Leadership Traits.

Leadership Traits.

As the shepherd leads his flock, so too are you to lead those under you.

I’ve put together a few ideas to bring out the best in yourself and in others.

Leadership may not be something you wish to pursue. All leadership does is teach good communication skills. Good communication is essential and beneficial, so even if you don’t want to be a leader, these tips are still useful to know.

Good leadership starts with you. Your relationships can only be as healthy as you are. You will become like the four closest friends around you, so choose your friends wisely. If they drink, you’ll drink. If they smoke, steal or take drugs, you’ll eventually smoke, steal and take drugs. If they’re charitable and volunteer, you’ll eventually do the same. If they create business’s, you’ll too will become a business owner.

You’ve got to have faith in yourself. If you don’t have faith in yourself, no one else will either. If you don’t know how to have faith in yourself; read. There’s plenty of books on building yourself up.

List the things on which you could improve about yourself along with the steps you need to take to get you there. Make sure this list has an action plan, for without action, nothing changes.

Forget about what makes you insecure. Instead, ask yourself what you can do to bring value to someone else. God asks that we be servants to others, so serve. Serve in any capacity you feel able.

Use the 30 second rule whenever possible. Within the first 30 seconds of any conversation say something encouraging to someone. I love your necklace. Gee your hair is pretty. What a beautiful dress. Don’t you look dapper today. Quit searching for ways to make yourself look good. Instead search for ways to make others feel good.

Look for a positive, encouraging thing to say to someone you’ve come in contact with, even if it’s only the person at the cash register, or the bus driver, or the cleaner. Never think you are better than anyone else and remember; everyone is going through something difficult that you know nothing about. Put a smile on your dial and offer a compliment. You’ll never know how much that means to them.

Be attentive, appreciate and affirm those you speak to. We can be so focused on ourselves that we forget the importance of being attentive to others.

You never get ‘there’ on your own. Ask for help from those around you. People love to feel needed. People are waiting to be asked. Ask for input and carefully consider the answer given.

Create a great memory and visit it often. Purposely make joyous memories. Memories that can bring a smile or a laugh upon recall. Create an experience to commemorate an achievement or milestone, one that will be remembered well after the event.

Create memories. Don’t wait for them to happen. Memories are the rivers of joy that we draw from in our latter years. Memories bring joy in the lives of others, each and every time the memory is raised. Laughter lifts a weary soul. Those memories you create will forever be recalled with fondness, in the lives of those you touch.

Admonish a friend in private but praise them in public. If you want to lift others, praise them in front of people. People love to receive praise and they love it more if it’s heard by those around them.

Search for those you can praise. Be authentic. People readily see through insincerity. When you give a compliment, you also give a person wings; the courage to try and keep going.

One of Winston Churchill’s greatest achievements was the way he could inspire others. He inspired, motivated and challenged people and they rallied around him with the belief that they could win the war and they did. Be an inspiration, not a wet rag. Draw out the best from those around you. When you look at an individual, ask yourself; what is their greatest quality? What is unique and wonderful about them? And then tell them so.

If someone thinks you respect them, they’ll go the extra mile for you. They’ll reach for the star that you’ve set up for them and try their hardest to achieve it. Don’t view them as they are. See them as they can be and when you do, they’ll live up to the reputation you’ve given them. What you expect you get, so expect much from them and they’ll give you their best.

If you’re on friendly terms with the person, give them a nickname (just as God and Jesus chose new names for people) that speaks to their potential. It takes approximately 10 years for someone to be great at something. Giving that person a ‘positive’ nickname dramatically reduces the time it takes to become a professional in their field.

Don’t focus on what you want to say. Focus on what the other person needs to hear. If you were in the other person’s shoes what would you like to hear and then tell them so. Saying the right words at the right time could change someone’s life.

People who belittle your ideas, seldom have good ideas of their own.

I believe in you! You should believe in you too. A wrong word can crush a person’s dream. I’m not saying I believe in you just for words sake. If you have a dream, believe in yourself. Give yourself inspiring words, for just as wrong words can crush a dream, right words can inspire the dream to fruition. And if someone thinks well enough of you to tell you their dream, encourage them in it.

Critical people try to talk you out of your dreams because it shows them how far away they are from achieving their own dreams. Don’t be a dream killer, even if the dream seems far-fetched, always encourage. The graveyard is full of lost potential from those who didn’t chase their dreams.

The bible states; where there is no vision the people perish (Proverbs 29:18). People need dreams and visions. Many people are dead from the neck up because they’ve allowed their dream do die. Hope deferred makes the heart sick (Proverbs 13:12). Encourage others to keep their dreams alive; it’s one of the greatest gifts you can give someone.

Many will try to discourage dreams. Don’t be one of the many. Encourage others. Offer specific help, for example; what steps do they need to take? What challenges do they think they’ll need to overcome? Affirm the person and the dream and offer to help them get there.

Pass the credit on to others. If anyone has given any ideas that have helped in any way, acknowledge them. Give them thanks, after all, whatever you undertake will require the minds and hands of others to help you fulfil your dream. If you catch someone doing a good deed, thank them for it. Acknowledge their efforts. Write them a note. It’s one thing to say thanks verbally and quite another to have taken the time to write a thank you.

Only say it if you mean it. People quickly see through insincere praise however passing credit boosts moral and has a long-lasting effect, not only on the person receiving the praise but also your own moral.

The difference between winners and losers is preparation. More than just a discipline, preparation is a way of life. The bible states; “Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10.)

If you’re lax in one area you’re sure to be lax in other areas. Always try to do your best. Don’t be half-hearted; give your all into any endeavour. 

When out for dinner, leave the best seats for other guests. Let them enjoy the view. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to look at the view when it’s just you and your spouse.

When giving a speech, don’t just give a generic speech, write your speech with that company or that person in mind. Look up what they love, what they need and what they’re trying to achieve. Make the speech important to them.

