Leading With Impact: The Power of Adding Value To Others

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In today’s business landscape, leaders often find themselves searching for the key to inspire their teams while driving success. This podcast episode beautifully unpacks the transformative power of “adding value”—a concept that integrates deeply rooted biblical principles into business practices. At its core, adding value is more than mere productivity; it’s about uplifting the lives of those you work with, creating a culture of growth and improvement. This philosophy resonates with the fundamental Christian teaching that focuses on servant leadership, emphasizing the importance of placing the needs of others before your own. 

From the outset, the podcast draws attention to the staggering potential all business leaders possess. By integrating these principles, leaders can have profound impacts not only on their employees but also on the entire organizational ecosystem. The episode makes a compelling case for how this impacts employee engagement and retention. When employees feel valued and appreciated, their productivity skyrockets. This is not just theory; it’s a fact backed up by countless studies that show a direct correlation between a positive workplace culture and overall business performance. Emphasizing this point, the conversation highlights how an employer’s commitment to cultivating an environment where employees feel heard, respected, and valued will not only improve morale but ultimately lead to a significant increase in retention rates. 

Further in the discussion, attention is turned to the biblical foundations that guide this approach to leadership. The host references Scriptures aimed at reinforcing the idea of servant leadership, letting listeners know that these foundational principles aren’t merely suggestions—they are mandates for Christian leaders. This focus on reflecting God’s love in business illustrates how the ethical treatment of employees can serve as a powerful testimony to outsiders. The world of business can often feel cutthroat and self-serving, but integrating compassion and integrity can position one’s business as a beacon of hope. When businesses operate with authenticity, they not only attract talent but also build loyalty in customers and clients who resonate with their mission.

A significant portion of the episode is devoted to exploring the areas in which listeners can add value. Each section articulates how value can be added mentally, physically, interpersonally, financially, and spiritually. The importance of mental growth, for example, is underlined by discussing the need for continuous learning and creating an atmosphere of emotional intelligence and positivity. Providing mentorships, training programs, and fostering a growth mindset are just a few methods outlined that can enrich the workforce. 

Moreover, leaders are encouraged to focus on their employees’ physical well-being. Strategies such as promoting wellness programs, encouraging work-life balance, and providing resources for mental health are delineated as necessary steps to uphold a healthy workplace. These considerations lay the groundwork for creating a culture that respects employee well-being, which ultimately influences performance and overall satisfaction within the workplace.

On the relational aspect, the podcast stresses the significance of fostering strong interpersonal connections. In a world where businesses sometimes prioritize profits over people, listeners are urged to develop meaningful relationships in the workplace through collaboration and community outreach. Mentorship plays a crucial role here, not only benefitting employees in their professional journeys but also strengthening personal bonds that can translate into a more cohesive work environment.

Furthermore, the conversation pivots to financial literacy, an often-overlooked area in leadership discussions. The importance of providing career growth opportunities and fair compensation resonates deeply and serves as a reminder that taking care of the financial aspects of employee lives is integral to comprehensive leadership. Techniques such as teaching effective financial stewardship reflect the holistic approach leaders must adopt to enrich the lives of those they manage.

Lastly, the episode delves into spiritual growth, sharing that fostering faith in the workplace is both legitimate and beneficial. The episode champions the idea of creating environments conducive to spiritual conversations and encouraging employees about their individual beliefs, thereby enhancing both purpose and fulfillment in their work. By providing avenues such as optional Bible study groups and prayer meetings, businesses can align their mission with a greater spiritual calling.

To wrap up, this podcast episode delivers a heartfelt call to action, inviting leaders to examine how they can embody these values in their work. The overarching message is clear: true success in business comes from serving others and adding value to their lives. By harnessing biblical principles, leaders can nurture an environment that creates lasting impacts. As they reflect on the closed doors of opportunity for evangelism in modern society, listeners are reminded that every act of kindness, integrity, and encouragement can have a ripple effect in their workplaces and the community at large.

Transforming Dysfunctional Teams with Biblical Leadership Strategies

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In today’s fast-paced business environment, recognizing a dysfunctional team can feel like an uphill battle, yet it is crucial for maintaining an efficient, productive workplace. Dysfunction manifests in numerous ways, from poor communication to a lack of trust among team members. As Christian business leaders, understanding these signs and implementing effective strategies rooted in biblical principles is vital for team success. This blog post delves into the issues at hand, using examples from popular sports teams and spiritual insights to guide you through identifying and rectifying dysfunction within your organization. 

