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Be Steadfast

A Leadership Insight from Vision Multiplier International https://atomic-temporary-196791482.wpcomstaging.com/

I was reflecting this morning on this scripture and the thought that, we leaders, often struggle with making decisions whether to accept/ decline new roles/ responsibilities or with having steadfast confidence whether a related decision we made was the right one.

Some of this anxiety may result from the lack of sufficient decision making discipline or the lack of sufficient maturity in hearing, recognizing and acting upon the voice of God.

Whatever the cause, the result can be the same: our experiencing turmoil and anxiety versus being in a place of calm and rest.

We are not alone in having internal feelings of inadequacy but I am grateful that we serve a true and living god who is touched by our infirmaries. In Him we are made strong and he will always be with us as he was with Moses and Gideon:

“But Moses said to God, “Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?””

‭‭Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“And God said, “Certainly I will be with you…

Exodus‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬A AMP‬‬

“But Gideon said to Him, “Please Lord, how am I to rescue Israel? Behold, my family is the least [significant] in Manasseh, and I am the youngest (smallest) in my father’s house.””

‭‭Judges‬ ‭6‬:‭15‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“The Lord answered him, “I will certainly be with you….”

‭‭Judges‬ ‭6‬:‭16‬ A AMP‬‬

“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

Selah

We must be encouraged and believe that like Abraham, we will not stagger at the promises of God.

“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

In closing, let us focus on meditating and becoming doers of these scriptures so that we may become steadfast in our leadership and follower-ship of Christ:

“The sheep that are My own hear My voice and listen to Me; I know them, and they follow Me.”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭27‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His [own] life for the sheep. [Ps 23; Is 40:11]”

‭‭John‬ ‭10‬:‭11‬ ‭AMP‬‬

“So submit to [the authority of] God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him] and he will flee from you.

Come close to God [with a contrite heart] and He will come close to you.

Wash your hands, you sinners; and purify your [unfaithful] hearts, you double-minded [people].

Humble yourselves [with an attitude of repentance and insignificance] in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you [He will lift you up, He will give you purpose].”

‭‭James‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬-‭8‬, ‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin [by which it brings death] is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory [as conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ.

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 ‭15‬:‭56‬-‭58‬ ‭AMP‬‬

https://bible.com/bible/1588/1co.15.57-58.AMP

That Your Faith May Not Fail

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

I was reflecting this morning on this scripture and my heart just keeps settling on “just trust god”!

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

Proverbs 16:7 AMP

We can be encouraged by this excerpt from Jeremiah which reminds us of gods commitment to perform his word:

“The word of the Lord came to me, saying, “Jeremiah, what do you see?” And I said, “I see the branch of an almond tree.”

Then the Lord said to me, “You have seen well, for I am [actively] watching over My word to fulfill it.””

Jeremiah 1:11-12 AMP

Amen

We are living in a season of rapid and successive conflicts yet my spirit keeps reminding me that we just need to “trust god”.

“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 and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].”

Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP

God alone is our place of refuge!

“I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust [with great confidence, and on whom I rely]!”

For He will save you from the trap of the fowler, And from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover you and completely protect you with His pinions, And under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and a wall.”

Psalms 91:2-4 AMP

Regardless of the quantity and severity of the challenges, our hearts keep telling us-“just trust God”.

“Many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous, But the Lord rescues him from them all.”

Psalms 34:19 AMP

We, leaders, must prioritize Him with our time in prayer, study, meditation and worship to achieve the best results.

““I love those who love me; And those who seek me early and diligently will find me. ”

Proverbs 8:17 AMP

We must believe that all of his magnificent wisdom will make things OK.

“Yes, You are my rock and my fortress; For Your name’s sake You will lead me and guide me.

You will draw me out of the net that they have secretly laid for me, For You are my strength and my stronghold.

Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord, the God of truth and faithfulness. [Luke 23:46; Acts 7:59]”

Psalms 31:3-5 AMP

We must believe that god is working it all out for our good:

“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

““The Lord will cause the enemies who rise up against you to be defeated before you; they will come out against you one way, but flee before you seven ways.”

Deuteronomy 28:7 AMP

Lastly, the Lord’s mercy endurerh forever so we just need to trust, believe and call out to Him:

“When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you.”

Psalms 91:15 CEV

It is my prayer that our faith fail not!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“but I have prayed [especially] for you [Peter], that your faith [and confidence in Me] may not fail; and you, once you have turned back again [to Me], strengthen and support your brothers [in the faith].””