And while you’re at it, why don’t you view everyone as important, not just the people you like. The service attendant who’s rude to you, the teacher you aren’t so keen on, the cleaner, gardener or pool attendent – they all have issues in life and to offer your best makes their day and ensures they feel valued and worthwhile.

Make moments magical for all those around you. If you have a special event, make it memorable, spice it up little. A conversation becomes deeper if you attentively listen. Treat people as important. We are accountable to God. I read somewhere once; Potential is God’s gift to you, what you do with your potential is your gift to God. Time too, is a gift from God. Use your time wisely. Maximise your talents, opportunities and resources. Give all you have and be honest in the process. It will take you far and lead to greater fulfilment.

Virtue is vital. The Oxford dictionary defines virtue as; behaviour showing high moral standards. The old testament speaks of virtue as strength and power. The new testament speaks of virtue as excellence or valour. The summation of the old and the new could be said; as a mighty force and an admirable character. I like the sound of that.

What is virtue, if it isn’t good character and lofty thoughts, a high standard of excellence, as well as high morals and ethics as we strive towards good works, purity and innocence – not an easy task in today’s society. Remembering virtue isn’t perfection, but consistent excellence in all areas of life.

Now we come to the benefit of the doubt. Things go wrong in life. People say hurtful things and others respond but what if it was unintentional? What if you said something and the other person took it in a way you didn’t mean at the time? Perhaps someone intentionally said something hurtful. What do you do now?

Allow the person to put their point of view across and give them the benefit of the doubt. Could this work against you? Yes, sometimes. Not everyone has pure intent. But more often than not, most people aren’t out to upset others. Try mediating between parties and offer the forgive and forget on both sides of the argument, especially if you don’t know who is telling the truth.

People view things differently. It doesn’t always mean one person is right and one wrong. Find a common ground and try to smooth things over as best you can. When you give the benefit of the doubt, people are more likely to return as they’ll see you don’t take sides or show favouritism. We all have good and bad days, we’re human after all and that brings fallibility and shortcomings. Recall the good and move forward.

To be a good leader means to brainstorm strategies and concepts. In moving forward, pick the best idea and remember; there’s no bad ideas, just better ideas. Chose the best idea that was thrown into the ring during the brainstorm session and test it to see if it will fly. Allow for error. Allow room to change. Allow others to have input. See the big picture and look to the long-term. Don’t try to take shortcuts.

What is the big picture? People. Advancement. Working harmoniously. People need to feel worthwhile and not a number. People want to move ahead and not be stuck in a corner and this is best achieved when everyone works harmoniously together. Success isn’t about what you gain in life, it’s about how much you serve others with a joyous heart.

Here’s a challenge for you; call an individual and dedicate the product, game, prize to them. Give them a portion of what you’re trying to achieve. It helps push you to win. Serving others cultivates health and happiness. And the bonus is, when you help others, you’re helping yourself. It frees you of competitiveness and jealousy.

Stoop down and lift another up. Do for them what they can’t do for themselves. Whatever you’ve been given, share it. With an abundant mind-set, you’ll never worry about running out. It doesn’t matter how much or how little you have, give. Give knowledge. Give a dollar if that’s all you have. Give a meal. Give a smile, give a compliment – it costs nothing.

Make business contacts and introduce those contacts to others. Introduce young people to their hero’s. (Yes, you might have to wait until you’re a little older but keep it in mind.) Some of my most memorable vacations were one’s friends had bestowed upon me at a time when I could never have afforded it. I still treasure those memories today.

Every product and service begin with an idea. Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises. Brainstorm ideas. Test concepts. Often great ideas are ideas that you’ve never thought up yourself, but those that others come to you with.

Ideas create new ideas. The more ideas you give away, the more you seem to create new ideas. Creativity and generosity seem to partner well together. Often, we need help. Often, we can help others. Lift another by helping in any way you can, for what you do for someone else will be repaid back to you.

Be an attentive listener but also try to sense what is unsaid, what people are feeling as they speak to you. Don’t steamroll over people in trying to win an argument, hurting people along the way. Listen attentively. See the value in the other person’s viewpoint. If you listen well, you’ll pick up clues that will tell you what the other person is really saying.

Don’t forget about the person behind the idea that’s being communicated. Impatient people are often poor listeners. Take time to pause. Slow down and put the other person ahead of your impatience.

Barriers to listening are distractions such as phones, tv, emails but also holding on to a defensive position, closemindedness, assumptions and pride. Be open and willing to listen, setting aside all distractions and preconceive ideas.

Get to know those entrusted into your care. They all have dreams and visions for their lives, just as you do. Understand what those dreams are. Can you help in any way? Maybe those dreams and visions take them away from your company. Aid them anyway. Help them reach their greatest potential.

Listen respectfully. Listen with the intention of understanding. Take time to hear the other person’s point of view while at the same time putting across your own point of view. Discuss, don’t argue.

The message might be the same for everyone, but everyone will hear the message differently. This is because we’re all unique. We each focus on different things. Learn what’s important to each person you talk to.

Ask about their family; wife, children, grown up children and grandchildren. Ask what they’ve been doing, what they enjoy – communicate - and then get down to business. Don’t forget the people in your own life. What are they up to, what do they like, what challenges are they facing that you can help with?

There are a few questions which will get you to the heart of the people more rapidly. What are you dreams? What makes you cry? What do you value and what is your strength? Don’t rapid fire, take time to talk. You may not get all the answers in one sitting. Be strategic and intentional. Jot their answers as soon as you can and refer back to them before meeting the person the next time, so you know birthdays, the names of the children, likes and dislikes. It helps the person feel worthwhile that you’ve remembered these important areas of their life.

When you connect with someone, find common ground; something you both like. Or perhaps you have children the same age. Or play the same sport. If you find you can’t view things in the same way, be sure you can articulate what you’re trying to say.

As people mature, their dreams might change. Don’t expect the same answers to the earlier questions. Keep in continual communication. Is it time consuming? Yes. This is a lifestyle, not a moment in time. With a servant heart and attitude, it is going to take your time. Be efficient with your time. Don’t waste it. Act with integrity at all times and never try to manipulate someone.