Poor communication stands as one of the most significant indicators of dysfunction. When misunderstandings proliferate, transparency diminishes, and information is hoarded, the outcome is a toxic work environment. Teams that struggle to communicate may often find themselves embroiled in conflict, with power struggles ultimately clouding their ability to collaborate effectively. Indicators include frequent disagreements, cliques, and a general reluctance to express thoughts and feelings openly among team members. Therefore, creating open channels of communication is essential for maintaining a positive team culture. Regular meetings and promoting feedback can foster an environment where employees feel safe sharing their ideas and concerns, as reflected in Ephesians 4:29, which encourages us to communicate in ways that uplift. 

Low morale is another sign of dysfunction and can be attributed to numerous root causes. Employee engagement wanes when individuals feel undervalued or disconnected from their responsibilities. This disengagement often leads to absenteeism or a lack of enthusiasm in the workplace. Therefore, recognizing morale dips and taking action can help bring your team back to peak performance. Build a foundation of appreciation, recognizing individual contributions to uplift the collective spirit. Strategies like team-building activities help strengthen relationships and foster a culture of mutual respect—key facets of collaboration.

The lack of accountability within a team can lead to a ‘blame game’ mentality, where individuals fail to take ownership of their actions and their consequences. This environment can stifle productivity and progressive decision-making, robbing your team of its potential. Establishing clear expectations and maintaining consistent performance reviews are fundamental. Leaders must exemplify accountability and highlight its importance in their teams. By doing so, organizations can cultivate an environment of responsibility, ensuring that every team member knows their role and contributes meaningfully to the collective vision.

One major challenge faced by many organizations is the resistance to change. Whether due to long-held practices or fear of the unknown, being resistant to new strategies or processes can hamper progress. When change is necessary to adapt to evolving market conditions or internal dynamics, leaders need to facilitate this transition. Encourage adaptability among your team members; equipping them with new skills fosters innovation. Establishing a shared vision, illustrating the potential benefits of new ideas, and promoting a culture where experimentation is celebrated can ease these transitions.

Conflicts, if left unresolved, can create a breeding ground for dysfunction. The key is to address and resolve them quickly before tensions escalate. Use biblical teachings as a foundation for conflict resolution, drawing from passages such as Matthew 18:15-17, which guides us on addressing conflicts directly and constructively. Fostering an environment that welcomes constructive feedback and active listening will greatly enhance the team’s overall functioning.

In integrating these principles, we must recognize that building a high-performing team is not just about correcting dysfunction but about establishing a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As leaders, we have the power to initiate change. Like Jesus exemplified servant leadership, embodying integrity and humility must become integral to our approach. 

Ultimately, creating a cohesive team requires an unwavering commitment to growth—both personally and collectively. Embracing these faith-based principles will allow us to cultivate an environment where every team member flourishes and contributes to the overarching goals of the organization, leading to long-term success grounded in Christian values.

Unlock Leadership Strength By Developing Emotional Intelligence

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Emotional intelligence (EI) has emerged as a vital skill for effective leadership, blending the warmth of emotional understanding with the pragmatism needed in business. This episode dives deep into emotional intelligence, exploring its roots, critical components, and relevance for Christian leaders today. Drawing from both historical frameworks and practical applications, we see how leaders can harness EI to enhance their effectiveness and align their actions with biblical teachings.

Emotional intelligence can generally be broken down into five core competencies: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in fostering an environment where leaders can thrive and effectively support their teams. Starting with self-awareness, leaders must cultivate an understanding of their own emotions, strengths, and weaknesses, not just for personal growth but to positively impact those around them. The Bible often emphasizes knowing oneself as foundational to wisdom. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to keep our hearts with diligence, as our emotional state can greatly influence our actions and decisions.

Self-regulation remains another essential pillar of EI, allowing leaders to manage their emotions and maintain control over their reactions in challenging situations. Exemplifying Christ-like leadership demands patience and the ability to respond constructively under pressure. The wisdom found in Proverbs 16:32 serves as guidance: a person who is slow to anger is truly strong. Thus, practicing self-regulation leads to healthier interactions and more effective communication.

