Tag: scripture

When Your Eye (your conscience) is Sound

A Leadership Insight

I was reflecting on these scriptures and the thought that as leaders, we must see the world through multiple sets of “eyes”: Our eyes of personal desires, the eyes of our vision for the future, the eyes of our team and the eyes of our customers. To achieve this, we rely heavily on our conscience to be our moral compass.

This can be difficult and often there is misalignment which can lead to failure or missed opportunity if handled in our own strength.

As believers, scripture reminds us that we “are the light of the world.” And we are instructed to: “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14,16 AMPC

We are responsible for performing our daily heavenly adjustment because:

“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs and tries the hearts” Proverbs 21:2 AMPC

“Haughtiness of eyes and a proud heart, even the tillage of the wicked or the lamp [of joy] to them [whatever it may be], are sin [in the eyes of God].” Proverbs 21: 4 AMPC

“Does not [God] see my ways and count all my steps? If my step has turned out of [God’s] way, and my heart has gone the way my eyes [covetously] invited, and if any spot has stained my hands with guilt, Then let me sow and let another eat; yes, let the produce of my field or my offspring be rooted out.”

Job 31:4, 7-8 AMPC

We must be authentic with God and realize that our destiny is based on how well we yield to the spirit and are obedient to the Word.

“Your eye is the lamp of your body; when your eye (your conscience) is sound and fulfilling its office, your whole body is full of light; but when it is not sound and is not fulfilling its office, your body is full of darkness.

In closing, there is hope as we lay our petition before the Lord:

“Lord, all my desire is before You; and my sighing is not hidden from You. My heart throbs, my strength fails me; as for the light of my eyes, it also is gone from me.”

Psalm 38:9-10 AMPC

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. [Prov. 6:23.]”

Psalm 119:105 AMPC

“Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I may live; and I will observe Your word [hearing, receiving, loving, and obeying it]. [Ps. 119:97-101.] Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Your law.”

Psalm 119:17-18 AMPC

Amen

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a cellar or crypt or under a bushel measure, but on a lampstand, that those who are coming in may see the light.

Your eye is the lamp of your body; when your eye (your conscience) is sound and fulfilling its office, your whole body is full of light; but when it is not sound and is not fulfilling its office, your body is full of darkness.

Be careful, therefore, that the light that is in you is not darkness.

If then your entire body is illuminated, having no part dark, it will be wholly bright [with light], as when a lamp with its bright rays gives you light.”

Luke 11:33-36 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/luk.11.33-36.AMPC

Martha, Martha

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and the life lesson that should be reviewed yearly as our responsibilities and accountabilities increase.

We see the story of Martha who the scripture says “Martha welcomed Him [Jesus] into her home.” She was a gracious and attentive host – having casual conversations with Christ.

Meanwhile, Mary, her sister “seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was continually listening to His teaching.”

Their relationship mattered to Jesus as the scripture tells us in the book of John: “It was the Mary who anointed the Lord with perfume and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. So the sisters sent word to Him, saying, “Lord, he [our brother and Your friend] whom You love is sick.” Now Jesus loved and was concerned about Martha, her sister and Lazarus [and considered them dear friends].” John 11:2-3, 5 AMP

Relationships like this are built through the measuring stick of “time” and it is clear that Mary, Martha and Lazarus had a viable relationship with Christ which was built by spending time with Him.

The warning in the story for us as leaders is that Martha “was very busy and distracted with all of her serving responsibilities..”

Martha felt frustrated and overwhelmed because she had a perceived need for assistance from Mary to just “keep up”! She asked the Lord to convince her sister to assist but was provided a heavenly response instead.

The Lord replied to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered and anxious about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part [that which is to her advantage], which will not be taken away from her.”

That is so powerful. No greater love is this.

Today, I leave you with these thoughts to consider:

“Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God.

And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].” Philippians 4:6-7 AMP

Lastly, fullness of joy comes when we stay in gods presence (psalms 16:11) and like Mary, let us sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him. He says:

““Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation].