Offering to help others is a winning strategy. Even if you just lift someone’s luggage onto the plane/train, or offer to carry the shopping for the mother of three children, or the elderly man. It’s consistently putting forward that servant heart that reaps blessings. Ensure helping others is part of your agenda. Always leave time to help and don’t offer help if you’re not going to follow through.

Value people. People want to be appreciated not impressed. Consistently learn to add value to your own life. Learn a new skill. Gain experience in a new area. Study personal growth. When you improve, you’re better able to improve those around you.

Ask others to tell you their story. This allows them to speak of their dreams, successes, failures, loves and losses. This is where connection begins. Then remember the story you’re told. Repeat it to others and the person who told you the story will feel special. Three simple steps; ask, listen, remember.

People love a good story. Stories stick. Principles fade. So, tell a story but don’t lie. If it’s a story about something that happened, make it interesting but keep it true. A good story comes across as enthusiastic, animated, humorous, and personal. He who tells the best story, holds the greatest attention in the room. The idea isn’t to impress but connect.

A story from the heart, even if sad, can change someone’s life if you add steps on how to move beyond. And if you’re going to tell a story; be bold. Timidity puts people off.

Memorise people’s names; it encourages them and helps them feel important. It also enlarges their view of you. Even the local store owner, or postie. Get to know them and remember their names. How do you remember a name? Repeat it in your head three times. Perhaps ask how it’s spelt (thus reinforcing the name to you). View the person’s most dominant feature. This will aid with recall later. And end the conversation by stating the name. Go easy on yourself if you forget. It’s not the end of the world.

Focus on people’s strengths, yourself included. It doesn’t add any value to point out weakness. Look for the best in others. Lift people up by letting them know you believe in them. Tell them. If you don’t say it, how will they know it.

Take the time to hand write a note to someone, something encouraging, something which points to their strengths, value and worth. Personal touch carries great meaning. The price of a hand written letter of encouragement cannot be understated, especially in today’s fast track world.

Help another person to win. Holding great expectations for the other person is a good place to start. When a person knows you believe in them, they’ll do their best to live up to your expectations. “Hope” is one of the most powerful words you can carry and give. Hope gives a person the power to keep fighting.

Wins are only satisfying when you work for them. The greater the task, the greater the feel of accomplishment. Your job is to lift others to ensure they reach the pinnacle.

Teach what you learn, encourage others, give of yourself and do your best. A good life isn’t in the absence of problems but the ability to push past those problems. Practice until you master and help others along the way.

Leadership Through The Eyes Of Nehemiah.

Leadership through the eyes of Nehemiah.

I can only have a positive influence on others insofar as I willingly submit myself to His Lordship – Chuck Swindoll.

Four hundred years before Nehemiah, in Deuteronomy, God warned the Israelite people of their fate if they did not heed God and do what was right. They didn’t repent, nor change their ways and were eventually led into captivity, and the prophesy worked its way into their lives.

Jerusalem’s walls fell because the people turned aside and did not follow the commands of God. Nehemiah went back to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls. Chuck Swindoll teaches on Nehemiah’s leading and sets four building plans in place, not for hard walls but for spiritual walls;

1. Nehemiah maintained genuine concern for the condition of the walls.

2. Recognise you can’t repair walls by yourself. You need help.

3. Go to God for guidance and correction.

4. Honestly face the situation and determine to stick with it until complete.

Take a moment to survey your walls. Are they still standing? What are your strengths and where do you struggle? What character areas can you improve on? Where is your growth still unfolding? Be honest and commit yourself to work with God in rebuilding your walls.

Your walls should look like the life of Christ and this will equip you to lead those in your sphere of influence. Concern for your town and the people within its walls should lead you to pray for them. Also, look to yourself. Are you part of the problem?

As a leader, you will know intuitively when you’ve taken a wrong step. You’ll feel something isn’t right. Prayer is like a compass pointing the way forward. When things aren’t right; pray.

1. Are you feeling lost; prayer will clear your vision for God’s purpose.

2. Are you feeling anxious; prayer quiets the heart.

3. Are you feeling impatient; prayer leans towards God’s timing.

4. Are you feeling hesitant; prayer activates faith for decisive action.

Rocky roads, broken walls, sinful hearts; stubborn people will stand in your way. Hindrances didn’t cause Nehemiah to be swayed. He stayed true to his path, his calling. He did so by following God on his knees every step of the way.

Don’t lose sight of God. Pray. And don’t stop there. Nehemiah wasn’t only praying; he was also planning. Pray. Set your goals. Think through the hurdles set before you. Look long term. Don’t try for shortcuts.

You can’t be a top athlete without practice. Nor a musician, nor anything of worth and value. Keep practicing until you are top in your field. And if you want to make a difference in the world, listen to what’s going on around you. What upsets you? What injustice causes you to become agitated? Do your part and pray for direction.

Remember; when you walk by faith you will encounter hostility. Those who walk not by faith but by sight will feel the rebuke of God and will take offence at your faith. Opposition isn’t a sign you’ve strayed from God’s path – it’s often the evidence that you’re walking right in it. The resistance arises not because you’re off course, but because you’re aligned with diving purpose. Prayerfully plan how to serve the people and the city.

You can’t speak of faith if you don’t have a plan. Patience and preparation will work its way. Human preparation in prayer and communion with God aligns the leader’s heart and plans to God’s will and way. Planning requires more than prayer, however prayer and waiting sit side by side. Opposition to the plan doesn’t hinder it but only reinforces the will of God.

“Father work in me to prepare me for what’s next. I want to cooperate with You in your plan for my life.”

Nehemiah starts to rebuild the wall and everyone moved to action. Why? Because Nehemiah prayed for God’s will in this situation first, then he appealed to the zeal of the people.

Don’t be side-tracked. Don’t take your eyes off God; not in public, not in private and particularly not when under attack. You may feel like quitting, but don’t stop. Ever. And when faced with criticism from others; pray. Get down on your knees in business, home, school, church and anywhere else you might find yourself.