Motivation, the third component, underscores the importance of having a deep, intrinsic drive to achieve goals that align with God’s purpose. Leaders are called to inspire not only themselves but also their teams. Celebrating small victories along the way can cultivate resilience, as highlighted by the biblical encouragement found in Philippians 4:13, which states, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Recognizing our purpose and maintaining enthusiasm is key to sustaining our vision and effectiveness.

The power of empathy cannot be overstated. It fosters understanding and connection, enabling leaders to relate to their teams deeply. Proverbs 20:27 mentions that understanding others creates a stronger bond, aligning with the call to be compassionate and attentive listeners. Active listening and genuine curiosity about others’ experiences help leaders develop stronger rapport, essential in providing support and guidance in the workplace.

Finally, mastering social skills is foundational in ensuring that leaders can effectively navigate interactions and relationships. Communication is paramount, not just in addressing conflicts, but in building a positive culture. Well-structured communication, as advised in Ephesians 4:29, encourages growth and trust. Leaders who practice kindness and approachability foster environments that empower staff and create opportunities for collaboration.

In today’s ever-changing business landscape, the need for emotional intelligence is more critical than ever. With the rise of remote work, global teams, and a diverse workforce, leading with EI enables leaders to adapt and thrive in various contexts. By integrating these biblical principles into their approach, Christian leaders can embody Christ’s love, driving their organizations toward lasting success.

As we conclude, we remind ourselves that developing emotional intelligence is a journey that every leader should embark on. The intersection of business and biblical wisdom provides a robust framework for managing emotions and leading effectively. Importantly, it’s not merely about professional success; it’s a reflection of our commitment to serve others, creating a lasting impact on the people we lead and the communities we serve. By actively cultivating EI, we align our efforts with God’s plan, leading to true success from His perspective.

Unlock the Secret to an Open Workplace

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In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, trust and openness often emerge as the bedrock of successful organizations. Trust isn’t merely an abstract concept—it is a crucial determinant of productivity, employee satisfaction, and ultimately, a company’s bottom line. Recent statistics reveal a troubling statistic: only a small fraction of Americans express confidence in various institutions, including government and media. This lack of trust seeps into workplaces, eroding morale and stunting growth. By cultivating a culture of transparency and trust, organizations can unlock their full potential and create environments where employees feel empowered.

To initiate a cultural transformation towards trust, leaders must first acknowledge the existing barriers. Many organizations face a crisis of confidence stemming from miscommunication, lack of accountability, and a culture of secrecy. The stakes are high; low trust levels can lead to increased turnover, reduced employee engagement, and an environment fraught with unnecessary tension. A study published by the Harvard Business Review highlights that organizations with high levels of trust experience significantly greater employee engagement and productivity.

Incorporating key principles can help leaders create an atmosphere of trust. Consider the value of open communication channels. Organizations must prioritize guidelines for effective two-way communication, ensuring that information flows freely and can be acted upon by all team members. Encouraging open dialogue isn’t merely about leading conversations; it is about inviting diverse perspectives that can drive innovation. This ties back to the idea that employees should feel their voices matter, contributing to an inclusive culture of shared ownership.

Another foundational aspect of nurturing trust is acknowledging risk-taking. Inhibiting innovation by penalizing mistakes only stifles creativity. In contrast, nurturing an environment where employees feel secure enough to take calculated risks leads to breakthrough ideas that can transform an organization. In this regard, leaders must adopt an outlook that embraces failure as a stepping stone to achievement, fostering a culture where employees know they can explore new ideas without fear of retribution.

During our exploration of trust and openness, we revealed the consequences of not addressing conflicts in the workplace. Unresolved tensions among employees can manifest as increased turnover and a toxic work environment. Leaders need to view conflict as an issue to be resolved rather than a problem to be suppressed. This means addressing issues head-on and fostering healthy discussions that can lead to productive resolutions and growth.

Moreover, a culture of trust is not sustained solely through policies but must be reinforced by leaders’ behaviors. Consistency in your decisions and openness about motivations are key. Using transparent decision-making practices not only fosters trust but ensures that every member of the organization feels informed and valued. When leaders are open about their thought processes and decision-making rationales, employees are more likely to align with the company’s goals.

