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What's In A Word?

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:30:03 GMT

The Power of Good Communication: Making Truth Memorable and Meaningful

In every sphere of influence... business, ministry, leadership, or relationships... the ability to communicate well determines whether a message is merely heard or truly understood. Good communication is not just about clarity; it is about connection. It bridges the gap between knowledge and transformation. Few figures demonstrate this more effectively than C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Jesus Christ. Each used communication not only to convey truth but to make it resonate deeply with their audience.

1. Clarity Creates Understanding

At its core, good communication must be clear. C.S. Lewis mastered this by translating complex theological ideas into language that everyday people could grasp. In works like Mere Christianity, he avoided academic jargon and instead used relatable analogies, comparing morality to a universal law like gravity, for example. His goal was not to impress but to illuminate.

Clarity requires discipline. It demands that the communicator fully understands the subject before attempting to explain it. Lewis once suggested that if you cannot explain something simply, you likely do not understand it well enough. This principle applies directly in business and leadership contexts: a clear message reduces confusion, aligns teams, and accelerates execution.

In practice, clarity means choosing words carefully, structuring ideas logically, and eliminating unnecessary complexity. When people understand what you are saying, they are far more likely to act on it.

2. Story Engages the Heart

While clarity informs the mind, story captures the heart. J.R.R. Tolkien demonstrated this through The Lord of the Rings, where profound themes of sacrifice, courage, and hope are woven into narrative rather than presented as abstract ideas. Tolkien didn’t lecture his readers about virtue—he showed it through characters like Frodo and Aragorn.

Stories create emotional engagement, which significantly increases retention and impact. People may forget data points, but they remember narratives. In a business or leadership setting, storytelling can transform dry information into compelling vision. Instead of simply stating goals, effective communicators paint a picture of what success looks like and why it matters.

Tolkien’s approach reminds us that communication is not only about transferring information but also about inspiring belief. When people feel the message, they are more likely to embrace it.

3. Simplicity Drives Transformation

No one exemplified the power of simple, transformative communication more than Jesus Christ. Through parables—short, vivid stories drawn from everyday life—

He communicated profound spiritual truths in ways that were accessible to all. Whether speaking about seeds, shepherds, or lost coins, Jesus used familiar imagery to reveal deeper meaning.

His communication was both simple and layered. A child could understand the surface message, while a thoughtful listener could uncover deeper insights over time. This is the hallmark of effective communication: it meets people where they are while inviting them to grow.

Jesus also demonstrated the importance of audience awareness. He adjusted His communication depending on whether He was speaking to crowds, disciples, or religious leaders. This adaptability ensured that His message remained relevant and impactful.

Bringing It Together

The examples of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Jesus Christ reveal a consistent pattern: effective communication is clear, engaging, and simple. It respects the audience, connects emotionally, and delivers truth in a way that can be understood and remembered.

In practical terms, improving communication means:

Striving for clarity over complexity
Using stories to illustrate key points
Keeping messages simple yet meaningful
Adapting to the audience you are addressing

Whether you are leading a team, building a business, or sharing your faith, your ability to communicate well will determine your level of influence. Ideas alone are not enough, how you present them is what gives them power.

Good communication does more than make a point; it makes a difference.

Strategies For Effective Communication

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:30:03 GMT

Strategies for Effective Communication

An interview with Peter Hall

CEO, Econosphere Inc, Cambridge Ontario

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place,” says playwright George Bernard Shaw. Sometimes communicators fail miserably. In fact, fear of public speaking is ranked higher than even the fear of death, in opinion polls.

Yet it can be learned, and MUST be learned, the higher up a business leader climbs on the influence ladder.

“Effective communication,” says Peter Hall, “boils down complex issues into one to three easily digestible points that lead to an action benefiting the listener. Making complex issues understandable and memorable for the audience is the speaker’s primary responsibility.”

Peter Hall’s Story

At age seventeen, Peter was saved. He talks about how shy, introverted and lacking in confidence he was as a teenager. Yet he developed a fascination with critiquing public speakers. After listening to some lacklustre speakers, he thought he could do better! He mentally noted ways to improve the presentation. That habit eventually led to him overcoming shyness and voluntarily taking on teaching assignments at his church, and at school.

In his first job, as an economist, he continued this practice. After amazing a senior executive audience with an engaging speech they expected to be boring, he was invited to join a speakers’ roster. Eventually this grew into 80 to 100 presentations a year.

Later, a financial institution hired him to increase their visibility, which eventually led to Peter launching his own business, Econosphere Inc.

Peter’s Public Speaking Tips

Don’t show your work. What does this mean? It’s a common mistake for speakers to share a plethora of details that justify their conclusion. But resist this temptation! Instead, be succinct, offering about three key points, that lead to a memorable conclusion. Listeners do not want to hear WHY you have reached your conclusion. That’s exhausting. They want to simply trust you to tell them what you have learned.

You’re the expert, so be confident! Audiences want you to own the podium. You’re the expert. Come prepared with substance and insights. Then present your arguments with the confidence the audience is expecting.

Storytelling, especially parables, matter. Complex ideas can often be better understood when just the right story or parable is used as an illustration. At times, this brings a touch of brilliance to a speech, so take advantage of its amazing power. Captivating the imagination of your audience touches hearts!

Expect the unexpected. Be prepared for anything, such as power outages or emergencies. One day Peter’s presentation to a room of senior executives went up in smoke---literally. His notes rested on a hot lightbulb and ignited! Adding quips such as “our next burning issue” and “this hot topic” saved the day, bringing laughter, and compliments instead of panic-filled responses. Peter even polished Winston Churchill’s quote: “What you should have done is put the speech into the fire!” to better suit his circumstances.

Know your audience. If you have a degree in nuclear physics and your audience is high school students, you will need to explain things using far less technical language. How you speak, and your choice of words must change with each audience.

Progressively reach a conclusion. Build your argument succinctly, step by step, to a destination that listeners can grasp, and later share with someone at home. Preachers are well-skilled at this process.

A favourite book of Peter’s is by D. (David) Martyn Lloyd-Jones entitled: Preaching and Preachers. It is full of great advice, and teaches communicators to always leave room for the Holy Spirit. In other words, sometimes God wants to use you, as the speaker, to address a unique need in the audience.