To apply truth, you must know the truth. You’ll only know the truth when you read the word. Have a crystal-clear vision of what you’re after and take time to read what the scriptures say on the matter. There will be opposition, just as Nehemiah had in building the wall, so will you have opposition in bringing forth your vision. Nehemiah didn’t stop to argue with his detractors, he continued ploughing on.

We must look at criticism, since Nehemiah had much of it at this time. Not all criticism is destructive criticism. One needs to measure a criticism to see if it’s worth listening to. You have to determine the motive of the person behind the criticism. Given by the right person, some criticism is the best thing for you.

You cannot lead without facing criticism or opposition. When it happens, pray about it. If, in your prayer time, you’re given an action to take, make sure you take it. When faced with criticism focus on how you will respond. Pray. Trust God. Follow His leading.

“Father, help me face criticism for my words and actions but also give me wisdom to discern the constructive from the destructive. Help me grow into a better disciple of Christ. Even in choppy waters, help me to look to You.”

Don’t get weary and discouraged. Don’t lose your strength and zeal for your vision. A healthy community won’t easily be pulled down, however on occasion, infection can enter and before you know it, the whole community is ill. This can be both physical and spiritual. Infection is insidious and threatens to tear down any community.

Discouragement, known as the silent killer, is often invisible to others but by the time you notice, it’s spread throughout. Apply the cure (prayer) before the disease takes hold.

Discouragement can be alleviated by directing people’s attention to the Lord, for He is our security. Unify people around a common goal, for clear vision stops one losing their way. Encourage people to maintain a balanced life. Gather people together. A community that pulls together stays strong. Encourage others to step into service, for in lifting others, they rise above self-focus and discover a deeper confidence.

Take note of when and if you sense the discouragement of those around you. Try to find out the cause of it and work towards fixing the issues that have arisen. What practical steps can be applied and what example can you set in place for those around you to learn and grow through.

If morale within the ranks is falling, pray. Not flippant prayers but prayers with meaning and compassion behind them. Compassion is the channel through which effectiveness is born. Take note of what people are saying. Turn hearts to repentance if that’s what’s needed. Rebuke sinful behaviour with gentleness. Correction, carried out adroitly, can make a huge difference.

Get into God’s word. Find out what it says on the matter. Read the passage slowly and repeatedly until you can identity each and every detail. Generally, there’s one central question that could be asked with each passage; what does this passage say?

Four areas to be aware so not to be tempted in self-serving; privilege, policies, projects, people. Don’t abuse them, don’t neglect them, don’t ignore them and don’t forget them.

There may be some areas of leadership which you tend to avoid. Avoiding any issue doesn’t make it go away. Hit these areas head on.

There’s power in the word of the tongue. It’s also the number one enemy of unity. If you wish to have unity in the home or workplace, consider your words wisely.

Words are not always innocent. There’s a danger in using them unwisely. Wickedness and corruption start small and grow large. You can set someone ablaze with the fire to move their mountain, if only you manage your words skilfully.

Satan uses words too. He’ll tempt, lie, and twist facts. He’ll make your life a misery if you listen to his words. Kick him out, right from the start. Don’t listen to his lies. The enemy of God will do whatever it takes to keep you in a place of defeat. A fib here, a falsehood there, a whisper of untruth, a sprinkle of deceit and you’ll soon have drifted far off course.

Nehemiah allowed wisdom to guide him when the enemies brought lies into the camp. If you don’t know what to do, ask Holy Spirit for Godly wisdom. If you want to extinguish the lies of the great deceiver, turn to the word of God and believe, truly believe what the word tells you.

You’ll never walk by faith without enemy attack. Expect it and have the answer at the ready when the deceiver draws your attention away from the task at hand.

As you face hot fires sparked by evil tongues, calmly deny the charge. Put the blame back where it belongs and take your pain to the Healer. On a personal note here; someone close to me said I can’t be learning anything useful with my head always in the bible. I had to take those hurtful words and consider them. In prayer I asked God how to respond. He showed me a vision that this person would in time see their error. God would show the person all the good I’ve done in my prayer time. Good for the area I pray over, for the church I pray within, for the nation in which I pray and for the global advancement of His kingdom.

I didn’t allow that negative comment to throw me off track and you shouldn’t either. Deception, manipulation, intimidation and gossip thwart God’s plan for your life. Don’t be swayed. Keep to the task at hand. Verbal conflict can be resolved, wounds treated and healed, when done in the power of God’s might. Let the healing process begin.

Nehemiah offers opportunity for self-examination; how have you been using your words? Have you been honest in all things? Has this helped or hindered your work? How can you change your vocabulary to honour God, your family, your life and the life of the company you work for, or school you attend?

Without kindling, a spark will go out. Choose your kindling wisely – it will shape the flame that touches others. Truth needs to be at the forefront. Nehemiah cared about the walls of Jerusalem but he also cared about the people within the city. He rebuilt the walls carefully and meticulously with tools and timbers and then the people, with carefully crafted words.

We are in a famine. Frankly, it’s difficult to find faithful exposition of the scriptures today. Sermons are not always accurate and reverent. Instead of letting the Word speak for itself, some preaching leans on personal opinion or entertainment of topical trends which can dilute the message. Pastor Charles Spurgeon quotes; “I do not say that out of judgement. I say that out of an ache in my heart. People all over the world are hungry for the teaching of God’s Word.”

God’s word carries wisdom. It informs and instructs. No life is complete without spiritual dimension. No input or dimension is complete without scripture. And to rejoice is a practice and privileged - it’s the fuel for the destination. Rejoice every day.

Joy is an essential thread in the fabric of life. Life flourishes when joy finds a place to settle in our hearts. Joy isn’t just a luxury – it’s a vital part of living fully. Pray for joy; for yourself and those around you.

Insight is needed alongside wisdom. You can have all the knowledge you need but if you don’t have the insight to apply it, it’s no use. Insight is essential for health. Putting bible knowledge into action via insight leads to a godly life. Attaining insight is a difficult job, but with patience and a willing spirit, insight will come, especially if you ask God for it. True insight comes from God alone and it can be worked into every area of your life.