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.

For My yoke is easy [to bear] and My burden is light.”” Matthew 11:28-30

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Now while they were on their way, Jesus entered a village [called Bethany], and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home.

She had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was continually listening to His teaching.

But Martha was very busy and distracted with all of her serving responsibilities; and she approached Him and said, “Lord, is it of no concern to You that my sister has left me to do the serving alone? Tell her to help me and do her part.”

But the Lord replied to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered and anxious about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part [that which is to her advantage], which will not be taken away from her.”” Luke 10:38-42 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.10.38-42.AMP

If Two Believers

I was reflecting this morning on these scriptures and was encouraged as I was reminded that with God, the solution to a problem is often simple.

It is awesome to realize the sheer power that IS manifested when two believers come into “agreement”.

The Word says that when we do come into agreement: “about anything that they ask [within the will of God], it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.”

Anything?

Yes, anything!

Wow and Amen!

There are a couple of criteria that must be met for the promise to flow:

⁃ They must be of “one mind”.

⁃ They must be in “harmony”.

That’s it. So simple.

As we do the work to identify and associate with another believer, determine what we truly want/desire, become one mind concerning the desired outcome while ensuring it aligns with the will of God (it is helpful to use a scriptural basis), and be in harmony; then we can ask and EXPECT RESULTS!

Amen

This means that “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” Mark 9:23 KJV

The challenge with us, as leaders, is we sometimes struggle with the sheer simplicity of the message.

The Word also warns us about those who teach a message contrary to the scripture:

“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.”

Romans 16:17-19 KJV

In closing, it is my prayer that these scriptures will settle in your spirit and give you peace, reassurance and confidence:

⁃ “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” 3 John 1:2 KJV

⁃ “Have faith in God.” Mark 11:22 KJV

⁃ “Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.” John 14:10 KJV

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

““Again I say to you, that if two believers on earth agree [that is, are of one mind, in harmony] about anything that they ask [within the will of God], it will be done for them by My Father in heaven.

For where two or three are gathered in My name [meeting together as My followers], I am there among them.””Matthew 18:19-20 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/mat.18.19-20.AMP

My Son, Attend to My Words

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the importance of our having a strategic plan ( or battle plan for war) and the power in effectively communicating that plan to our current teams.

The best prepared teams for battle are those who have been trained on the plan before the engaging event. This minimizes the element of surprise for the team and allows for rapid actions for success.

So for today, we are in a battle for the Kingdom and our rapid action for success is found in the Word of the Lord:

“DO NOT let your hearts be troubled (distressed, agitated). You believe in and adhere to and trust in and rely on God; believe in and adhere to and trust in and rely also on Me.” John 14:1 AMPC

Because we are seeing the things foretold revealed before our eyes:

“And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not get alarmed (troubled and frightened); it is necessary [that these things] take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.

There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines and calamities. This is but the beginning of the intolerable anguish and suffering [only the first of the birth pangs].

And the good news (the Gospel) must first be preached to all nations.”

Mark 13:7-8, 10 AMPC

As leaders, we are not afraid of the fight. We must recognize it for what it is and arm the appropriate weapon to dominate:

⁃ “For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere.” Ephesians 6:12 AMPC

⁃ “men ought always to pray, and not to faint;” Luke 18:1 KJV

Prayer is that weapon!

Lastly, let us “consider well the path of [our] feet, and let all [our] ways be established and ordered aright.

We are the generation for this dispensation in time and we just need to humble ourselves, turn from our wicked ways, pray, and seek Gods face.

When we do this we will see the power of the anointing flow and we will see the healing of our land.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“My son, attend to my words; consent and submit to my sayings.

Let them not depart from your sight; keep them in the center of your heart.

For they are life to those who find them, healing and health to all their flesh.

Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.

Put away from you false and dishonest speech, and willful and contrary talk put far from you.