Biblical Principles

Gracious Words Can Heal:

Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Proverbs 16: 24 NIV

Only God Tames the Tongue:

The tongue also is a fire…But no human being can tame the tongue.

James 3:6a,8a NIV

Encourage One Another:

Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up.

1 Thessalonians 5:11a NIV

Jesus Models Excellence

In conclusion, Jesus models effective communication when He uses parables as a teaching tool, vividly capturing the imagination of his audiences, and adeptly illustrating powerful truths that compel a heart response.

For example, in Mathew 20:33-46, sharing The Parable of the Vineyard, Jesus brilliantly confronts the Pharisees with God’s just response, even when it points to them as leaders.

Why does effective communication matter so much? Building one another up, through our encouragement of those around us is needed more today, in this world, than ever before. Every leader has a responsibility to be as effective a communicator as possible, as we learn to ask God to tame our tongues and help us build wholesome and trustworthy relationships, according to His purposes.

Servant Leaders Build Big People, Not Big Projects!

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:47:09 GMT

An interview with Adam Shepski
Executive Director, Disciple a City

"You teach what you know, but you reproduce who you are," is a widely cited principle in servant leadership and discipleship that emphasizes modeling over mere instruction. In other words, relationship building matters more than business project goals or programs.

As Executive Director of Disciple a City, Adam Shepski and his team are currently engaged in training about 10,000 believers across Canada to become disciples, using tracks for individuals, local churches and event leaders.
Adam’s dreams are gigantic! Imagine if every ordinary believer in Canada was able to share the extraordinary good news of the gospel, with the goal of making Canada the most evangelized nation in the world!

Adam Shepski’s Story

Growing up in a rural community of Listowel, Ontario, Adam enjoyed the privileges of a middle class family. However, boredom and limited social events caused sixteen-year-old Adam to get into trouble. He began to drink and use drugs. By age nineteen he was an addict, taking drugs daily, and battling depression and suicidal thoughts. Life, for him, had no purpose.

One day a friend invited him for coffee, and shared the gospel message; he told him that God has a purpose for his life! That deeply touched Adam’s soul. But he was not ready to change.

One week later with enough pills to end his life in one hand, and a bible in the other hand, Adam faced the most important decision of his life: suicide or Jesus? If Jesus was real, He could help him. If not real, Adam knew he’d be dead within the month.

So he cried out to Jesus, and in desperation asked for help. That was his turning point. Soon after his friend took him to church, and a Youth for Christ group of young people there began to fervently pray for him, even keeping a prayer journal of answered prayers. Before long he had new friends, a purposeful life and then he met his future wife, Melissa.

Once married, Melissa and Adam served in local and global Youth for Christ ministries, expanding their leadership roles as they moved from Listowel to Wingham, and then to Bobcaygeon, Ontario.

In 2016 Adam led an international prayer ministry at Youth for Christ, working with hundreds of leaders in Africa and providing support for international missionaries.

In 2019 Adam launched Disciple a City Ministries, which teaches “good shepherd leadership training”. Leaders who build big people, not big projects commit to three things: providing, protecting and presence. With caring as their heart motive, these leaders seek to model good shepherd leadership support, watching over their flock.

As servant leaders we ought not judge ourselves by our motives and others by their actions. Instead, when someone makes a mistake, look first at the intentions of someone’s heart. This builds an environment of trust, where people are allowed to learn from their mistakes.

Prioritizing presence, or being present as a leader, means giving sufficient time to those needing something whether it’s training, equipping, encouragement or problem solving.

Biblical Principles
Be Willing Shepherds of God’s Flock:

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them ---not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve, not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 1 Peter 5: 2-3 NIV

Model the Fruit of the Spirit:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

Jesus’ Disciples Must Serve Others:

Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant…just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20: 26, 28 NIV

Looking Forward…

Adam continues to advance his vision to equip ordinary believers to share the gospel’s extraordinary good news with the goal of making Canada the most evangelized nation in the world.

But as magnificent a vision as this is, Adam warns that administrative leadership gifts are also crucial, including creating the right job descriptions and applying project management skills. Like engines without fuel, visions can stall then die without administrative support.

Adam recommends a book by Patrick Lencioni, entitled The Six Types of Working Genius: A Better Way to Understand Your Gifts, Your Frustrations, and Your Team. Here, Lencioni identifies six “work processes” that motivate different individuals: wonder, invention, discernment, galvanizing, enablement and tenacity. Adam practices this by identifying team members’ unique strengths and placing them in the right roles, similar to “the right seat on the bus” analogy.

Biblical Servant Leadership in Business

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:24:18 GMT

Leading with Authority, Humility, and Purpose

In today’s business culture, leadership is often measured by title, power, and results. Scripture, however, presents a radically different model, servant leadership . Biblical servant leadership does not diminish authority or ambition; rather, it redefines them. It calls leaders to steward influence for the good of others while remaining accountable to God. For Christian business leaders, servant leadership is not optional, it is foundationa l.

1. Leadership Begins with Serving, Not Position

Jesus fundamentally re-oriented leadership when He taught, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43, NIV). In biblical terms, leadership is not something claimed; it is something entrusted. Authority is given for the benefit of those being led, not for personal elevation.

In business, this means leaders view their role as one of responsibility rather than entitlement. Servant leaders ask different questions: How can I help my team succeed? What obstacles can I remove? How can I develop people, not just extract performance from them? This posture builds trust, engagement, and long-term organizational health.

Serving does not imply weakness. On the contrary, it requires strength, discipline to put ego aside, courage to make difficult decisions, and humility to listen. A servant leader still sets direction, enforces standards, and pursues excellence, but does so with the well-being of people in mind.

2. Servant Leadership Is Rooted in Humility and Stewardship

Philippians 2:3-4 instructs believers to value others above themselves and to look not only to their own interests, but also to the interests of others. This principle directly applies to business leadership. Biblical servant leaders understand they are stewards , not owners, of people, resources, opportunities, and influence.

Humility allows leaders to acknowledge limitations, invite feedback, and admit mistakes. In practical business terms, this creates cultures of learning rather than fear. Teams led by humble leaders are more innovative, more loyal, and more resilient because they know their contributions matter.

Stewardship also re-frames success. Profit, growth, and market impact are important, but they are not ultimate. The servant leader measures success by faithfulness: Was I just? Did I treat people with dignity? Did I use my authority in ways that honoured God and served others?

