succeed!

When we lay the issue at the feet of Jesus at the cross, ask for forgiveness, wisdom, discernment, and forgive others, our hearts can be free. 

We need to press into His presence until break through occurs within us as we are not designed to carry the burdens for which  Christ has already paid the price. Christ has already resolved the issue when he said- “…it is finished” in John 19:30. 

Selah

When thoughts try to thwart our progress and suggest that “we can’t take it any more” or “we don’t have capacity for the situation”, we must declare that we have the Holy Spirit within us, have been given delegated authority for dominion, have angels encamped around us and have the Word of God to speak in faith, so we are well equipped and able to address any situation!

We must remember, recognize and use the tools we have available to us!

Us and God are a majority because God is sovereign,  rules over all the earth and have given us power to effect change in this earthly realm by faith and prayer. 

Amen

In closing,as a sign of our releasing the burden to Christ, we can just walk in the spirit of praise:

“We have an altar from which those who minister at the tabernacle have no right to eat. 

Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. 

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. 

Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. 

Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭10‬, ‭15‬-‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬

And let us decrease and let Christ increase in our lives today so that:

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

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“He must increase, but I must decrease.”

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭30‬ ‭KJV‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.3.30.KJV

Therefore I Say, Listen to Me

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that we, the leaders, are often given the solution to a pervasive problem that others cannot see. 

When this occurs, we are able to create significant value which brings glory to God!

The Bible says: 

“A man’s gift [given in love or courtesy] makes room for him And brings him before great men. [Gen 32:20; 1 Sam 25:27; Prov 17:8; 21:14]”. ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭16‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Selah

The assumption is that when we are presented before great men, we are equipped for the moment and are to bring kingdom solutions to problems that have never been resolved. 

How we achieve results is through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the revelation that is given to us by God. 

God is so awesome, relevant and timely in helping us to  perform the work of our assignment!

Whether we are in a meeting with those in authority during a strategic or tactical debate, by our asking God for a solution in faith, we are provided answers that gains agreement. 

Whether we are navigating the challenges of life with family members and there is disagreement, by our asking God for a solution in faith, we are provided the right words to say which bring peace and restores love. 

Either way, we know and believe that every problem has a solution because of the Christ that lives inside us, and we are able to bring the solution to any and all problems by faith in Christ!

We must also be careful to give God the glory as we will know:

“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

Amen

I am grateful that Christ  gave us his Holy Sprit to lead us and to guide us into all truth. 

The scripture reminds us:

“But when He, the Spirit of Truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth [full and complete truth]. For He will not speak on His own initiative, but He will speak whatever He hears [from the Father—the message regarding the Son], and He will disclose to you what is to come [in the future].”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭13‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Let us therefore recognize that when our natural solutions have been exhausted, we just need to be available to hear with our spiritual ears as the Bible says:

“But there is a spirit in man, And the breath of the Almighty giveth them understanding.”

‭‭Job‬ ‭32‬:‭8‬ ‭ASV‬‬

It is in moments like these that we can see and experience the truth of the Word being manifested!

“For the Lord gives [skillful and godly] wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren….,”

‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4‬:‭13‬A KJV‬‬

Amen

In closing, it is my sincere prayer that we, the leaders, spend time with God so that our tongues are like a ready writer to speak what “thus said the Lord” in its season. 

“For I am full of words; The spirit within me constraineth me.”

‭‭Job‬ ‭32‬:‭18‬ ‭ASV‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Elihu’s anger burned against Job’s three friends because they had found no answer [and were unable to determine Job’s error], and yet they had condemned Job and declared him to be in the wrong [and responsible for his own afflictions]. 

Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because the others were years older than he. 

And when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouths of these three men, he burned with anger. 

Then Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite said, “I am young, and you are aged; For that reason I was anxious and dared not tell you what I think. 

“I thought age should speak, And a multitude of years should teach wisdom. 