Luke 22:32 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.22.32.AMP

There Is Nothing Too Difficult

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures and the thought that we serve a great god but we also serve a jealous god. So, as leaders, when we walk into our “Canaan” and enjoy many of gods blessings and deliverance, we must be careful to keep Him as our top priority.

We see several warnings in the scripture:

“Watch yourself so that you do not make a covenant (solemn agreement, treaty) with the inhabitants of the land into which you are going, or it will become a [dangerous] trap among you. But you shall tear down and destroy their [pagan] altars, smash in pieces their [sacred] pillars (obelisks, images) and cut down their Asherim —for you shall not worship any other god; for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous (impassioned) God [demanding what is rightfully and uniquely His]—”

Exodus 34:12-14 AMP

As leaders, we must be ever sensitive to the reality that we are not in this fight alone and we have the god who is the giver of knowledge and understanding with us always. As long as we have God, we can achieve anything.

‘Ah Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! There is nothing too difficult or too wonderful for You…”

Many of us face mountains that seem insurmountable but I am here to remind us that there truly is nothing to difficult for God and he is well able to do it! He says:

““Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is there anything too difficult for Me?””

Jeremiah 32:27 AMP

The Lord was faithful to fulfill his promise to deliver the children of Israel with mighty works of signs and miracles, but they were not equally faithful and consistently built idols to worship. This grieved the Lord.

Scripture says:

great [are You] in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men, to reward or repay each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds;

who set signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, and even to this day [continues to do so] both in Israel and among mankind; and You have made a name for Yourself, as at this day.”

“You brought Your people Israel out of the land of Egypt with signs and wonders, with a strong hand and with an outstretched arm and with great terror; and gave them this land, which You swore to their forefathers to give them, a land [of plenty] flowing with milk and honey.

They entered and took possession of it, but they did not obey Your voice or walk in Your law; they have done nothing of all that You commanded them to do.

Today, we know that we will take possession of our lands and we know that we will prosper in Christ Jesus.

We must also remember that we are always at risk of losing our zeal for god and letting “distractions of life” to be our idols – if we are not careful.

It is my prayer and decree that we will be forever faithful to God!

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“”…I prayed to the Lord, saying,

‘Ah Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! There is nothing too difficult or too wonderful for You—

You who show lovingkindness to thousands, but repay the wickedness (sin, guilt) of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them [that is, calling the children to account for the sins of their fathers], O great and mighty God; the Lord of hosts is His name;

great [are You] in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men, to reward or repay each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds;

who set signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, and even to this day [continues to do so] both in Israel and among mankind; and You have made a name for Yourself, as at this day.”

They entered and took possession of it, but they did not obey Your voice or walk in Your law; they have done nothing of all that You commanded them to do.

Therefore You have caused all this disaster and suffering to come upon them.”

Jeremiah 32:16-20 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jer.32.16-23.AMP

But You Must Master It

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought of how God reacted differently to Cain and Abel’s offerings and what is the leadership lesson.

Scripture tells us clearly how God felt:

“And Abel brought of the firstborn of his flock and of the fat portions. And the Lord had respect and regard for Abel and for his offering, [Heb. 11:4.]

But for Cain and his offering He had no respect or regard. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and he looked sad and depressed.”

Genesis 4:4-5 AMPC

I was amazed at the intensity of Gods response, had questions and found at least one answer in Hebrews, which says:

“[Prompted, actuated] by faith Abel brought God a better and more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, because of which it was testified of him that he was righteous [that he was upright and in right standing with God], and God bore witness by accepting and acknowledging his gifts. And though he died, yet [through the incident] he is still speaking. [Gen. 4:3-10.]”

Hebrews 11:4 AMPC

God clearly was not pleased with Cain but still lovingly spoke to him saying:

“And the Lord said to Cain, Why are you angry? And why do you look sad and depressed and dejected?

If you do well, will you not be accepted?

And if you do not do well, sin crouches at your door; its desire is for you, but you must master it.”

Genesis 4:6-7 AMPC

Maybe Cain was dealing with anger because of being the first born, his assignment to work the fields, strife, or maybe envy? Whatever the driver, something was preventing Cain from honoring God appropriately.

We also see that Cain did not effectively manage or resist the sin at his door. Scripture tells us in verse 8: “And Cain said to his brother, Let us go out to the field. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him. [I John 3:12.]”. Genesis 4:8 AMPC

As leaders, we must guard our hearts against the seeds of sin lying at our doors. We must watch and pray – without ceasing!