3. Servant Leadership Aligns Power with Love and Accountability

Jesus demonstrated servant leadership most clearly by combining authority with sacrifice. He led decisively, spoke truth boldly, and held people accountable—yet always through love. Biblical servant leadership in business follows the same pattern.

This means leaders do not avoid hard conversations or difficult decisions. Letting underperformance continue unchecked, tolerating unethical behaviour, or refusing to confront dysfunction is not servant leadership, it is neglect. Serving others sometimes requires correction, discipline, or change for the sake of the organization and the individuals within it.

At the same time, accountability is exercised with grace. Decisions are transparent. Communication is respectful. People are treated as image-bearers of God, not merely as human capital.

Conclusion

Biblical servant leadership challenges prevailing business norms by redefining greatness. It calls leaders to use power to lift others, to see leadership as stewardship, and to pursue results without sacrificing character. In a world hungry for trustworthy leadership, servant leaders stand out—not because they demand attention, but because they consistently place people, purpose, and obedience to God at the center of their work.

For Christian business leaders, servant leadership is more than a strategy. It is an act of worship lived out daily in boardrooms, offices, factories, and marketplaces.

Navigating Change as God's New Creation

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 20:08:39 GMT

An interview with Thanh Campbell,
Executive Director, Canadian Christian Business Federation

‘Insanity’ is sometimes defined as ‘doing the same things over and over while expecting different results’. That’s not how true change works. Habits must be broken, new behaviours embraced, along with attitudes adjusted to better reflect the heart of God.

Dying to self is one of our biggest fears. Why? Ambiguity frightens us. It’s the unknown and seems like a mystery. Stepping off the edge of ‘self’ takes courage and a deep trust in the God of the Bible. Becoming God’s ‘new creation’ means God is in control, not us.

Living for God is challenging, yet it also brings with it unspeakable joy. It means we join the Creator of Heaven and Earth in His plans to save the lost, expand His kingdom and make the world a better place.

God is always good, always loving, and always gives what is right for us and those around us. That’s why, to live life to the fullest, we must step out of His way and relinquish selfishness and stubbornness.

Navigating change requires a roadmap. But, thankfully, we have been given one; it’s called ‘The Bible’.

Thanh’s Story

Born in 1973 in Vietnam, Thanh was placed in an orphanage with his brothers. After being separated from his brothers he was mistakenly added to the ‘Operation Babylift’ group of babies headed for Canada to be adopted. That’s how he gained five siblings and became the son of a Pastor and his wife in Cambridge, Ontario.

Thanh spent five years at Redeemer College, earning two degrees, one in Education and the other a Bachelor of Arts with a joint major in Theatre and French. After graduation he was recruited by Redeemer, as their Admissions Counsellor. Soon, through the mentorship of Greg Hatton, he joined the fundraising team, gaining expertise in stewardship counselling and ministry fundraising.

This training provided amazing opportunity for Thanh to serve, assisting with fundraising needs in Hamilton Missions services, Kids Alive International, World Vision, Christian Reformed Church initiatives, Trinity Western University and others.

During this time Thanh also wrote and published his memoir entitled Orphan 32, and during book tour events he shared his passion for kingdom building and eradicating global poverty.

About this time COVID happened. His life nose-dived. A family and work crisis left him homeless. Thanh cried out to God and prayed with desperation. A friend gave him shelter, but he had no money and felt helpless and alone. Depending on God, at a whole different level of need, opened Thanh’s heart to what it means to truly depend on God, trusting Him for everything.

Through this trial Thanh learned some lessons. First, God is enough. In fact, God is ALL that he needs! He is EVERYTHING that truly matters in life.

Secondly, because he is God’s son, beloved by God, all that Thanh has, and will have, belongs to God.

Thirdly, no matter how needy Thanh felt, there is always someone else nearby with a greater need.

Thanh tells the story of meeting a hungry homeless young lady of about twenty. When Thanh offered food, she surprised him twice. First, she ordered kraft dinner at a pizza place; then, she preferred to return to her tiny stairwell sleeping spot, instead of eating in the restaurant. She wanted to spend time alone in prayer and thanking God for this food. Thanh felt humbled by her gratitude and desire to acknowledge God.

Biblical Principles

Mind Renewal Transforms: Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV See also Romans 8:6

Reconciliation In Christ Jesus: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5: 17 NIV

Power from the Holy Spirit: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8 NIV

Conclusion

Thanh has many reasons to celebrate God’s goodness. In early 2021 Thanh met a woman named Teresa. Engaged in May, they were married in October 2021.

After a season as Director for Partners Worldwide, Thanh became Executive Director of Global Development Partners in May 2025 and Executive Director of CCBF, in December 2025. Thanh is looking forward to exciting changes ahead, and wants to nurture leaders to become innovative change makers and kingdom builders.

Thanh’s desire is that each one of us commit to mentoring others in areas God has corrected or directed us, and in so doing, radiate God’s light and perfume the world with Christ’s aroma of mercy, grace, and loving kindness.

Resistor, Adopter, or Change-Maker - Which Are You?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:28:34 GMT

A Biblical Perspective on Change and Innovation

Change is unavoidable. Markets evolve, cultures shift, technologies advance, and leadership demands adaptability. Yet when change arrives, people tend to respond in predictable ways. Broadly speaking, most individuals fall into one of three categories: the Resistor , the Majority Adopter, or the Change-Maker . Scripture offers a clear framework for understanding these responses and calls believers to a posture that honors God while engaging innovation with wisdom and purpose.

The Resistor: Clinging to the Familiar

Resistors are not necessarily rebellious or malicious. Often, they are motivated by fear, comfort, or a sincere desire to protect what has worked in the past. In the Bible, the Israelites in the wilderness exemplify this mindset. Despite God’s miraculous deliverance from Egypt, they repeatedly longed to return to slavery because it felt familiar and predictable (Exodus 16:2–3).

Resistance to change frequently reveals a misplaced trust in methods rather than in God Himself. When tradition becomes immovable, it can harden into disobedience. Jesus confronted this posture in the religious leaders of His day, who resisted the work of God because it disrupted their systems and authority (Mark 7:8). Their commitment to the “traditions of men” prevented them from recognizing the Messiah standing before them.