Let your eyes look right on [with fixed purpose], and let your gaze be straight before you.

Consider well the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established and ordered aright.

Turn not aside to the right hand or to the left; remove your foot from evil.” Proverbs 4:20-27 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/pro.4.20-27.AMPC

Let Me Go

I was reflecting on these scriptures this morning and the thought how one idea revealed to us, downloaded from heaven AND acted upon, can transform our lives forever. We may be given the foundation for a new industry, product line or strategy.

Many times we may view ourselves in our jobs or businesses as “I am just”; but the word of the Lord reminds us that we are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus. We are greater than any current position or role we are fulfilling because we have Christ in us – our hope of glory.

As leaders, the question we face is will we answer the call when the idea is revealed as well as the plan?

Scripture says that:

“I [the Lord] will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.” Psalm 32:8 AMPC

Scripture gives us an example with Jacob and this strategy:

Let me pass through your entire flock today, removing from it every speckled and spotted sheep and every dark or black one among the lambs and the spotted and speckled among the goats; and those shall be my wages.

The good news is that Jacob was and remained faithful in serving and prospered Laban:

Jacob served Laban for many years and endured his fair share of deception and broken promises.

Despite all of the wage adjustments, deception in giving him the wrong bride, Jacob continued to serve. “And Laban said to him, If I have found favor in your sight, I pray you [do not go]; for I have learned by experience and from the omens in divination that the Lord has favored me with blessings on your account.”

Genesis 30:27 AMPC

This example reinforces that our jobs are not our source in the kingdom -Christ is. He has given us the economic model of sowing and reaping.

Lastly, as leaders, we must remember that results come from execution. Jacob received and acted on the strategy and was blessed.

“So Jacob became exceedingly prosperous, and had large flocks [of sheep and goats], and female and male servants, and camels and donkeys.” Genesis 30:43 AMP

In closing, we cannot discount the fact that the ways of Jacob pleased the Lord and the Lord provided for him:

“And the Angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob.’ And I said, ‘Here I am.’ He said, ‘Look up and see, all the rams which are mating [with the flock] are streaked, speckled, and spotted; for I have seen all that Laban has been doing to you. I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed the pillar, and where you made a vow to Me; now stand up, leave this land, and return to the land of your birth.’ ”” Genesis 31:11-13 AMP

As we strive and grow, this is my prayer that we continue to honor those in authority to create the conditions for revelation and success strategies.

“First of all, then, I urge that petitions (specific requests), prayers, intercessions (prayers for others) and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all people, for kings and all who are in [positions of] high authority, so that we may live a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This [kind of praying] is good and acceptable and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior,” 1 Timothy 2:1-3 AMP

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Now when Rachel had given birth to Joseph, Jacob said to Laban, “Send me away, that I may go back to my own place and to my own country.

Give me my wives and my children for whom I have served you, and let me go; for you know the work which I have done for you.”

But Laban said to him, “If I have found favor in your sight, stay with me; for I have learned [from the omens in divination and by experience] that the Lord has blessed me because of you.”

He said, “Name your wages, and I will give it [to you].” Jacob answered him, “You know how I have served you and how your possessions, your cattle and sheep and goats, have fared with me.

For you had little before I came and it has increased and multiplied abundantly, and the Lord has favored you with blessings wherever I turned. But now, when shall I provide for my own household?” Laban asked, “What shall I give you?”

Jacob replied, “You shall not give me anything. But if you will do this one thing for me [which I now propose], I will again pasture and keep your flock:

Let me pass through your entire flock today, removing from it every speckled and spotted sheep and every dark or black one among the lambs and the spotted and speckled among the goats; and those shall be my wages.

So my honesty will be evident for me later, when you come [for an accounting] concerning my wages.

Every one that is not speckled and spotted among the goats and dark among the young lambs, if found with me, shall be considered stolen.” And Laban said, “Good! Let it be done as you say.””