“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. “

John 10:10a AMPC

God Has Made A Way of Escape:

He then said:

“I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”

John 10:10b AMPC

“Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands [who feels sure that he has a steadfast mind and is standing firm], take heed lest he fall [into sin].

For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not adjusted and adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear].

But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently.”

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 AMPC

It is my prayer that we, the leaders, strive to have clean hands and pure hearts.

“Who shall go up into the mountain of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His Holy Place?

He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted himself up to falsehood or to what is false, nor sworn deceitfully. [Matt. 5:8.]

He shall receive blessing from the Lord and righteousness from the God of his salvation.”

Psalm 24:3-5 AMPC

In closing, let us proactively seek and surround ourselves with advisors and mentors “our spiritual success circle” who can help us develop and manage our guard rails so that we successfully accomplish that which God has given us to do in Jesus name.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“AND ADAM knew Eve as his wife, and she became pregnant and bore Cain; and she said, I have gotten and gained a man with the help of the Lord.

And [next] she gave birth to his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground.

And in the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground.

And Abel brought of the firstborn of his flock and of the fat portions. And the Lord had respect and regard for Abel and for his offering, [Heb. 11:4.]

But for Cain and his offering He had no respect or regard. So Cain was exceedingly angry and indignant, and he looked sad and depressed.

And the Lord said to Cain, Why are you angry? And why do you look sad and depressed and dejected?

If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin crouches at your door; its desire is for you, but you must master it.”

Genesis 4:1-7 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/gen.4.1-7.AMPC

All That is Mine is Yours

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that, like the eldest brother, if we allow the comparison spirit (envy) to occupy our minds and hearts, we can easily lose sight of our blessings that surround us every day.

Scripture shows us the destructive nature of envy: “A sound heart is the life of the flesh: But envy the rottenness of the bones.“

Proverbs 14:30 KJV

As leaders, we are often given or assume additional responsibilities with the goal of ensuring that the company/ ministry/ family is successful; however, often others appear to have a different selfish agenda.

I am reminded: “…For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.“. Luke 12:48 KJV

Though we see evidence that others are making self centered decisions, we must be encouraged and focus on doing what is right in the eyes of the Lord.

As owners- joint heirs, we cannot afford to lose (defer) hope and sight of our abundance.

”Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: But when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.“

Proverbs 13:12 KJV

Scripture also reminds us:

”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, knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [greatest] reward. It is the Lord Christ whom you [actually] serve.“

Colossians 3:23-24 AMP

”[looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity], who for the joy [of accomplishing the goal] set before Him endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God [revealing His deity, His authority, and the completion of His work].“

Hebrews 12:2 AMP

Amen

In closing, it is my prayer that our eyes may be opened to see the wiles of the enemy, to guard our hearts and to not stagger at the promises of God.

How much more will our Heavenly Father give us:

”If you then, evil (sinful by nature) as you are, know how to give good and advantageous gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven [perfect as He is] give what is good and advantageous to those who keep on asking Him.“. Matthew 7:11 AMP

Eyes have not seen what God has in store for us:

”but just as it is written [in Scripture], “Things which the eye has not seen and the ear has not heard, And which have not entered the heart of man, All that God has prepared for those who love Him [who hold Him in affectionate reverence, who obey Him, and who gratefully recognize the benefits that He has bestowed].”“. 1 Corinthians 2:9 AMP

Others may get their portion but we own it all!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”“Now his older son was in the field; and when he returned and approached the house, he heard music and dancing.

So he summoned one of the servants and began asking what this [celebration] meant.

And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has received him back safe and sound.’

But the elder brother became angry and deeply resentful and was not willing to go in; and his father came out and began pleading with him.

But he said to his father, ‘Look! These many years I have served you, and I have never neglected or disobeyed your command. Yet you have never given me [so much as] a young goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends;

but when this [other] son of yours arrived, who has devoured your estate with immoral women, you slaughtered that fattened calf for him!’

The father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.

But it was fitting to celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was [as good as] dead and has begun to live. He was lost and has been found.’ ”“

Luke 15:25-32 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.15.32.AMP

That is Wisdom

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

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and was simply in awe with the realization of how precious the Word of God is.

We live in a world with increasing issues/ conflicts that, as leaders, we must anchor our souls knowing that the only real solution will be a heavenly solution given by Christ!

Christ has made it so that we don’t have to bear the burden and weight of the moment. We can rest in and trust him.

”Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls.“

Matthew 11:29 AMP

Christ has also provided us access to godly wisdom so , by faith, we can download solutions for this hurting world. Scripture reminds us that:

“…the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom…”

Job 28:28 KJV

”If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him.

But he must ask [for wisdom] in faith, without doubting [God’s willingness to help], for the one who doubts is like a billowing surge of the sea that is blown about and tossed by the wind.

For such a person ought not to think or expect that he will receive anything [at all] from the Lord,“

James 1:5-7 AMP

The responsibility for seeking is on us:

”Then you will call on Me and you will come and pray to Me, and I will hear [your voice] and I will listen to you.

Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity] and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.

I will be found by you,’ says the Lord, ‘and I will restore your fortunes and I will [free you and] gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you,’ says the Lord, ‘and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile.’“

Jeremiah 29:12-14 AMP

By faith, we believe and cling to his promise:

”“Thus says the Lord who made the earth, the Lord who formed it to establish it—the Lord is His name, ‘Call to Me and I will answer you, and tell you [and even show you] great and mighty things, [things which have been confined and hidden], which you do not know and understand and cannot distinguish.’

Behold, [in the restored Jerusalem] I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them; and I will reveal to them an abundance of peace (prosperity, security, stability) and truth.

I will cleanse them from all their wickedness (guilt) by which they have sinned against Me, and I will pardon (forgive) all their sins by which they rebelled against Me.

Jerusalem will be to Me a name of joy, praise and glory before all the nations of the earth which will hear of all the good that I do for it, and they shall fear and tremble because of all the good and all the peace (prosperity, security, stability) that I provide for it.’“

Jeremiah 33:2-3, 6, 8-9 AMP

In closing: let us press in , do the Word, and see the Lord Be glorified.

”“Look, I have taught you statutes and judgments just as the Lord my God has commanded me, so that you may do them in the land which you are entering to possess.

So keep and do them, for that is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’

For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as the Lord our God [is to us] whenever we call on Him?“

Deuteronomy 4:5-7 AMP

That is wisdom that is freely available to us!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; And to depart from evil is understanding.“

Job 28:28 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/job.28.28.KJV

God is Bringing You into a Good Land

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

I was reflecting this morning on the thought that we, the leaders, have provision and blessings all around us. We must purpose in our hearts to stop and see that “it is good” and understand “that it is God”.

No matter the situation, there is evidence that God has and continues to provide for us.

We must trust and believe God. He is our source and sustainer. Below are scripture excerpts that are powerful:

“Every commandment that I am commanding you today you shall be careful to do..”

We must learn the commandments, the ways and heart of God in order for us to “understand and remember”

As we study the commandments and instructions contained in the Bible and meditate on them day and night, we will see success. Our hearts will become full with the word and our belief system will grow.

“And you shall remember [always] all the ways which the Lord your God has led you…”

What may forget that God is still working hard to fulfill his promise made to Abraham.

God was faithful to the children of Israel while they were in the wilderness.

We are descendants of Abraham through Christ Jesus and God still actively performing his word. He is a promise keeper for generations.

“He humbled you and allowed you to be hungry and fed you with manna, [a substance] which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, so that He might make you understand [by personal experience] …”

As leaders, there is a journey that we must travel collectively as a tribe but there is also a “private” journey that each of us must walk.

We cannot borrow the experiences of those before us as “our manna” is tailored to “our need”.

The Lord meets us where we are and provides us with a unique testimony of his goodness, and grace in our lives.

We must: “walk [that is, to live each and every day] in His ways and fear [and worship] Him [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect]. “

Our Promise and Portion:

“when you have eaten and are satisfied, and have built good houses and lived in them, and when your herds and flocks multiply, and your silver and gold multiply, and all that you have increases…”

This is our promise and portion and will forever be our promise and portion if we continue to learn, meditate on and do the commandments contained in his word.

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”“Every commandment that I am commanding you today you shall be careful to do, so that you may live and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the Lord swore [to give] to your fathers.

And you shall remember [always] all the ways which the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, so that He might humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart (mind), whether you would keep His commandments or not.

He humbled you and allowed you to be hungry and fed you with manna, [a substance] which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, so that He might make you understand [by personal experience] that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord.

Your clothing did not wear out on you, nor did your feet swell these forty years.

Therefore, know in your heart (be fully cognizant) that the Lord your God disciplines and instructs you just as a man disciplines and instructs his son.

Therefore, you shall keep the commandments of the Lord your God, to walk [that is, to live each and every day] in His ways and fear [and worship] Him [with awe-filled reverence and profound respect].