For believers today, resistance can appear in business, ministry, or leadership when innovation is dismissed simply because it is uncomfortable or unfamiliar. While discernment is essential, outright resistance often signals fear rather than faith. Scripture consistently reminds us that God is not static. “See, I am doing a new thing!” declares the Lord (Isaiah 43:19). The question is whether we are attentive enough to perceive it.

The Majority Adopter: Following the Crowd

The majority adopter represents the largest group. These individuals are not opposed to change, but they rarely initiate it. Instead, they wait until change is proven safe, socially acceptable, or financially viable before participating. This approach minimizes risk but also limits influence.

Biblically, this posture is reflected in the crowd dynamics often seen in the Gospels. Large groups followed Jesus when miracles were abundant and teachings were popular, but many fell away when His words became challenging (John 6:66). The majority moved with momentum, not conviction.

In leadership and innovation, majority adopters are responsive rather than visionary. They benefit from change but seldom shape it. Proverbs 29:18 warns, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” While following can be appropriate at times, Scripture consistently elevates those who lead with godly vision rather than those who merely conform.

The danger for believers is complacency—confusing prudence with passivity. Waiting for consensus may feel wise, but it can result in missed opportunities to steward influence for God’s purposes.

The Change-Maker: Faith-Driven Innovators

Change-makers are those who discern what God is doing and courageously participate in it. They are not reckless innovators, but faithful stewards who align creativity with obedience. Throughout Scripture, God works through individuals willing to step into uncertainty with trust.

Abraham left his homeland without knowing his destination (Genesis 12:1–4). Nehemiah envisioned a restored Jerusalem and mobilized resources, people, and strategy to rebuild its walls (Nehemiah 2). The early church embraced radical change as the Gospel moved beyond Jewish communities into the Gentile world (Acts 10).

Change-makers combine spiritual discernment with practical action. They understand that innovation is not an end in itself, but a means to fulfill God’s redemptive purposes. Jesus Himself modelled this posture; introducing the Kingdom of God in ways that challenged social norms, religious structures, and leadership paradigms, while remaining fully obedient to the Father.

For believers in business, ministry, and leadership today, being a change-maker means asking better questions: How can this innovation serve people? How does this change reflect God’s character? How can progress advance justice, stewardship, and discipleship?

Choosing Your Posture Toward Change

The Bible does not glorify resistance, nor does it commend passive conformity. Instead, it consistently highlights faithful obedience expressed through courageous action. Romans 12:2 calls believers to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind,” not shaped by fear or majority opinion.

Change-makers are not driven by novelty; they are driven by mission. They evaluate innovation through a biblical lens, embrace change with humility, and lead with conviction rooted in faith. In a rapidly changing world, God continues to seek men and women willing to move forward with Him.

So, when change comes, as it inevitably will, the real question is not whether you will be affected, but how you will respond. Will you resist and retreat, adopt and follow, or step forward as a faithful change-maker? Scripture makes clear that those who trust God enough to lead into the unknown often become the very instruments through which He brings renewal.

Walking In God's Vision

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 19:55:44 GMT

Trusting His Direction

In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:6 KJV

Every meaningful pursuit in life begins with vision. But for the Christian, vision is not simply a dream board of personal aspirations or a list of ambitious goals. True vision flows from alignment with God; His wisdom, His timing, and His direction. Proverbs 3:6 offers a simple but profound roadmap: acknowledge God, walk with Him daily, and allow His guidance to shape the path ahead. From this verse emerge three essential elements of Christ-centered vision.

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 13:30:02 GMT

An interview with Philip Yan
Director, Centre for Redemptive Entrepreneurship, Tyndale University

“What is good for the world, according to its Creator?” Answering this question could transform your business!

Philip Yan defines “Redemptive Entrepreneurship” as: “Building profitable businesses that serve the community, renew culture, and bless people; restoring society to its intended state.”

Yet, it’s not only business leaders that are impacted. Individuals, too, can feel a strong lament that draws them closer to the heart of God, and requires a response, or an action step, to make life better for someone in need.

Philip‘s Story

Philip and his wife, Amy, are both passionate about serving God by reaching the next generation.

A homeless man in his twenties once opened Philip’s eyes to see just how difficult job seeking is for individuals battling mental illness and past drug addictions, while having limited life skills. Trained as a designer, Philip launched two redemptive businesses in response to the many individuals facing similar barriers.

The first launch was an online coffee business. The profits from the business were used to fund new programs that expanded job opportunities for the disadvantaged and the homeless.

He later launched a VHS tape recycling business to employ people with barriers to employment. This business addressed a silent but significant environmental issue while offering dignified work. It did not primarily scale jobs, but rather served as a transformative portal---restoring dignity, confidence, and vocational imagination. In fact, measurable improvements in employment and lifestyle stability were realized within the community connected to this initiative.

Over time, Philip became aware of a growing tension many church leaders face. While deeply committed to caring for their congregations and communities, many have not yet been equipped with the language, tools, or imagination to support holistic mission through innovation and marketplace engagement beyond the church walls.

This realization led Philip to embrace a renewed vision of God’s holistic mission at work in the world---one that seeks the redemption of people, the marketplace, and communities. Jesus models this mission by meeting people in their places of deepest need and restoring them with dignity and purpose.

Out of this vision, the Centre for Redemptive Entrepreneurship was birthed and founded in 2021.

Philip highly recommends Jon Tyson and Heather Grizzle’s book A Creative Minority: Influencing Culture Through Redemptive Participation . Philip loves its holistic narrative and its scriptural focus on hope.

An Illustration

Redemptive Entrepreneurship is not about the form of business, but rather the personal journey of leadership. It’s a heart issue!

Philip shares a brief story about an engineer he knows who fell on hard times in 2016 but dared to address the core issue of his life.

As he battled the death of one daughter, a business lawsuit, a divorce and another daughter’s painful drug addiction issue, he chose to surrender control of his life to God and entered a new chapter shaped by prayer, humility, and dependence on Him.

Over time, this posture led to healthier leadership, a strengthened business, flourishing staff relationships, strong customer service, and new opportunities for missional leadership.

This story illustrates that redemptive transformation flows not from formulas, but from surrender, faithfulness, and obedience to God.

Biblical Principles

Jesus Redeems Us: In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.

Ephesians 1:7 NIV

God’s Plan is to Save Believers and Save the World. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

John 3:16-17 NIV

Jesus is Anointed and Sent to Redeem: The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.