Genesis 30:25-34 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/gen.30.26-34.AMP

Many Prophets and Kings Longed to See What You See

When I was reflecting on these scriptures, I was reminded about of the urgent need for a deeper level of leadership development for these turbulent times. As leaders, multiplying our effectiveness is in direct proportion to our ability to recognize, prayerfully select and enter into covenant relationships with others.

By granting this access or being granted this access, there is a level of trust that, if broken, can really be catastrophic and cause significant pain.

The relationship can include giving a part of our or receiving a part of someone else’s anointing, reputation and good name, so covenant relationships should not be viewed lightly.

The size and magnitude of the commission determines the model chosen from those revealed in scriptures. There are at least four:

⁃ The 70 Appointed: “Now after this the Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them out ahead of Him, two by two, into every city and place where He was about to go. He was saying to them, “The harvest is abundant [for there are many who need to hear the good news about salvation], but the workers [those available to proclaim the message of salvation] are few. Therefore, [prayerfully] ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest. Go your way; listen carefully: I am sending you out like lambs among wolves.” Luke 10:1-3 AMP

⁃ The 12 disciples: “Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority and power over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness. Jesus sent out these twelve, instructing them: “Do not go among the Gentiles, and do not go into a city of the Samaritans; but rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” Matthew 10:1, 5-7 AMP

⁃ The 3 disciples: “Then they went to a place called Gethsemane; and Jesus said to His disciples, “Sit down here until I have prayed.” He took Peter and James and John with Him, and He began to be deeply distressed and troubled [extremely anguished at the prospect of what was to come]. And He said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved and overwhelmed with sorrow, to the point of death; remain here and keep watch.”” Mark 14:32-34 AMP

⁃ Joseph: “Now the plan seemed good to Pharaoh and to all of his servants. 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].” Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you [in charge] over all the land of Egypt.” Then Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand, and dressed him in [official] vestments of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck. He had him ride in his second chariot; and runners proclaimed before him, “[Attention,] bow the knee!” And he set him over all the land of Egypt. Moreover, Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Though I am Pharaoh, yet without your permission shall no man raise his hand [to do anything] or set his foot [to go anywhere] in all the land of Egypt [all classes of people shall submit to your authority].”” Genesis 41:37-44 AMP

We should not despise, discount or cheapen the value of “access” for “Blessed [joyful, spiritually enlightened, and favored by God] are the eyes which see what you see”. These relationships can be one of the greatest source of growth and maturity resulting in our ability to think and plan at a greater level of depth. Often, access is granted to rooms, conversations and experiences that are sacred and private – exponentially propelling our growth, understanding, influence, power and authority.

A warning: we must use discernment and wisdom in choosing relationships for many desire the benefit but have not yet developed their character to thrive well in a covenant relationship. If they are not tested and prayerfully vetted, things can go wrong rather quickly.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

Choose well!

“Listen carefully: I have given you authority [that you now possess] to tread on serpents and scorpions, and [the ability to exercise authority] over all the power of the enemy (Satan); and nothing will [in any way] harm you. Nevertheless do not rejoice at this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”

In that very hour He was overjoyed and rejoiced greatly in the Holy Spirit, and He said, “I praise You, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things [relating to salvation] from the wise and intelligent, and have revealed them to infants [the childlike and untaught].

Yes, Father, for this way was [Your gracious will and choice, and was] well-pleasing in Your sight.

All things have been transferred and turned over to Me by My Father and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal Him.”

Then turning to His disciples, Jesus said privately, “Blessed [joyful, spiritually enlightened, and favored by God] are the eyes which see what you see, for I say to you that many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, and they did not see it; and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.””

Luke 10:19-24 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.10.21-24.AMP

Praise the Lord

I was reflecting this morning on this scripture and just how wonderful God is. As godly leaders pursuing godly visions, sometimes our agendas are “disrupted” by an unction of the Holy Spirit. In these moments we are lead to take a pause or a brief detour so that Gods kingdom is blessed, we are refreshed and His perfect will is done.