Day-to-day mechanisms also play an integral role in demonstrating a commitment to trust-building. Regularly acknowledging employees’ contributions is essential, as is creating platforms for feedback that travels in every direction. This ensures that everyone feels seen and heard. Similarly, fair and constructive recognition of successes leads to a passionate workforce eager for collaboration rather than competition.

Leadership’s role is critical in the journey towards fostering an open and trusting workplace culture. Trust begins at the top, where leaders must embrace their role as advocates for transparency and accountability. As pioneers of change, they set the tone for the rest of the organization, demonstrating what it means to be trustworthy.

Our episode culminated in enlightening stories and actionable strategies that both managers and employees can implement to enhance trust in their workplaces. While the journey begins with individual actions, the effect is organizational; an environment rich in trust breeds strong team dynamics, increased innovation, and overall success. As employees begin to trust each other—and the leadership—workplaces can transform into thriving communities equipped to tackle the most pressing challenges.

Breaking Free From Ruts: Transform Your Life and Business

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Getting stuck in a rut can happen to anyone at any point in their life or career. Whether it’s due to a lack of motivation, overwhelming circumstances, or spiritual disconnection, the feeling of being trapped can seep into various aspects of existence. In our latest podcast episode, we touched upon what it means to be in a rut and the ramifications it can have on mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. The journey toward breaking free starts with understanding the roots of stagnation and pinpointing how these challenges manifest in our lives, often unnoticed. Learning to recognize when you’re in a rut is a critical step toward recovery and renewal. 

The mental effects of feeling trapped in a rut are often the most subtle yet challenging to navigate. Individuals may experience decreased motivation, cognitive decline, and may spiral into negative thought patterns. This often results in self-doubt and lower self-esteem, exacerbating the sense of helplessness. Identifying these signs early on can put you on a proactive path toward healing. The emotional toll is equally significant; increased anxiety and stress can ensue, leading to irritability and strained relationships. When the weight of feeling stuck becomes unbearable, it’s essential to examine both emotional and relational dynamics to understand the bigger picture.

Physical repercussions often go hand-in-hand with emotional struggles. Fatigue, disrupted sleep, and declining health can stem from prolonged periods of being stuck in a rut. These factors can combine to create a dangerous cycle where mental and emotional well-being deteriorates, leading to a feeling of being trapped not just mentally, but physically. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach. Incorporating self-care practices into daily life can create a foundation for improvement. Simple actions such as exercise, meditation, and engaging in hobbies can help alleviate the stressors that contribute to being in a rut.

On a spiritual level, ruts impact faith profoundly. Many believers find themselves disconnected from God, questioning their purpose, and struggling with feelings of doubt and guilt. The importance of nurturing one’s relationship with God cannot be overstated, especially through prayer and reflection on scripture. One particularly salient note from our discussion highlights the need for church and community support. When believers isolate themselves from their faith community, they may experience heightening feelings of loneliness and despair. It’s crucial to remember that engaging with fellow believers can foster encouragement and accountability, helping to rekindle that spiritual flame.

Understanding why we enter ruts is essential, and some of the primary causes include a lack of clear goals, fear of failure, and negative thought patterns. Setting clear, achievable goals can provide direction and motivation to guide individuals out of stagnation. It’s equally vital to challenge negative thoughts, replacing them with positive affirmations. A consistent practice of positive self-talk can lead to a shift in mindset, reorienting the way we view challenges and setbacks.

To break free from a rut, listeners are encouraged to embrace new experiences. This approach not only alleviates feelings of boredom and dissatisfaction but also fosters personal growth. Engaging in new activities can help individuals discover talents and passions they never knew existed. Alongside this, persistence is key; setbacks may occur, but they should be viewed as learning opportunities rather than discouragements. Just as James 1:12 reminds us, patience under trial leads to blessings.

The key to moving forward lies in trusting in God’s plan and receiving the grace needed to navigate life’s complexities with resilience. Whether it’s through prayer, familiarizing oneself with the Word of God, or seeking community, breaking free from a rut involves both personal commitment and spiritual dependence. Listeners are invited to take small, meaningful steps toward revitalization, embracing the truth of hope and renewal that can restore clarity and purpose.