Luke 4:18-19 NIV; See also Isaiah 61:1-2a NIV

In conclusion, here are two questions: First, why am I created? The answer is to be formed into the likeness of Christ!

Secondly, how am I responding to Jesus’ gift of restoration? Jesus invites us to do in His strength what He does, which is to intentionally obey God’s Word and serve the needs of others.

In other words, our faith journey is rooted in our relationship with Jesus, which means drawing closer to the One who loves us so much that He died to redeem us.

God’s plan is to restore not only us, as His beloved children, but the world in which we live. Furthermore, each one of us, as a believer, is an integral part of that divine redemption plan!

Stewardship Begins With Trust

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:43:21 GMT

Christian Stewardship in Business: Managing with Purpose, People, and Principles

As I have been traveling and meeting Christian business people from around the world, one word keeps surfacing in nearly every conversation: stewardship . It appears in discussions about environmental responsibility, resource management, and personal ownership. Yet, it is far more than a buzzword—it’s a way of life, though practiced differently by everyone.

For some, stewardship means care-taking —ensuring that what they have been entrusted with is properly maintained. They see stewardship as protecting what God has given: keeping their environment clean, their businesses organized, and their possessions in good working order.

Others view stewardship as a guiding principle , shaping how they live, what they own, and how they make decisions. It aligns with the economic idea of managing scarce resources—something I’ve observed through my daughter’s first-year business studies. This mindset emphasizes prudence and responsibility, but when taken too far, it can lead to legalism, where faith becomes more about control than trust.

So how do we, as Christian business leaders, practice stewardship in a world driven by profit and competition? Scripture reminds us that work is not just a career—it’s a calling. Our businesses are not simply tools for success but platforms for ministry.

Psalm 24:1 declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” That truth redefines ownership. Nothing truly belongs to us—not our wealth, time, or talents. We are stewards, entrusted by God to manage His resources wisely and faithfully.

To live this out in business, we can think of stewardship through three dimensions: Purpose, People, and Principles.

1. Stewardship of Purpose – Clarify Why You Work

Every Christian entrepreneur must begin with why. Business is not separate from faith—it’s an expression of it. God gives each of us unique skills and visions to participate in His creative and redemptive work.

Stewarding purpose means asking: “Does my business reflect God’s mission or just my ambition?” When our goals align with His glory, work becomes worship.

Colossians 3:23 reminds us: “ Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters .” Profit and growth are important, but true success is measured in faithfulness and impact.

Reflection:

Is my business built around God’s purpose, or have I allowed profit to replace calling?

2. Stewardship of People – Lead with Compassion

Every leader manages more than systems and numbers—we manage souls. Employees, clients, and partners are people created in the image of God. Stewarding people means leading with humility, empathy, and fairness.

Jesus modelled servant leadership, saying in Mark 10:45: “ For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve .” When we lead like Christ, we create workplaces where dignity is protected and encouragement is common. A culture of compassion not only honours God—it strengthens the business.

Reflection:

Do I treat my employees and clients as image-bearers of God—or as instruments for my goals?

3. Stewardship of Principles – Conduct Business with Integrity

A steward’s reputation is built on trust. In business, that means living out biblical values in every decision, even when it’s costly. Integrity is about consistency—doing what’s right whether or not anyone is watching.

Proverbs 11:3 says: “ The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity .”

For Christians, integrity is not optional—it’s foundational. Ethical practices, honesty in relationships, and transparency in finances all demonstrate who truly governs our business: God or ourselves.

Reflection:

Are my business decisions guided by convenience—or by conviction?

Conclusion: Stewardship That Reflects the Saviour

Christian stewardship in business is not about adding faith to your work—it’s about anchoring your work in faith . When we steward our Purpose, People, and Principles well, we don’t just run successful companies—we reflect Christ in the marketplace.

Every company, every contract, and every career becomes an opportunity to declare: “It all belongs to God.”

Stewardship’s Blessings

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:15:42 GMT

An interview with Maynard Wiersma
Executive Director, Christian Stewardship Service, Cambridge Ontario

You can’t outgive God! Catching hold of this truth helps believers to recognize that a heart of generosity leads to tangible joy and immeasurable spiritual blessings.

What is stewardship? Maynard’s definition is not limited to tithing and financial giving alone. He includes use of time, hospitality, talents plus how we live our lives. We must wholeheartedly give back to God, always seeking God’s plan for our lives.

There are four ways we can do this, says Maynard: time, treasure, trees and talent. Time, treasure and talent most people grasp. But ‘trees’ stewardship means not only taking care of our environment, but also hospitality and how generously we share our property, home, and vehicles.

In other words, everything we do after we say ‘yes’ to Jesus is stewardship.

Maynard ‘s Story

In 1991 Maynard became a financial advisor then moved to a Mutual Fund Company. He heard that tax guru Tim Cestnick, also a Christian, was coming soon to this company to start up a Tax and Estate Planning department. Begging to join his team, Maynard got his wish, which opened fantastic opportunities.

But how did he transition to join Christian Stewardship Service (CSS)? It was a Friday lunch and fellowship group colleague of his who was celebrating receiving a new job offer, that first told him about CSS. When the vision and goals of CSS intrigued and excited Maynard, this colleague laughed and said he’d let Maynard know, when he is ready to leave his position.

Years later, he did just that. He emailed Maynard out of the blue, telling him he was leaving the job as stewardship consultant at CSS that had so intrigued Maynard years before.

Maynard applied and was hired. That was eighteen years ago and he’s still loving CSS and continues to praise God for preparing and equipping him for each leadership position.

When people say “I don’t have the resources”, Maynard responds “But everyone has the resources!”. He’ll then tell them his definition of stewardship, as all encompassing; it’s not merely treasure chests of money, but includes talents, time and caring for the environment that we can give back to God as our thank offering.

One of his favourite sayings is: “if you’ve decided in your heart to give, we can help.”

A Remarkable Stewardship Story

Arriving early, the coffee was already on as Maynard visited his client. This client had recently received a sizeable bequest from his father, about $200,000. He and his wife spent a week chatting about their priorities and how to spend it, since they had scrimped for decades while raising young children.

But they had a problem. Independent of one another, the husband felt prompted by God to give the whole bequest away, and the wife was struggling with the same issue. Neither wanted to deprive the other of the enjoyment to travel or other long-awaited pleasures, yet they also did not want to disobey God.