Today, it is my hope that we stop and simply say – “Thank you Lord”.

“For it is by free grace (God’s unmerited favor) that we are saved (delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ’s salvation) through [your] faith. And this [salvation] is not of ourselves [of our own doing, it came not through our own striving], but it is the gift of God;”

Ephesians 2:8 AMPC

We have reassurances and rest in the scriptures that reminds us:

⁃ “Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name. [Lev. 7:12; Isa. 57:19; Hos. 14:2.]” Hebrews 13:15 AMPC

⁃ “And we know (understand, recognize, are conscious of, by observation and by experience) and believe (adhere to and put faith in and rely on) the love God cherishes for us. God is love, and he who dwells and continues in love dwells and continues in God, and God dwells and continues in him.” 1 John 4:16 AMPC

⁃ “And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].” 2 Corinthians 9:8 AMPC

⁃ “The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and abounding in mercy and loving-kindness. The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works [the entirety of things created].” Psalm 145:8-9 AMPC

In closing and most of all, God is faithful and can be trusted:

“According to Your steadfast love give life to me; then I will keep the testimony of Your mouth [hearing, receiving, loving, and obeying it].

Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven [stands firm as the heavens]. [Ps. 89:2; Matt. 24:34, 35; I Pet. 1:25.]

Your faithfulness is from generation to generation; You have established the earth, and it stands fast.”

Psalm 119:88-90 AMPC

Yes, He truly deserves ALL the glory, honor and adoration. Let’s praise him today!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“PRAISE THE Lord!

Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise Him in the heights!

Kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all rulers and judges of the earth! Both young men and maidens, old men and children!

Let them praise and exalt the name of the Lord, for His name alone is exalted and supreme!

His glory and majesty are above earth and heaven!

He has lifted up a horn for His people [giving them power, prosperity, dignity, and preeminence], a song of praise for all His godly ones, for the people of Israel, who are near to Him.

Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!) [Ps. 75:10; Eph. 2:17.]”

Psalm 148:1, 11-14 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/psa.148.1-14.AMPC

But Jesus

I was reflecting on this scripture this morning and I just could not stop thinking about these life and hope sustaining words – But Jesus!

There are so many real life applications that come along with these words that It is impossible to express them all.

As leaders, we face many ups and downs as we pursue our objectives and purposes and our needs change.

Despite where we are, we know that we can call on and rely on Jesus to be our source as in him we have all sufficiency in all things.

When we need reassurances, we can meditate on these scriptures:

⁃ “WHEN ABRAM was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, I am the Almighty God; walk and live habitually before Me and be perfect (blameless, wholehearted, complete). And I will make My covenant (solemn pledge) between Me and you and will multiply you exceedingly.” Genesis 17:1-2 AMPC

⁃ “And He said to him, “I am the [same] Lord who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land as an inheritance.” But Abram said, “Lord God, by what [proof] will I know that I will inherit it?”Genesis 15:7-8 AMP

⁃ “Contend, O Lord, with those who contend with me; Fight against those who fight against me. Take hold of shield and buckler (small shield), And stand up for my help.” Psalms 35:1-2 AMP

The question today is what is your need? He says:

“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

In closing, whatever the ask or challenge, we must remember that our “x” factor happens when we declare – “But Jesus”!

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“Now they were all weeping loudly and mourning for her; but He said, “Do not weep, for she is not dead, but is sleeping.”

Then they began laughing scornfully at Him and ridiculing Him, knowing [without any doubt] that she was dead.

But Jesus took hold of her hand and spoke, saying, “Child, arise!” And her spirit returned, and she got up immediately; and He ordered that she be given something to eat.

Her parents were greatly astonished [by the miracle]; but He instructed them to tell no one what had happened.”

Luke 8:52-56 AMP

https://bible.com/bible/1588/luk.8.52-56.AMP

Bear Fruit with Patience

I was reflecting this morning and my mind drifted toward foundational principles and concepts that, if missed, can really cause us as leaders to build our dreams on foundations of sand vs solid rock. And that grieved me.