Creating Lift For You Business Or Organization

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In today’s ever-changing business landscape, leaders face constant challenges that can stifle their growth and innovation. At the core of success lies a powerful concept: creating lift in an organization, akin to what aerodynamics does for airplanes. This episode of Christian Business Concepts elaborates on how business leaders can harness biblical concepts to foster environments that inspire and motivate their teams, much like an aircraft soars effortlessly into the sky. Understanding lift and implementing these principles can lead to exceptional fulfillment and success rooted in God’s Word.

To begin, let’s delve into the essence of lift and its connection to effective leadership. Lift is that scientific force essential for an airplane’s flight, generated by the aircraft’s wings. In businesses, creating lift means nurturing a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated. Leaders should aim to uplift, inspire, and provide a sense of direction within their teams. The implementation of strategies that help create lift can significantly enhance performance and promote growth on personal, organizational, and spiritual levels.

One of the central biblical snippets shared in this episode was Isaiah 40:31, which beautifully illustrates that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength, allowing them to soar as eagles. This passage highlights that, like the principles outlined in Scripture, businesses can achieve heights of success that resonate with purpose. In Philippians 3:12-14, we are encouraged to forge ahead towards the goal God has set for us, continually pressing forward. This ethos is vital for business leaders; they must lead with a vision that aligns with divine principles while ensuring their teams are also moving towards shared goals.

We also explored how the shape and design of a wing affects its ability to produce lift. In a similar vein, business leaders must consider the organizational structure and strategies they put in place. A well-thought-out plan that accommodates the dynamics of the business environment makes a considerable difference. Just as wings need balance and stability in flight, leaders must maintain equilibrium between tradition and innovation, risk and caution. This careful crafting of organizational structures will ensure resilience even in turbulent times.

Adaptability was another core theme discussed. An aircraft adjusts its wings to respond to varying air conditions, demonstrating the importance of flexibility in leadership. Likewise, the most effective business leaders recognize the necessity to pivot and adjust strategies amid changes in market conditions, employee feedback, or technological advancements. As it’s noted in Philippians 4:11, being adaptable is a hallmark of successful leadership and essential for sustained growth.

Collaboration stood out as a vital element for creating lift in a business environment. Just as both wings and a plane’s tail work in coordination to allow for flight, so too must employees work together. Leaders should cultivate a cooperative atmosphere that thrives on diverse talents and perspectives; this diversity nurtures innovation. By establishing strong teamwork, collaborating will lead to a shared sense of ownership and accomplishment among team members.

In the latter portion of the episode, the significance of leadership’s airspeed was explored, revealing that momentum is key for driving initiatives forward. Leaders must maintain steady progress and foster a culture of action to propel their vision. In business, just like aviation, moving too slowly can lead to stagnation, and remaining agile in change is essential. Continuously seeking feedback from the market, employees, and stakeholders therefore becomes imperative to ensure the organization remains on the cutting edge of its initiatives.

Risk management versus risk assessment highlighted another critical area. Leaders must identify and assess the various risks associated with their strategies, ensuring that calculated risks do not lead to disastrous stalls. Proverbs 22:3 underscores the importance of foresight in navigating risks—a lesson directly pulled from aviation practices that keep aircraft soaring high.

A compelling angle introduced in this podcast is the angle of attack—how steeper inclines increase lift up to a point. Business leaders also need to strategically position their initiatives to maximize opportunities while being aware of the risks posed by overextension. Risk management comes into play once again here, encouraging leaders to find the right equilibrium that fosters growth and avoids setbacks.

Understanding the business environment is crucial, akin to air density affecting lift. Higher air density allows an aircraft to rise, just as leaders must ensure their organization has a conducive environment to thrive amidst economic trends, competition, and customer behavior. Investing in personnel, technology, and capital serves as vital resources needed for maximizing performance.

Ultimately, cultivating a supportive organizational culture will enhance a business’s ability to create lift. Leaders should encourage an inclusive environment where team members feel valued and empowered to collaborate actively. By focusing on sustainable growth, ensuring that strategies balance long-term viability with immediate gains is necessary for any organization aiming for impactful success.

In conclusion, the principles discussed in this episode showcase that effective leadership is both a science and an art. By establishing a foundation rooted in biblical teachings, leaders can foster an atmosphere where their organizations can elevate to new heights, creating lift that leads to genuine godly success while enriching the lives of their employees and community. Soaring beyond average is not only achievable—it’s the divine calling for each leader striving to fulfill their purpose with integrity and excellence.