For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and springs, flowing forth in valleys and hills;

a land of wheat and barley, and vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey;

a land where you will eat bread without shortage, in which you will lack nothing; a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills you can dig copper.

When you have eaten and are satisfied, then you shall bless the Lord your God for the good land which He has given you.

“Beware that you do not forget the Lord your God by failing to keep His commandments and His judgments (precepts) and His statutes which I am commanding you today;

otherwise, when you have eaten and are satisfied, and have built good houses and lived in them,

and when your herds and flocks multiply, and your silver and gold multiply, and all that you have increases,

then your heart will become lifted up [by self-conceit and arrogance] and you will forget the Lord your God who brought you from the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.“

Deuteronomy 8:1-14 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/deu.8.2-12.AMP

As Far As You Can See

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

I was reading and reflecting on this scripture this morning and the thought that visions can be incremental, progressive and expansive as we grow as a leader. As we study, assimilate the Word of god and grow our faith, our vision of what truly is “possible” continues to expand.

Let’s believe what we can see today!

Don’t be discouraged if our “faith” eyes are not as far or great as others- it does not matter.

God is working on meeting us where we are able to believe while encouraging us to continue to grow in our faith and belief to get the mind of Christ.

It is a journey and the process accelerates as we commit to doing the work to spend time with Christ.

There is a lot of discussion around vision boards which, as leaders, can be powerful tools to help us to decide what it is that we want and to help crystallize our ”picture”‘ of success.

With clarity on the picture of “what” we desire and our “whys”, we can then declare and decree our belief while planting the seed(s) of faith.

”Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” (The seven lamps represent the eyes of the Lord that search all around the world.)“

Zechariah 4:10 NLT

We need to embrace our seed(s) of greatness understanding that one seed planted in faith is:

”….like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his own garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the sky found shelter and nested in its branches.”“

Luke 13:19 AMP

What is still a great mystery is just how does that work. How does our having a picture of the desired outcome mixed with seeds of faith manifest into trees?

”Jesus replied to them, “To you it has been granted to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been granted.

For whoever has [spiritual wisdom because he is receptive to God’s word], to him more will be given, and he will be richly and abundantly supplied; but whoever does not have [spiritual wisdom because he has devalued God’s word], even what he has will be taken away from him.“. Matthew 13:11-12 AMP

As leaders and as trailblazers, we often have a clear picture of what we believe success looks like in this season or at the end of this journey but I am also realizing that at times the vision can feel overwhelming and just needs to be reduced to the next task. The next milestone. The next ridge or hill.

There is value in having a long term or medium term plan but what is equally valuable is to not get distracted by the shear magnitude of the mission.

We have to focus on what “we can see” today, pray about it and then move forward.

A successful life is a string of successful days over time. Sow the seed of greatness today and water the soil of your heart with the anointing and the word which cleanses us of doubt.

Hebrews 12:2 AMP

My prayer for us today is found in Joshua that we:

”Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord our God is with us wherever we go.”“ Joshua 1:9 AMP

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”After Lot had gone, the Lord said to Abram, “Look as far as you can see in every direction—north and south, east and west.

I am giving all this land, as far as you can see, to you and your descendants as a permanent possession.

And I will give you so many descendants that, like the dust of the earth, they cannot be counted! Go and walk through the land in every direction, for I am giving it to you.”“

Genesis 13:14-17 NLT

https://bible.com/bible/116/gen.13.15-17.NLT

Who Then is That Faithful Steward, The Wise Man

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and my mind kept thinking about how critical it is for us, as leaders, to lead well – Every day! It really does make a difference and matters.

Scripture remind us that:

”When the [uncompromisingly] righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked man rules, the people groan and sigh.“ Proverbs 29:2 AMPC

We have a mandate to ”…Be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it [using all its vast resources in the service of God and man]; and have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and over every living creature that moves upon the earth.” Genesis 1:28 AMPC

So let’s look at biblical traits of “leading well”!

Leading well requires a godly management philosophy:

”If you will listen diligently to the voice of the Lord your God, being watchful to do all His commandments which I command you this day, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth.

And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you if you heed the voice of the Lord your God.“ Deuteronomy 28:1-2 AMPC

”But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself [and given distinction to] him who is godly [the man of loving-kindness].

The Lord listens and heeds when I call to Him. You have put more joy and rejoicing in my heart than [they know] when their wheat and new wine have yielded abundantly.