If you’re seeking insight read what you’re trying to understand slowly and carefully. Repeat and repeat again until you uncover hidden details. Interpretation and insight go hand in hand. Without understanding and meaning you won’t be able to respond appropriately. Look up insight and knowledge and learn the subtle differences between the two.

Gaining insight is like any other area we need to strengthen; it takes practice to master the art. Insight needs the right amount of structured, scheduled consistent time. The right mentors, teachers and pastors. The right amount of teachability, humility and attitude. The right source; i.e.; God’s word and the right response; complete obedience.

Building the wall didn’t happen in isolation, it was a community effort. In bringing the people into spiritual alignment, Nehemiah and other Jewish leaders brought back a passion for the law of Moses. In their zeal and compassion, it transferred to the people and the people responded.

Thankfully Nehemiah shows us how to begin again in a relationship with God. He looked up in praise of who God was. He looked back and recalled God’s faithfulness. He looks at the present and made known his requests to God and he looked ahead, committing himself to the pursuit of God.

Time; life’s great equalizer. We all have 1,440 minutes in a day. What will you do with the time you have? Will you waste it or make the most of it? How can you lead effectively if you’re wasting your time? Ensure your calendar reflects your values. Give God the time He deserves.

I read once; “Time is God’s gift to you. What you do with your time is your gift to God.” Time is precious. Don’t waste it. “Lord, reorder my time, so I can grow closer to you and do your will.”

Godly priorities mean serious thought and planning. Written plans are less likely to be thwarted, forgotten and pushed aside. What are your top priorities in life? Are you working towards them every day? On a personal note; I heard about writing a plan. It took me two years before I actually considered implementing it. Two wasted years because once I wrote my plan, things moved forward with less effort and greater effectiveness. I could have been on track two years earlier.

The Lord asks us to serve, whether employee or employer, whether in the family or in the community. We are the hands and feet of Christ. We serve and give Christ the glory. Every labour done in love is recalled by God. Our final reward is based on personal faithfulness.

Do you ever ask the question – can God use me? Undoubtedly. He can. He wants you to serve Him. Perhaps the question isn’t can God use me but in what way can I serve God?

There are unknowns in life. Not the unknowns of life but the unknown people who stand in the background giving you all their support. They’re in your church, your job, your school, your neighbourhood. Remember to acknowledge these servants who give you so much of themselves.

Personal happiness shouldn’t be your sole pursuit. People are hurting everywhere in this world. Happiness is fleeting. It’s joy that you’re after, the joy that surpasses all understanding and that joy comes when you bless others.

If you can attain joy, even in dire circumstances, you’re a beacon of hope to others. If you’re called out of your comfort zone to live where you wouldn’t choose to live; be joyous. Be excited, sing and dance. Show the joy of the Lord on all occasions. You’ll never know the impact you’ll have.

As a Christian we must strive to ensure an atmosphere of delight. Joy has far reaching effects that you’ll probably never see but it sure is nice to be a blessing to others. You can create joy, for joy isn’t dependent on outside influences but inward focus. And if you’re struggling to find joy music helps elevate moods but only if you’re listening to the right kind of music. Don’t listen to music which speaks on death and despair.

You need guts and gristle to overcome in this life. The fierce courage and inner steel required to say no when it matters most. Or yes, when it’s required. You need strategy and foresight, relational savviness and an understanding of finances, integrity, honesty, commitment and devotion to become a good leader. Most of all, you need to be on your knees in prayer.

And when you get mad, ask yourself; is it the other guy your mad at or is it really yourself? Remember, we need to correct our own sin before confronting the sins of others. If you have sin, address if first. Have an action plan with steps and principles in place. Repair any damage you’ve caused through your own sin.

Repent, forgive (forgive others, forgive yourself) and believe. These are a few of the keys to successful living.

Brainstorm Your Way To Success.

To brainstorm is to come up with new and inventive ideas, not only for the betterment of one’s life, but also for difficult issues which may arise in one’s life. New inventions are often thought up during brainstorming sessions and it’s good to have other people sit at the table pitching their ideas, bringing a diversity of creativity.

No idea is a bad idea. Just let the ideas flow and choose the one that’s best for the concern you’re dealing with. If you feel you don’t have time for a brainstorming session, snatch the time when engaged in other activities which don’t require a lot of thought, such as in the shower, or walking the dog.

You might have a boring job, one that’s done automatically and by rote. While at this mundane job, perhaps you could try using your time to brainstorm concepts for wealth creation, healthier living, improved relationships, or new and better positions in life, coming up with new and exciting ideas.

Even at home there’s areas in which you work where you can utilize your mind to become more effective: While you exercise, hang the laundry, mow the lawn. Even a 20-minute meditation can be of value.

 Mostly our life comes into 7 categories. These areas are often referred to as the “7 F’s.” Faith, family, fitness, finances, friends, fun and function (employment). Each of these areas can all be improved upon and some need more work than others. Each area will be at a different level, for different people.

If your job is pretty mundane; i.e., doesn’t take a lot thought to do, make use of your mind. If you work 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, that’s 40 hours of automatic action. That’s 40 hours every week you could be using your mind more effectively to think up new ways to improve your life.

Some jobs require using the mind a lot; accountants, lawyers, areas of interaction with others and the like. There are jobs though, like dishwashing, or lawnmowing, which don’t take a lot of thought. You can put this kind of job to better use by making better use of this time while you’re at it. That’s not to say these are bad jobs. You don’t have to be unhappy with your chosen vocation. All you need to do is be wise with that time.

Perhaps you’d like to work on a different issue than vocation. Perhaps this time could be used to consider ways to improve relationships, or perhaps learn a new language. What I’m saying is, don’t waste valuable time in mindless activities. Put that automatic rote to your advantage.

Let’s face it, we all have areas in life we could improve upon. If we begin to make the best use of our time, when the mind isn’t engaged in other activities, our life can be improved enormously. To do this, we need to be asking the right questions.