Finally, at breakfast the husband had the courage to tell his wife what he felt God was asking of him. Without a word, she got up and went to the bedroom to get her prayer journal. In it he read that she, too, had felt prompted by God to do the same—give away their entire bequest.

The cheque this client was holding out to give to Maynard was for $200,000 plus interest, made out to the charity they had chosen to support.

Maynard still marvels at this example of hearts filled with incredible generosity!

Maynard recommends Henri Nouwen’s book A Spirituality of Fundraising to learn why fundraising is the opposite of begging.

Biblical Principles

Ownership: God owns everything. “The earth is the Lords, and everything in it”.
Psalm 24:1a NIV

Leaders must be faithful managers . Now it is required of those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”
1 Corinthians 4:2 NIV

Good stewards receive blessings . “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.
Malachi 3: 10 NIV

God stretches resources . I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty.
Malachi 3:11 NIV

In conclusion, stewardship choices apply as much to business leaders as to church goers.

Tithing profits, for example, or donating your leadership talents to a non-profit organization as a board member, release the same blessings as we read listed above.

It’s wanting to generously give back to God, with a thankful heart, that most pleases God.

In other words, everything we do after we say ‘yes’ to Jesus is simply stewardship!

Do You Know What Your Values and Priorities Are?

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 14:44:08 GMT

An interview with Daniel Ramlogan, Serial Entrepreneur and Tech Executive

We live in an upside-down world, surrounded by constant noise. Yet in the midst of that noise, having a clear grasp of our values and priorities helps us walk in step with Jesus- not racing ahead of Him, nor falling behind. We must trust His plan for our lives.

The question, “Do you know what your values and priorities are?” is one each of us must face, especially if we want to stand firm in the challenges of today’s world.

We will be tested. And in those tests, only those who can clearly articulate and hold to their values will remain grounded in their faith – doing what is right, especially when it’s not easy. For many business leaders, the pull of urgency is a relentless battle, tempting us to respond to what feels pressing instead of what is most important.

The key to perseverance? Abiding in God daily, intentionally, through prayer and time in His Word.

Daniel’s Story

Raised in an immigrant family from the Caribbean, Dan was taught early to pursue financial success and seize every opportunity whether in education, business, or personal growth. That mindset fueled his entrepreneurial drive. But when he came to know Christ in his early twenties--- around the same time he was starting his career---he began to realize that conversations around mission, vision, and values must be consistent between our work life and faith life.

But the path wasn’t without its pitfalls.

As opportunities multiplied and timelines tightened, Dan found himself facing a recurring struggle: moving too quickly, driven by urgency, without pausing to consult God. The result? Progress, yes---but out of sync with God's timing and priorities. It became clear that without a firm grasp on his spiritual values, he risked letting the pursuit of worldly success overshadow the call to serve.

That realization marked a turning point.

Reading Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From the American Dream by David Platt helped recalibrate Dan’s priorities. Its core question, What is Jesus worth to you? challenged him deeply. Would he be willing to leave behind comfort, financial security, even relational ease, for the sake of the gospel?

The book's message echoed his growing conviction: that living uprightly in an upside-down world means choosing obedience over convenience, and aligning success with surrender. only as you submit to God’s will, laying down your own will, that you will truly succeed in pleasing God’s heart.

An Illustration from Dan

His first business, a web development firm, was situated near an adult learning centre. One of the biggest hurdles many new immigrants faced was a lack of Canadian work experience, especially in tech. Sensing both the need and opportunity, Dan launched an internship program for newcomers with a technology background.

The program required time and effort but the fruit was undeniable. Interns gained valuable experience and sometimes landed jobs within the company. More than just a pipeline for employment, the program became a place where friendships formed and community blossomed. Dan used holidays like Christmas and Easter as an opportunity to share gospel messages in the context of food, fellowship, and genuine care. Some interns responded with open hearts.

Twenty years later, it remains a beautiful reminder that when we live out our values, blessings don’t just flow; they keep flowing.

Biblical Principles

Character over Comfort Micah 6:8 highlights priorities of justice, mercy, and walking humbly with God. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) illustrates valuing compassion over convenience.

People over Possessions Relationships are a high priority in Scripture. Jesus said the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbour as yourself (Matthew 22:39). 1 John 3:17 reminds us that love must be shown in action, not just words.

Purpose over Distraction Biblical priorities keep believers focused on God’s mission: making disciples (Matthew 28:19–20), doing good works (Ephesians 2:10), and glorifying God in all things (1 Corinthians 10:31). Abiding matters. We are taught to abide in Christ the way a branch abides in a vine (John 15:4).

In conclusion, Dan warns that our willingness to boldly shine as a Christian is more of a challenge in today’s world than it was twenty ago in Canada. For example, it was not well received when he was asked to add pronoun labels to his email signature and refused. But he prefers to obey Jesus as his ultimate CEO than try to bend to social and political pressures.

Ultimately, quality of life is all about drawing closer to God’s heart, abiding in His call, obeying biblical principles and maintaining a close fellowship with God.

Jesus is worthy! Choosing to do what’s right in God’s sight in an upside-down world is always worth the price, at any cost to ourselves and our comfort. Jesus’ uprightness confronts and confounds what this world promotes as the best way to live.

What's Really Important Is Showing

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:31:14 GMT

Three Challenges for our Values

Decisions are influenced by many factors that arise in a variety of circumstances. So, it’s not surprising if at times, the question is asked, “Now, why did I decide that way?” How much of that decision was an emotional reaction versus a well thought through response?

At the core of every decision or action is a deeply held set of values that consciously or unconsciously come into play.Values are about what you consider important to the life you want to live and the business you lead.

Those values have been formed and shaped by the influences of upbringing, family & friends, community, business, media, culture and hopefully through faith commitments.

When it comes to values, three challenges are faced:

How to identify one’s values

How to prioritize one’s values

How to evaluate one’s values

God’s Word addresses the matter of values from many perspectives and can certainly help to answer these questions. No matter what our responses are, Paul states our greatest aspiration when he wrote:

… Brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live

in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you

in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.

1 Thessalonians 4:1

1. Values Identified

Values are rooted in our core beliefs about what makes a life well-lived and about the behaviour we want to model for others. So, what do you value in life and business?