“But there is [a vital force and] a spirit [of intelligence] in man, And the breath of the Almighty gives them understanding. [Prov 2:6] 

“Those [who are] abundant in years may not [always] be wise, Nor may the elders [always] understand justice. 

“Therefore I say, ‘Listen to me; I also will give you my opinion [about Job’s situation] and tell you plainly what I think.’”

‭‭Job‬ ‭32‬:‭3‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/job.32.3-10.AMP

Whoever Practices Truth 

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought of how, as leaders, the practice of truth causes us to live by a higher standard of integrity and clarity than others. 

The question then is: what are some of the truths that are written in the Word of God?

Scripture tells us:

“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.””

‭‭John‬ ‭13‬:‭35‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“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

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.””

‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭32‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Amen

As we executive our daily agenda, we must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit to ensure that we are sowing seeds of love with every interaction- no matter how difficult. 

We are able to do this because we know that spiritual forces influence what we see in the natural, that anything hidden will be revealed and the Holy Spirit will give us wisdom on what to do. 

The Bible says it this way:

“Now the meaning of the parable is this: The seed is the Word of God. For there is nothing hidden that shall not be disclosed, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come out into the open.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭11‬, ‭17‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.”

‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭26‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Amen

As ambassadors for Christ, our roles are to strive to live a righteous life and to sow kingdom seeds into areas where there is no hope. 

Paul illustrates it well when he says:

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 

So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.”

‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Selah

Let us be empowered by the holy spirit to see a brighter day because we are looking through the eyes of eternity and Christ. Remember:

  • We are equipped to bring comfort to people through the power of prayer. 
  • We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to solve real problems,which are spiritual, versus symptoms which are physical. 
  • We are equipped to enter any room and perform well because Christ lives on the inside of us. He  gives us utterance and wisdom for the moment. 

Selah

In closing, when we say yes to being the head, all grace will be released for kingdom impact.  

We bring the light of Christ into the room and darkness must flee!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“But whoever practices truth [and does what is right—morally, ethically, spiritually] comes to the Light, so that his works may be plainly shown to be what they are—accomplished in God [divinely prompted, done with God’s help, in dependence on Him].””

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.3.21.AMP

In The Beginning

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 who are pursuing the purposes of god, must ensure that we have a now word from God that will guide our focus for planning and execution this year. 

Scripture tells us: 

“For the word of the LORD is right; And all his works are done in truth. For he spake, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.”

‭‭Psalm‬ ‭33‬:‭4‬, ‭9‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Our hearing from God refines our thinking and planning – reassuring our spirits that we are moving in the right direction and all heavenly forces are in motion to manifest our vision, plans and dreams. 

There are spiritual forces that will attempt to derail our progress; however, we are well able to overcome these threats through Christ. We must meditate on, study and act on the specific scripture (s) for this year until we prevail. 

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16‬:‭33‬ ‭KJV‬‬

This faith process is guaranteed to produce results as we strive to be in the center of God’s will and to do only those things that please him. 

“When a man’s ways please the LORD, He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.”

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬ ‭KJV‬‬

We want to stay sensitive to the Holy spirit so we can hear the tactical daily adjustments we need to make for success. He knows the way!

Selah

After we develop our God infused plan for this year, we must move forward and execute by faith having the confidence that we will accomplish the mission and god will be glorified.

The scripture tells us that:

“NOW FAITH is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses]. 

For by [faith–trust and holy fervor born of faith] the men of old had divine testimony borne to them and obtained a good report. 

By faith we understand that the worlds [during the successive ages] were framed (fashioned, put in order, and equipped for their intended purpose) by the word of God, so that what we see was not made out of things which are visible.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

Amen

Finally, it is my prayer that in the beginning of each day this year, we are anchored in the Word of god and we  are assured:

“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, Because his compassions fail not. 

They are new every morning: Great is thy faithfulness. 

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

‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“IN THE beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. [Isa. 9:6.] 

He was present originally with God. All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him was not even one thing made that has come into being.”

‭‭John‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭AMPC‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/8/jhn.1.1-3.AMPC

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