Concept #1:

While on this earth, though for a vapor, the scripture says we are ALL given some basic raw materials:

“While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease.”Genesis 8:22 AMP

“Now He who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed for sowing [that is, your resources] and increase the harvest of your righteousness [which shows itself in active goodness, kindness, and love].” 2 Corinthians 9:10 AMP

It is up to us how we utilize these resources. Do we squander them, dismiss them, or do we cherish them and serve as good stewards of them? All are OUR CHOICES.

Concept #2:

We often have grand visions but we soon discover our imperfect souls require constant spiritual maintenance: surgery to get our hearts to align with God resulting in prepared and nourished soil.

Grand visions with no biblical character is shallow or hollow at best:

“Incline your ear [to listen] and come to Me; Hear, so that your soul may live; And I will make an everlasting covenant with you, According to the faithful mercies [promised and] shown to David.

Seek the Lord while He may be found; Call on Him [for salvation] while He is near.

Let the wicked leave (behind) his way And the unrighteous man his thoughts; And let him return to the Lord, And He will have compassion (mercy) on him, And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.”

Isaiah 55:3, 6-8 AMP

Concept #3:

When looking at the 80/20 rule as applied to our spiritual growth, preparing the soil of our hearts, ensuring alignment with Gods thoughts and being obedient to his directions are the 20% tasks that make all the difference.

“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.”

Matthew 6:33 AMP

These are some fundamental principles that require time and meditation until we receive revelation and own them.

Our breakthrough to the next level is dependent on our soil quality.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“But as for that [seed] in the good soil, these are [the people] who, hearing the Word, hold it fast in a just (noble, virtuous) and worthy heart, and steadily bring forth fruit with patience.”

Luke 8:15 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/luk.8.15.AMPC

The Wickedness of Man was Great

I was reflecting this morning and the thought that crossed my mind is how man, left to his own devices, can be a destructive force. But with Christ as our moral compass and guide, all things become new and all things are possible.

During creation, we see where God was pleased with man as the scripture states: “And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good (suitable, pleasant) and He approved it completely. And there was evening and there was morning, a sixth day.”

Genesis 1:31 AMPC

However, as time passed, God began to have regrets because man in his fallen state was in a place “that every imagination and intention of all human thinking was only evil continually”.

As leaders, we may find ourselves in a situation where we are building for the future with high expectations; however, we see chaos, deception, confusion, and strife surrounding us.

Despite what is happening around us the Bible reminds us that “there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9 AMPC ) and therefore we also live in a time where the thoughts of Man are evil continuously. Their minds, words and deeds are toward those things which are evil.

“But Noah found grace (favor) in the eyes of the Lord.”

And so can we by declaring Psalms 91 that God:

⁃ He is our Refuge and our Fortress, our God; on Him we lean and rely, and in Him We [confidently] trust!

⁃ He will deliver us from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence.

⁃ He will cover us with His pinions, and under His wings shall we trust and find refuge

⁃ His truth and His faithfulness are a shield and a buckler.

⁃ We shall not be afraid of the terror of the night, nor of the arrow (the evil plots and slanders of the wicked) that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor of the destruction and sudden death that surprise and lay waste at noonday.

⁃ A thousand may fall at our side, and ten thousand at our right hand, but it shall not come near us.”

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Be Blessed!

Be a Blessing!

“The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination and intention of all human thinking was only evil continually.

And the Lord regretted that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved at heart.

So the Lord said, I will destroy, blot out, and wipe away mankind, whom I have created from the face of the ground–not only man, [but] the beasts and the creeping things and the birds of the air–for it grieves Me and makes Me regretful that I have made them.

But Noah found grace (favor) in the eyes of the Lord.”

Genesis 6:5-8 AMPC

https://bible.com/bible/8/gen.6.6-8.AMPC