It’s no use worrying about why you don’t have any money. Instead, ask yourself how can you get more money. Or; what can I do today, to improve my relationship with … (insert name)?

Perhaps it’s another issue in life you may have. Ask yourself the right question and expect your mind to bring forth the answer, because it will, if you ponder the question long enough.

Did you know if you spend only 15 minutes once a week studying wealth creation, in a year you’ll have more knowledge than most people on the planet about the topic? That’s because hardly anyone does it.

Most people complain about not having enough money, but hardly anyone studies why. It’s the same for other avenues in life: building a business, maintaining relationships, having good health. If you spend just 15 minutes a week, you can become an expert in any field, in next no time.

Perhaps instead of lamenting the status quo, you could question and educate yourself on the topic so you can find the right answer and overcome the issue you’re facing.

Put a spotlight on the problem and laser focus on the issue, drawing out all the colours, until you have the big picture in mind and come up with an answer. And then act. Action is the key to great results.

Many people believe earth is the learning school of life and we are meant to be overcomer’s in whatever area we find ourselves lacking. Once you know your area of weakness, find a way to strengthen yourself. Turn your weakness into your strength. Learn how to overcome and then be

 the best version of yourself, that you can be.

And remember the spiritual side of life. Life is more than what we see, feel, touch. There’s another element which can’t be ignored if you want the very best results.

Holy Spirit.

Holy Spirit; the word and the spirit – together. We know this because Jesus left so the Holy Spirit could come. He and Holy Spirit couldn’t be here at the same time.

When we struggle, Holy Spirit is the answer.

Faith goes up the stairs that love has built and looks out the window that hope has opened - Charles Spurgeon.

Just as your car can run dry of fuel and water, so can you run dry, which leaves you open to burn out. The more you go to church, the sooner your tank will be filled.

Psalm 16:3 As for the saints who are on the earth, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all My delight. That’s you and me, folks. We are the delight of the Lord.

Holy Spirit broods over chaos. Whatever the chaos in your life, Holy Spirit can fix it. All you have to do is ask. Holy Spirit brings beauty, life, order and wonder to creation. Holy Spirit brings supernatural help and council.

If you have a fragmented soul, you haven’t been in touch with Holy Spirit. If you were touched by Holy Spirit you wouldn’t be fragmented, you’d be whole.

When in spiritual decline, your temple is easily torn down, easily broken. Sin leads to destruction. Don’t ignore the warning signs. You’ll see them, as things won’t be working the way they should.

When you turn away from God, destruction follows so, do a 180 and turn back to the only one who can save you; The Great and Almighty I Am.

The Tabernacle Prayer.

I questioned whether the tabernacle prayer was needed today. Since Jesus died, do we really need the tabernacle of the old testament, especially since we ourselves are the tabernacle? I find it quite amazing that if you have the question, life conspires to answer it; or if you will – God answers your question.

After posing the question, I began to notice you tube clips pop up with exactly what I had asked; Tabernacle prayer and is it necessary. Plenty of clips on the subject came before me and I was left in no doubt; while one can get by without it, it sure does make a difference when you use it.

How do I know? - I experimented. I ended up learning more about it and then doing it and watching for the results to see if they were more effective and I must say; yes, they are more effective. I’ve had great success using this method. That’s not to say it’s the only method to successful prayer but it has made a difference to my life. So, with that in mind, I put forth this tabernacle prayer so you too can give it a try and see for yourself if you get greater results.

Having said that, there is no formula to prayer. The best thing you can do is have a relationship with God. God will answer prayer but I have found this to help. My prayer is:

“Wonderful Councillor Holy spirit, I welcome you. Precious Jesus, I welcome you. Father God, I welcome you. I lift up my gates and open my doors (eyes, ears, heart, mind) to make room for You.”

Confess your sins in the tabernacle of your heart and at the brazen alter immerse yourself in His blood. “Jesus you have made me righteous. I praise the blood that brings healing, delivers us from the curse and delivers us from hell.”

See yourself at the bronze laver (a large basin for ritual washing of hands and face) look at your reflection and as you do and consider the 10 commandments. When ready, begin your prayer. “Please, oh God, forgive me. God, you are my Lord and I am your servant, sanctify me. No one is perfect, temptation is always before me. Satan is always at the door. Protect me, purify me and sanctify my spirit.” We are weak vessels and we must do everything to protect ourselves.

“Lord, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Deliver me from greed and lust. Deliver me from hatred.” (When you harbour hatred, you don’t get healed.) Confess bitterness and hatred. Don’t exaggerate, don’t lie.

Forgiveness has extraordinary power. Forgive others. Forgive yourself. Forgive God. Then love.

“Help me be humble and gentle. Sanctify me oh Lord.” We are attacked by satan in the middle of the battle. We are at war. Sanctification is necessary. Sanctification is often what’s lacking, so be sure to ask for it if you want a positive outcome in your prayer life. (What is sanctification? The process by which God progressively makes a believer holy and we arrive at sanctification more rapidly when we spend time with God.)

The golden lampstand, written about in the bible, is the symbol of the Holy Spirit. Worship the Holy Spirit. Don’t neglect the third member of the Trinity. “Holy Spirit, grant me wisdom, understanding and the council of the spirit of the fear of the Lord.” Be sure to have a personal fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Walk with the Holy Spirit. When you get up in the morning say; “Holy Spirit let’s go.”

“Thank you, Holy Spirit. Thank you so much. Holy Spirit. I acknowledge you and I thank you for what you’re doing in my life. I adore you. I made mistakes yesterday but you corrected everything.” Don’t ignore the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a person not a thing. Build a relationship with this person. Commune and partner with the Holy Spirit. Always consult the Holy Spirit. And when you pray, stay in place until He speaks – wait for Him.

Men praise your wife. Women, praise your husband. Find the good things they have and praise them. And don’t stop there. Praise God for all the good in your life. Praise Him that He is working on your issues. When you praise, it’s nourishment for the soul.