TRUE GODLY SUCCESS

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True godly success is a concept that goes beyond the traditional measures of success such as wealth, power, and fame. It is about living a life that is aligned with the values and teachings of one’s faith, and finding fulfillment and purpose in serving others and making a positive impact on the world. In this blog, we will explore what true godly success means and provide examples of individuals who embody this concept in their lives.

What is True Godly Success?

True godly success is rooted in spiritual principles and values that transcend material wealth and worldly achievements. It is about living a life of integrity, compassion, humility, and service to others. True godly success is not measured by the size of one’s bank account or the number of accolades they have received, but by the depth of their character and the impact they have on the lives of others.

At the core of true godly success is a deep relationship with a higher power, whether it be God, Allah, or any other divine being. This relationship serves as a guiding force in one’s life, providing direction, purpose, and a sense of meaning. True godly success is about living in accordance with the teachings of one’s faith and using one’s talents and resources to make a positive difference in the world.

Examples of True Godly Success

Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa, also known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, is a shining example of true godly success. Despite having very little in terms of material possessions, Mother Teresa dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor in India. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, a religious congregation that provides care and support to the sick, orphaned, and dying.

Mother Teresa’s selfless devotion to the marginalized and vulnerable in society earned her worldwide acclaim and recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize. Her life exemplified the values of compassion, humility, and service to others, making her a true icon of godly success.

Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa and a prominent anti-apartheid activist, is another example of true godly success. Despite enduring decades of imprisonment and oppression, Mandela emerged as a symbol of forgiveness, reconciliation, and unity.

Mandela’s commitment to justice, equality, and peace led to the dismantling of the apartheid system and the establishment of a democratic and inclusive South Africa. His willingness to forgive his oppressors and work towards a better future for all exemplifies the true essence of godly success.

Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate, is a beacon of true godly success. Despite facing threats and violence for her advocacy work, Malala remained steadfast in her commitment to promoting education for girls around the world.

Malala’s courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her cause have inspired millions and brought global attention to the importance of education and gender equality. Her actions embody the values of courage, compassion, and service, making her a true role model for aspiring agents of godly success.

True godly success is about living a life of purpose, integrity, and service to others. It is not defined by worldly standards of success, but by the impact one has on the lives of others and the alignment of one’s actions with spiritual values and principles. Individuals like Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Yousafzai exemplify true godly success through their selfless dedication to making the world a better place. May their examples inspire us to seek true success in serving others and living a life of meaning and purpose.

Be sure download Harold’s podcast how the biblical principles of true success will work for you.

Control You Thinking And Change Your Life

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In today’s world of digital information we can receive data at the speed of light.  We live in a society in which we can see things live streaming in real time.  Unfortunately, not all of this data is good for us to digest.  It is so easy to allow our thinking to be influenced by all of the negative information that seems to flow towards us on a daily basis.  You’ve heard the adage, garbage in, garbage out, I’m sure.

How we think and what we think about is more important today that ever before.  

Bruce Lee said, “Do not allow negative thoughts to enter your mind for they are weeds that strangle confidence”

Begin to control your thinking and thought life and you will begin to control your life and your success.  Researchers have found that people who have positive thoughts and who control their thoughts live longer, live healthier, have more energy, are more successful, have less stress in their lives, have healthier relationships and make better decisions than those who allow negative thinking to run rampant in their minds.  

I love what Tony Dundee once said.  “Be positive.  You mind is more positive than you think.  What is down in the well comes up in the bucket. Fill yourself with positive things.”

Let me clear about what positive thinking is.  Positive thinking is not something you learn to do in order for you to never encounter problems, issues or obstacles.  Positive thinking is the tool we use to respond to these problems, issues and obstacles.  Doctor Charles Swindoll, noted author and pshycologist, said something over 30 years ago that has impacted my life in a powerful way.  He said that life consist of 10% what happens to us and 90% our attitude toward those things that happen to us.  As I have read about and studied people I find many who have been through similar horrific things in life.  Yet some have been able to overcome those situations and others have not.  I have the found that the difference between them is positive thinking. 

The Bible has a lot to say about our thinking, which is what I would like to focus.  As a person that has made Jesus Christ Lord of their life, I have found that the Bible gives me strength and direction for success.  Jesus said He came to give us life and give it to us in abundance.  I think His Word is the road map we need for abundant living.