So much of life is lived on “auto-pilot” that we seldom reflect on what motivates us and guides our behaviour. However, the reality of what Jeremiah experienced is undoubtedly ours, as well:

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.
Who can understand it?

Jeremiah 17:9

So, it only makes sense to periodically take time to identify and write a list of what you value as important in your life. Then, in quietness, ask God to reveal what’s deep within your heart. This allows Him the opportunity to reveal both the good and the bad.

Our goal is to nurture and grow His values while working to eliminate the displeasing values which can thwart our desire to live a life that David spoke of:

Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain?

The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart.

Psalm 15:1-2

What are the values that are you committed to

both in your personal and business life?

2. Values Prioritized

Values inform our priorities and, when practiced consistently, form the character you want to have. In life and business, all values are important, but some hold precedence over others. So, with your values identified, take the opportunity to prioritize them in order of most important to the least.

A great place to start is with the challenge that Luke provides:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and

with all your strength and with all your mind; and,

Love your neighbor as yourself.

Luke 10:27

This list of value priorities can serve as a value grid through which you make your decisions. Sharing your top 2-3 values with your family and business colleagues will help to build a sense of respect for your leadership.

What is your most important value in life and

how do you demonstrate that to those around you?

3. Values Evaluated

It’s been said, “What’s down in the well comes up in the bucket!” This also holds true when it comes to values. That which we hold as of highest value deep within will be lived out in our words and our behaviour whether we’re aware of it or not. So again, Christ’s words come to mind:

For where your treasure is,

there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:21

Therefore, it’s wise to evaluate how well you are living out those values periodically with your values identified and prioritized. Look for consistency between your words and actions and your values.

For instance, to what degree do follow Micah’s declaration of God’s values?

What does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to

walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

Sometimes, what we’re not aware of, is just as or more important than what we’re aware of. So, it may be helpful to gather feedback from those around you in the workplace or at home. Sharing your values with others and asking for their feedback can be a good means of accountability.

To what degree is what you think and say in alignment

with the values you hold of greatest importance?

Your life is like an open book to your colleagues, family, and friends. How is your book of life being read?

Take time to identify your values. Prioritize your values . Then evaluate your values to ensure that you receive His “well done!” when you stand before Him one day.

I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according

to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.

Jeremiah 17:10

Obedience That Pays Off

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 10:45:00 GMT

Three Lessons on Obedience To God

Caught up in the busyness of life and business, it doesn’t take much for you to get out of alignment with God’s plan for our life. Most often it’s unintentional, but sometimes our own self interests can be the culprit!

That’s clearly what happened with Jonah in the Old Testament. God gave him very clear instructions and he chose to turn and go in the other direction. The price he paid would be almost unbelievable if he hadn’t lived to tell the story.

Woven throughout the Bible are examples of leaders who were faced with choices that were not always easy to make. Some succeeded with obedience and others lost out big time through the painful consequences they experienced. Common in each case were three important lessons about obedience to God.

1. Obedience is about Choice

Obedience to God requires a choice and that choice often requires a significant step of faith! Jonah didn’t like what the could happen if he obeyed God so he simply tried to escape by running. What God was really saying was, “simply trust me!”

Jonah lost his perspective and thought he could ignore God and get away with it. He should have remembered what Jeremiah wrote,

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.

“They are plans for good and not for disaster,

to give you a future and a hope.”

Jeremiah 29:11

Given the plans that God has for your life & business

how is God asking you to just trust Him?

2. Obedience is about Correction

Don’t you wish that every time you’re asked to obey that you always made the right choice? Unfortunately, the reality is that it’s easy to gradually drift from following His plan completely. Often, it takes a course correction to truly be obedient.

Jonah’s course correction came from those mates in the boat with him in the ravaging storm. Rightly so, they challenged Jonah to do the right thing or they’d all perish in the tumultuous sea. Jonah was confronted with what he was doing in running from God and it’s impact on others around him.

It’s important to listen to those closest to you. They may recognize your drift from His plan and help you avoid disastrous results. Remember, that your choices have a significant impact on the lives of those who live and work with you.

To whom do you share your plans by faith

who also can help to keep you on course?

3. Obedience is about Consequences

Every choice has a consequence! Obey and you’ll enjoy the positive outcomes. However, it appears that Jonah forgot that when you choose to disobey, God always makes you give an account for that choice and live with the result.

When Jonah made the wrong choice, he was taught a lesson that he would never forget (nor all of us!). The time of seclusion in the belly of the whale certainly gave Jonah the opportunity for reflection on his choices. Admitting his disobedience, Jonah repented, accepted God’s forgiveness and made a turn for the better.

If consequences are plaguing you, then it might be time for some reflection to see if there are ways in which you’re drifting from obedience to His plans for your life and business.

How often do you set aside time to reflect on the consequences

of your obedience or disobedience to Him?

Living a life of obedience to God is your ultimate goal as business leader. Making the right choices may take some course corrections but be assured the consequences that result will have His figure prints all over them.

I Can Handle Only So Much!

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 01:15:21 GMT

Three Important Responses to Stress

Stress has taken on a whole new meaning over these past few years. Never before have we had to respond to so much stress on so many unpredictable fronts. It never seems to let up for you to “catch your breath” as a leader.

Many leaders in God’s Word experienced unrelenting stress from which we can learn. Recall the extreme stresses that Elijah faced from Queen Jezebel or remember David, who faced daily the threats from King Saul. Lessons are to be learned from each.

Let’s take a few moments to consider the Apostle Paul, who was under constant harassment and powerful opposition, not to mention his countless near-death experiences. Writing from his prison cell, Paul wrote Philippians 4:4-8, in which he shared three essential responses to stress. Let’s take a look at each:

1. Reality Check

When stressed out, it’s easy to find yourself all alone while your myriad of thoughts ricochets off the walls of your mind. It is then when Paul challenges us with a reality check. He says,

“Rejoice in the Lord always . . . let your gentleness be evident to all.” Philippians 4:4-5

How on earth does he expect you to do that when overwhelmed by stress? The key is in the following four words: “the Lord is near.” These words suddenly provide for a seismic shift in your perspective! What a great reality check!

The almighty God of the universe who carefully crafted you cares and is present and available. As Peter stated,

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

What means can you devise to remind yourself to

do a reality check when you feel swamped with stress?