Ask for God’s word for each person you come in contact with today. Ask Him for the rhema word for it communicates faith. People need rhema to solve their problems. A word straight from God, not just from the bible. A word spoken from God not just written.

We must have ears to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit. We must hear not only the logos (read your bible out loud) word but also the rhema word of God. Pray until you hear the voice of God. Don’t solely rely on the written word. God will transform the logo into rhema if you wait for Him. Pray until the Spirit speaks. And then, when you speak to people, they will know God is speaking to them through you because the word given will exactly line up with what they’re going through.

We were given entry through the veil so we can stand by the ark of the covenant. The very place where the blood cancels the law and all condemnation. Remember we are justified and saved by the blood in the holy of holies. “God open my understanding.”

While in the holy of holies, present all your prayer requests. Allow up to 30 minutes if possible. Have a well-defined course in prayer as this will make the prayer powerful. Yes, there are days we’re just too busy but at least try for 30 minutes whenever possible.

The Israelites were commanded to pray by the tabernacle model. Today you are the tabernacle. The tabernacle uses symbols of the old testament as a guide for you move through the different areas, ensuring you connect with God in a more meaningful way. Come to the cross of Jesus. Worship, confess your sins and put forth your prayer requests.

What is Tabernacle prayer? It’s to pray to the model of tabernacle. A visual symbol of guidance for the Christian who holds the tabernacle within.

The brazen alter, which represents the cross, a place of repentance. The shewbread, which is the Word of God. The golden lampstand of the Holy Spirit where we give thanks, praise and worship. The alter of incense, being intercession and prayer. Then enter the holy of holies where the ark of the convent resides; the presence of God Himself and where the blood of Jesus covers the mercy seat. See yourself walking in through the curtain which was torn so you could freely enter. Worship the Father.

Renew your mind, continue to read your bible, so as to reach others. If your spirit is blocked by disobedience you won’t hear from God. Keep doing what is right and He will show you favour. If you’re not sure about something you’re doing, ask yourself if Jesus would do it.

If Jesus wouldn’t do it, you shouldn’t do it.

Then bless people and love people. All people.

Remember the kingdom of God is within us.

We are the kingdom of God. Wherever we go, kingdom goes with us.

While there’s a lot more depth to the symbols of the tabernacle, for this article, it’s enough. I would encourage the reader to delve more deeply into this topic as this has only scratched the surface.

Godly Random Thoughts, Tips and Snippets. 2.

Godly Random Thoughts, Tips and Snippets 2.

It costs no more to be tactful and gracious than it does to be critical and caustic. In reaching out to others, be gentle and humble as you guide them to and along the correct path.

Life's not as simple as; I'm right and you're wrong. It's more like; I see it this way and you see it that way. Before you go to war, ask yourself; is it better to correct or connect?

In your car, you have both AM and FM frequencies. You can only listen to one or the other, even though you have both options. When we ask anything of God, we need to ask in faith and not doubt. We have both options but can only choose one. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways. He cannot expect to receive anything from the Lord.

How do you believe in God when all hell breaks loose? I dare not believe.

Perception's not a window, it's a mirror; what you believe will look back at you. Have you considered the possibility of changing your perception?

If you notice, beautiful people, I'm talking character not looks. Your perception of yourself is usually in alignment with what’s reflected back at you from the mirror. If all you see is hateful people, perhaps you might consider what you believe about yourself. If all you see is hatred for yourself, perhaps this is a time and place to change your perception. Work on what you can control and let God work on what you can’t.

How you perceive God works in just the same manner. A negative perception of God could also be a result of your upbringing. Don't you owe it to yourself to look deeply into the matter and not just accept the status quo, or your parent's view, or that of those you hang around?

Luke, the Greek from Antioch. A cultured man, well versed in history, who wrote over one quarter of the new testament. A doctor and a gentile.

Paper wasn't invented in Luke's day. Writing was done on papyrus; small sheets 10 inches by 12. Papyrus was expensive. Luke had to be thoughtful and selective about what he would put in and what he would leave out of his written work.

Luke gave stories which affected him the most; 13 more stories than what was written in the other gospels. (I give stories that affect me the most also.)

Luke wrote about having concern for others. He wrote of value and character, giving strength to what matters. Before you embark on a matter, count the cost; to follow Christ means you will have war, even with just sin and self.

Recognise yourself as a sinner, imperfect and impure before God. Uselessness invites disaster, bearing no fruit, taking all, giving nothing. Meditate and wait patiently until you hear from God, until God gives you direction. Then you shall bear good fruit.

The Christian life is one of servanthood, humility and love. Seek and search for the love of God. When one deliberately chooses to be 'lost' whether through someone else's fault or their own, we must seek and find and bring that one into the fold, just as Christ did.

Do you love men as God loves men? Will you seek the lost as He sought them?

Kingship is expressed, not in glory but in sacrifice.

David was chased for many months. Every time David prayed God answered. David strengthened himself in the Lord and when we're knocked down, we are to strengthen ourselves.

It only needs to be a small crack in the armour for the enemy to enter. God builds His people, often through adversity. Turn, look up and worship in times of difficulty.

Turn to Him, not away from Him. Not doubting, but knowing in our heart that He will stand with us and bring us through the trial.

If the devil cannot destroy you, he will try to wear you out. Be sure to look after yourself, for it's when we're tired that we're vulnerable.

And remember; sin is a blockage to hearing from God.

Courage doesn't always roar. It often whispers in the quiet; “I will stand again tomorrow.” Like Elijah beneath the broom tree or Esther in the silence before her plea, true courage sometimes moves in stillness, anchored not in noise but in resolve.

Look for anticipation and excitement in your relationship to the Trinity. Prepare yourself to meet the Trinity each day with a fervent heart, not a rushed one.

Jesus got up early to pray. if He needed to do it, how much more us?

Be willing when He tells you to do something.

In your quiet times don't allow distraction. Turn off all devices.

There's more evidence that Jesus existed than that of Caesar.

The King of the Jews was actually crowned by the Romans, even though they meant it in jest. That crowning was the greatest moment in the history of the earth.