In Romans chapter 8:5-7, Pauls says we are not to be conformed to this world, but we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.  The Greek word for transform is, metamorpho, and is a word the Greeks used to explain how a caterpillar changes into a a beautiful butterfly.  It is a complete change from one type of insect into a completely different one.  

Eph. 4:22-23 states we are to put off the old man, which is corrupt and be renewed in the spirit of our mind.  The NIV states it a different way and says we are to be renewed in the attitude of our minds.  The Jerusalem Bible says, “…your mind must be renovated by a spiritual revolution.”  

In Romans 7:23, Paul explains there is a struggle for control of our minds.  In Romans 8:5 Pauls explains that to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually mind is life and peace.  The key to controlling our thoughts is to transform our minds to think on things from a spiritual perspective.  In other words, we need to think God thoughts.  

Philippians 4:8 give us a list of things we should think about.  When negative thoughts come, and they will, take control and change those thoughts to something that aligns with God’s Word.  

In fact 2 Corinthians says, “casting down imaginations, and everything that exalted itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.”

Now, the quickest way to determine the health of your thought life is to take a day and pay attention to everything that comes out of your mouth.  You will speak out what you are thinking about.  If you have negative thoughts, negative speech will follow.  Matthew 12:34 says, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” 

I Peter 1:13 says, “…gird up the loins of your mind.”  I love the NIV interpretation of this scripture.  It says, “…prepare your minds for action: be self controlled.”

Take the time to change your thinking habits and get them in alignment with God’s Word.  If you will learn to do this and prepare your mind for action, I can promise you will find true success.

Remember, Jesus IS Lord and He WANTS you BLESSED!

YOU ARE A MIRACLE

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DECEMBER 4, 2022

During this Christmas season, it is easy to allow hustle and bustle of this time of year to cause us to forget what it is all about.  This is the time of year we take to celebrate the birth of our Lord And Savior Jesus Christ.  Lest we forget, his birth was a miracle, and He was the bringer of miracles.

If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you have a miracle living on the inside of you in the form of the Holy Spirit.  Keep in mind that in the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit had been promised, but had not yet been given.  The prophets of old spoke about the Holy Spirit and how he would come and dwell in His people. They looked forward to this time, but never saw it come to pass.

Now, because the Holy Spirit now lives in us,  we have a miracle on the inside of us.  A miracle that produces miracles, just like an apple seed does not merely produce an apple, but multitudes of apples. 

How does this miracle of the Holy Spirit dwelling within you produce miracles in you?  Let me give you three to begin with.

1.  There is a miracle in your mouth.  

Did you realize you have God’s creative ability in your mouth?  Let look at the importance of the words we speak.  Romans 10:8 says, “But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;

It also says in Proverbs 18:21, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”

Did you know our earth, the sun and stars, the entire universe was created by God’s words.

Hebrews 11:3 says, “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.”

Jesus said in Mark 11:22,23  “And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.

23 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.”

Jesus explained this principle on multiple occasions.  There is a miracle in your mouth, if you will learn to use it properly.  Our tongues are one of the most powerful members of our entire bodies.  Take the time and read James, chapter 3 and you will see what I mean.  You never know how the words you speak to someone else can be just the miracle that person needs at that time and place.  Stop cursing yourself by the words you speak out of you mouth.  Get in agreement with God’s Word and speak miracle working words.

2.  There is a miracle in your heart.

God lives in you!  Take a look at the following passages.

Colossians 1:27  “ To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:”

John 14:23 “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.”

Galations 2:20 “ I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

The miracle of God living in us is the Hope of Glory,  Recognized It, Love It and Live It!

3.  There is a miracle in what you do.

John 14:12 says, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.”

The salvation we receive once we accept Christs is not to merely save us from a literal and burning hell, but for us to do good works and make disciples.  (Matt. 28:18-22, Eph. 2:10)  We are to be a miracle for others.  

Take this holiday season receive the miracle that is in you and be the miracle that someone needs!

DISCOVERING YOU TRUE IDENTITY

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As a business leader or someone who leads an organization, do you walk in your true identity?  It is difficult to lead others if you do not know who you truly are.  Many people live their entire life and never know their true identity.  Your identity is who you think you are, how you value yourself and how you perceive yourself.  