In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You, Lord, alone make me dwell in safety and confident trust.“ Psalm 4:3, 7-8 AMPC

Amen

Leading well requires faith and diligence:

”But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out].“ Hebrews 11:6 AMPC

”Do you see a man diligent and skillful in his business? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.“

Proverbs 22:29 AMPC

”A man shall be commended according to his Wisdom [godly Wisdom, which is comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God], but he who is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

He who tills his land shall be satisfied with bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits is lacking in sense and is without understanding.

The wicked desire the booty of evil men, but the root of the [uncompromisingly] righteous yields [richer fruitage].“ Proverbs 12:8, 11-12 AMPC

Selah

Leading well requires courage to coach and mentor – providing constant feedback:

”Herald and preach the Word! Keep your sense of urgency [stand by, be at hand and ready], whether the opportunity seems to be favorable or unfavorable.

[Whether it is convenient or inconvenient, whether it is welcome or unwelcome, you as preacher of the Word are to show people in what way their lives are wrong.]

And convince them, rebuking and correcting, warning and urging and encouraging them, being unflagging and inexhaustible in patience and teaching.“ 2 Timothy 4:2 AMPC

Amen

Leading well requires effective delegation skills:

”Moreover, you shall choose able men from all the people–God-fearing men of truth who hate unjust gain–and place them over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, to be their rulers.

And let them judge the people at all times; every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they shall judge.

So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you.

If you will do this, and God so commands you, you will be able to endure [the strain], and all these people also will go to their [tents] in peace.“ Exodus 18:21-23 AMPC

Lastly, the best leaders are found “doing the work” required to manifest the vision given by God:

”And He said to them, How is it that you had to look for Me? Did you not see and know that it is necessary [as a duty] for Me to be in My Father’s house and [occupied] about My Father’s business?“

Luke 2:49 AMPC

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Lead well!

“Peter said, Lord, are You telling this parable for us, or for all alike?

And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful steward, the wise man whom his master will set over those in his household service to supply them their allowance of food at the appointed time?

Blessed (happy and to be envied) is that servant whom his master finds so doing when he arrives.

Truly I tell you, he will set him in charge over all his possessions.

But if that servant says in his heart, My master is late in coming, and begins to strike the menservants and the maids and to eat and drink and get drunk,

The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour of which he does not know, and will punish him and cut him off and assign his lot with the unfaithful.

And that servant who knew his master’s will but did not get ready or act as he would wish him to act shall be beaten with many [lashes]. But he who did not know and did things worthy of a beating shall be beaten with few [lashes].

For everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required; and of him to whom men entrust much, they will require and demand all the more. [Num. 15:29, 30; Deut. 25:2, 3.]“ Luke 12:41-48 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/luk.12.41-48.AMPC

For I Believe God, That It Shall Be

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

I was reflecting on these scriptures and the reality that, as leaders, we often face storms – winter storms as soon as we declare we desire to grow and elevate our plans.

According to the National Weather Service, in the natural:

“Winter storms are often called the “deceptive killers” since many deaths can be attributed to indirect causes of adverse weather.”

This would suggest that our new visions and dreams are at the risk of “deceptive killers” called unbelief, fear and doubt.

But in the scriptures, we are reminded that “winters” are divinely orchestrated and therefore must serve a purpose for our good.

”While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.“

Genesis 8:22 AMPC

We must guard our hearts and not be deceived when we experience these winter storms.

We must not allow ourselves to be distracted because it is possible for us to be standing in the field of blessings; yet have a heavy and ungrateful heart – lacking understanding.

Winter seasons and storms are a vital component of our growth process and affords us the opportunity to hear from God; to jettison unproductive habits, relationship structures and beliefs; and to acquire new biblical skills, beliefs , strategies and boundaries.

There is an abundance of new wine available to us – scripture tells us that we just need to prepare our vessels:

”Neither is new wine put in old wineskins; for if it is, the skins burst and are torn in pieces, and the wine is spilled and the skins are ruined. But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.“ Matthew 9:17 AMPC

Paul gives a glimpse of how to prepare:

”But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit [not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit].“

1 Corinthians 9:27 AMPC

Let us therefore do the work to read the Word, believe the Word, pray the Word, do the Word, and repent when we fall short. In doing so, we shall unleash unlimited capacity for growth.

It shall be! In Jesus Name!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

”But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.

And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man’s life among you, but of the ship.

For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Cæsar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.

Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: and the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship.

And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.“ Acts 27:21-25, 43-44 KJV

https://bible.com/bible/1/act.27.22-43.KJV