To be part of the kingdom movement we need to deny self, take up our cross and follow Him.

What does it mean; to take up our cross and follow Him? In His time, the cross wasn’t a metaphor but a brutal reality. When Jesus spoke the words, “Take up your cross and follow Me,” it was a summons into radical discipleship, inviting His followers into self-denial, sacrificial love and total surrender. It’s a laying down of personal ambitions, comforts and even reputation, to live in obedience to Christ.

You can do His will and still have a hard heart.

God dispenses justice. If there is no judgement there would have been no need of a saviour.

The words “thank you” have the power to transform health, bring happiness and aid in success. Gratitude improves heart rhythm, reduces stress and helps our thinking process. It uplifts and energises. Remember to give thanks.

The lame man from the pool of Bethsaida couldn’t save himself. He also had no one to help him into the pool. It’s not always lameness. It might be addiction, depression, illness, poverty, loneliness, shame, guilt. Just like the lame man, in your dwindling hope and faith, you cannot save yourself. Only the Great Healer – Jesus - can do that. Ask Jesus to heal you and set you free.

Comfort and success can draw you away from God. When this happens; confess and repent.

You can’t just jump across a border. When God sets boundaries it’s up to you to stay within them. You choose spiritual death by turning aside from God. When you die spiritually you also begin to die physically. You feel empty. Marriage’s fall apart, you bear no fruit, you become ill.

Look at the true believer. They may have their own problems but they don’t turn aside from God. They don’t cross any borders. They stay within the boundaries and limits God sets. They believe God is good, even in a bad situation. They will, in time, bear fruit. They can’t not. Like Ruth and Naomi; the harvest will come if you follow the right pathways. Naomi returned and her emptiness was filled.

Chosen people bring others out of darkness and into the light. The promises of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob are also our promises. If you hold these promises you will be blessed and the people around you will be blessed. God’s choice in us, secures our hope. If you think you’re weak, remember; God chooses the weak to confound the wise and He does it through Christ.

Christ, the true Jacob. Christ, the true heir of the promise. Christ; despised, rejected, crucified. Christ, humility, holiness and hope. Christ; chosen for us to be a blessing and for us to be blessed. Christ, God’s sovereign purpose. Our job is to declare the excellencies of God through Christ. 

The Bitterness of Wormwood.

What Is Wormwood?

Wormwood refers to a bitter herb known for its sharp, unpleasant taste. In Scripture, it’s not just a plant—it’s a metaphor for anguish, judgment, and the consequences of turning away from divine truth. Wormwood seems to show up in times of trouble throughout the biblical era; denoting bitterness and suffering.

In Lamentations 3:19–20, the prophet cries out: “Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall…” This imagery musters deep emotions, grief and spiritual pain. Wormwood, in this instance, becomes a poetic symbol of despair and exile.

In Jeremiah 9:15, God declares: “I will feed them, this people, with wormwood…” This is not exactly punishment for punishment’s sake, it’s a divine response to persistent rebellion. Wormwood makes its mark with the stamp of bitter fruit on injustice and idolatry.

In Revelation 8:10–11 it states; a star named Wormwood falls from heaven, turning waters bitter and causing death. A dramatic image signalling cosmic judgment. Certainly, a wake-up call to humanity about the cost of spiritual corruption.

Proverbs 5:4 uses wormwood to describe the end of seductive sin, or moral corruption. “But in the end, she is bitter as wormwood…” A warning sign, that what seems sweet in the moment, may lead to ruin.

Wormwood is also a prophetic invitation, to examine bitterness within: Are there roots of resentment, grief, or spiritual numbness that need healing? Bitterness can be a signpost guiding us to seek the restoration of mercy, justice, and divine alignment. To embrace repentance, wormwood here reminds us that healing begins with turning, or a returning to God’s heart, to community, to truth.

Even in the bitterest passages, scripture never leaves us without hope, for without hope all is lost. The same chapter in Lamentations that speaks of wormwood also declares: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end…” (Lamentations 3:22)

If you feel like you’re living in Worm Valley, know that it’s not the end of the story.

Ah, Worm Valley; an evocative phrase stirring up imagery that’s both haunting and deeply symbolic. While there’s no specific biblical location called “Worm Valley,” the concept draws heavily from the Valley of Hinnom (Gehenna) and prophetic texts like Isaiah 66:24 and Mark 9:48, where the worm becomes a symbol of unending decay and divine judgment.

Let’s walk through the end of that story; spiritually, symbolically, and redemptively.

The Valley of Worms, considered today as a place of reckoning.

In Isaiah 66:24, the final verse of the book, we read: “And they shall go out and look on the dead bodies of the men who have rebelled against Me. For their worm shall not die, their fire shall not be quenched, and they shall be an abhorrence to all flesh.”

This is not just a grim ending, it’s a cosmic punctuation mark. The “worm” here is not literal, but symbolic of unresolved corruption. The worm representing the consequences of rebellion and the decay that continues because healing was refused. It’s a perpetual memory. A memory of divine justice, a reminder of what happens when mercy is rejected.

While the worm does not die, the faithful are entering into worship and renewal. The valley is not the whole story—it’s the shadow that makes the light brilliant.

Jesus quotes a passage in Mark 9:48, warning that “their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.” He’s not describing a literal place of torment, but using Gehenna, a real valley outside Jerusalem once used for burning refuse and desecrated bodies, as a metaphor for spiritual ruin.

But even here, the story isn’t locked in despair. The end Is not the end. The worm may not die but the worship continues. Isaiah 66:23 ends not with the valley, but with a vision of all flesh worshiping God. From Sabbath to Sabbath, from new moon to new moon, the faithful gather in joy. A preparation of new heavens and new earth. Restoration unfolds beyond the valley. The worm is a warning, not a final word.

Remember; the valley you're in isn't the whole story. It's only in the shadows that the light can shine brilliantly. The light breaks forth only in the presence of the Lion of Judah. Only when we have communion with Him does illumination dawn.