As a young kid I was extremely fascinated by dominos.  Not dominos the game, but actually setting up dominos on their ends and finding creative ways to knock that first one down, which then creates a chain reaction that begins to knock all of the subsequent ones down.  As I got older, I tried to lay the dominos out in interesting designs.  It was always amazing how fast the dominos would fall and how each one was dependent on the continuum of energy of the one before it to bring it down.  The very energy from the first domino impacted the last domino that fell. 

Your identity is like that first domino.  It is connected to all the other dominos.  Its energy effects other important parts of your life. Your identity begins a chain reaction that effects all of these areas.  These other areas include your:

  • Confidence
  • Self-esteem
  • Self-worth
  • Growth

These items, and others like it, have an effect on how you view and relate to other people, how you make decisions, how you handle failure and victories, how you handle challenges, and many other things.  

Since all of these things are tied to your identity, it is critical you have a clear understanding of your identity.

As a young pastor, one of my greatest failures was not having a grasp of my true identity.  In the early part of my ministry, my identity was completely tied to my occupation.  I saw myself as Pastor Harold.  That is who I was, in my mind.  This had a negative effect on myself, my wife and even my children.  

You true identity and how you see yourself should include:

  • Your core values
  • Your belief system
  • Your personality traits
  • Your qualities
  • Your faith

In most cases, falsifying legal documents is a criminal act, punishable by expensive fines and/or jail time.  Having a “falsified” identity should also be a criminal offense.

3 areas that help create a false or falsified identity are:

  1. Comparing
  2. Competing
  3. Compiling

COMPARING

Comparing yourself to others for your identity, in most cases, is like a dog chasing its own tail.  We compare ourselves to other people, in the same career, the same age, the same family, etc.  We also compare ourself to other people’s accomplishments, looks, and even how other people dress.  Your value becomes based upon how you see yourself in comparison to others.  A person begins to act, dress, look and be like the people they are comparing themselves to, so they never really get to be themselves.  

Overcoming The Temptation To Compare Yourself

First, recognize God created you and your are unique and one of a kind.  God did not make another person on this planet like you.    

Psalms 139:14 says, “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…”  The wonderfully made is one word in Hebrew and it means, to be distinct, separated, to be set apart.

There is no reason to compare your self to others.  The events, family, experience that is a part of you are and can never be repeated in another person’s life.  You are unique, so be that person God made YOU to be.

COMPETING

Some people spend their entire lives competing with others and themselves.  The outcomes of these competitions is where they get their identities.  This leads to what is called performance identity.  They get their value from the outcome of their performance.  It also creates, what I call, Destination Disease.  People will say, “if I can just get this position, or this house, or this car, then, I will be successful.  The problem is that once they arrive at this destination, they find there is yet another place they need to get to in order to be successful.  

Overcoming The Temptation To Compete

Realize everyone looses at time.  They don’t get the promotion or they don’t get that job, or get into that prestigious university.  You do not have to always win to be a winner.

Proverbs 24:16 says, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again;”

It does not matter how many times you fail or fall, it matters how many times you get back up.  Competition can be healthy in certain scenarios, but it should never be where you get your identity.  


Galations 5:26 says, “Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.”  The word Provoking is the Greek word prokaleomai and means challenge to combat or contest.  This scripture is talking about competing with someone.  The word Envying is a greek word that means to be jealous of.  Paul is clearly speaking of not spending our time competing or be jealous of others.  Paul downplays his education and position of prominence in several passages.  If you read other passages that Paul wrote, you can see that he did not want others jealous or feel they would need to compete with who he was.  

Compiling

Lastly, another thing that can cause a person to have a “falsified” identity is the compiling or the collecting of things.  The United States, especially, is a society that puts a lot of importance on having your identity tied to what you own or what you have. 

You have only to look at television commercials to recognize the emphasis on compiling possessions.  Having the best car, the best home, etc. creates a specific identity that is tied to those possessions.  I have seen people be house poor or car poor because their identity is propped up by these possessions. 

Overcoming The Temptation To Compete

I can only share with you what Jesus said in Luke 12:15.  “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”  You should resist the temptation of getting your value and your identity from the things you possess.

Let me encourage you to take some time and find out from God’s Word, who God says you are.  Begin to get your identity and your value from what God says about you and from who God says you are.

It is my prayer and my desire for you live in your true Godly identity.  When you do, you will discover a more meaningful life and career.