2. Reaction

With that reality check in mind, Paul gives you some efficient instruction reacting to stress. Since you know that God is near then,

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer

and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6

In every stressful situation, your reaction is, in a spirit of thanksgiving, to pray, petition, and present your needs to God. He’s ready to not only listen but as James said,

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously

to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5

Notice that “thanksgiving” nestles in the middle of Paul’s instruction. Thanksgiving demonstrates your faith in His presence and His readiness to answer your prayers even before you express them.

Presenting your needs to God will result in an amazing experience of His peace as He promises,

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

In stress-filled times do you find yourself turning

to Him first for wisdom or as a last resort?

3. Refocused

Paul reminds us that once you’ve committed your needs to God, then leave them with Him and take time to refocus your attention on more important things,

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble,

whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable

—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8

After all, since God is in charge, and you’ve committed matters to Him, then don’t let yourself get distracted with the negativities of stress! Instead, turn your attention to what is excellent and praiseworthy. You’ll gain an entirely new perspective.

What do you use to take your mind off

of the distresses of your day?

When stress overwhelms you like a flood, take a reality check for “The Lord is near.” React with prayer, petitions and needs with a spirit of thanksgiving. Then refocus your attention on experiencing His peace as you think about all the positive things with which He has blessed you.

Making Plans That Work!

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:00:02 GMT

Three Important Requirements for Planning

Occasionally, you’ll meet some business leaders who assume their operations must be spontaneous or Spirit-led. Since so much is unpredictable, take the “curve balls” thrown your way and respond in the moment to the best of your ability.

Planning for an uncertain future is difficult, so why go to all that work when it may not pay off? However, we’ve heard it said, “Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.” There is so much truth in that. After all, “only dead fish go with the flow.” So, it’s essential to take time to plan before you fly into action.

Planning allows us to prepare for the things that we can control. As Christians, we know that, in the end, God is ultimately in control. He has the final say in any situation. So seek His wisdom and direction through prayer. Remember that He expects us to do our best, and He’ll do the rest.

Woven throughout Scripture is wonderful planning principles that remind us that God is Himself a master planner. Here are a few reminders pointing to the three basic requirements needed for planning: Purpose, Priorities and Partners .

1. Planning Requires Purpose

Every business has a purpose for its existence. Planning helps us be specific about how to clarify and accomplish that purpose. Planning allows us to seek God’s direction in prayer as we create those plans.

We must never forget that God has purposes and plans for each of us:

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according
to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity
with the purpose of his will.

Ephesians 1:11

Planning and setting goals help us see the vision and prepare us to fulfill it.

What is your vision and clear statement of purpose
as a company on which you can base your planning?

2. Planning Requires Priorities

The planning process naturally leads to establishing priorities and the order in which they must be done most efficiently and effectively. Often this involves staff with responsibilities that may need to be sequential in getting things done.
Interestingly, God modeled a clear set of priorities when creating our world and humankind.

Paul recognized the importance of priorities and the critical role that each person plays in fulfilling those priorities.

By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder,
and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.
1 Corinthians 3:10

Do you have clearly defined priorities that will
help prepare your company for future growth?

3. Planning Requires Partners

Planning requires partners/people to be involved with you in this future-directed process. The greater the involvement of those with a stake in your company, the greater their sense of ownership in planning for the future.

More than a dozen passages in Proverbs refer to the importance of having advisors, counsellors and hands-on staff engaged in planning.

Plans fail for lack of counsel,
but with many advisers they succeed.
Proverbs 15:22

The way of fools seems right to them,
but the wise listen to advice.
Proverbs 12:15

Do you have capable partners/people readily
available and engaged in your company planning process?

Long-range planning for the future is a stretch since so much is unknown. However, you can define an ideal outcome for the future and plan toward that to the best of your ability. Remember to seek God’s wisdom and direction, which He promised us.

As time passes and immediate realities emerge, your planning process can be revisited and revised to keep you on course toward your desired outcome. Remember to keep your Purpose , Priorities and Partners as your primary planning resources.

Do You Have Fire In Your Belly?

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:03:29 GMT

Three Roles That Passion Plays

The nature of your business makes your purpose evident. However, purpose without passion lacks energy and fire. Passion without purpose lacks focus and direction. Passion is the energy of your soul. So, what is passion? Passion is “Intense emotion compelling action. A strong devotion to some object, activity, or concept.”

Passion plays three important roles in our lives as evidenced by looking at the life and words of the Apostle Paul. Passion has Purpose, Priority and Power!

1. Passion Has Purpose

Passion must have a purpose to give focus and direction to the energy it expends. Moreover, that purpose must represent a commitment to deeply held core beliefs.

God, who loves us passionately, has created and designed each of us for His purpose. Therefore, he is influencing your will and your behaviours so that He can see His purposes fulfilled:

For it is God who works in you to will and to act

in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Philippians 2:13

Being confident of this, that he who began a good work

in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 1:6

Paul wonderfully articulated his sole purpose, which was the driving force and energy behind his life-long passion:

But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward

what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize

for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:13-14

What core beliefs comprise your purpose

to which you give your passion?

2. Passion Has Priority

Passion also determines what is a priority for you. Paul states that God’s priority is for our good and is meant to conform us to the image of His Son.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,

who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew

he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that

he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.

Romans 8:28-29

Paul says that knowing Christ is such a priority to him that it displaces all else. From his perspective, no matter what he has gained (and was well accomplished), he would reduce its value to garbage if it got in the way of him knowing Christ.

But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.

What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth

of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.

I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.

Philippians 3:7-8

How does your passion align

with God’s passion for you?

3. Passion Has Power

Passion has power because of the energy we invest in it. It’s amazing how much power can be exercised when a person is sold-out and passionate about a cause. For example, Paul endured far more than most of us for the gospel because of his passion.

As servants of God we commend ourselves in every way:

in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses;

in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work,

sleepless nights and hunger.

2 Corinthians 6:4-5

Understanding the source of your passion gives fresh power and perspective to handle the trials and difficulties in life. Paul expresses this well when he said to the Corinthians:

Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away,

yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary

troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since

what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:16 -18

Reflect on an incidence in your life when you

could sense power rising up from within you

over a cause for which you were passionat e.

Passion focused and directed on a specific purpose will clarify your priorities and produce a power and energy to accomplish great things for God.

Power to Get The Job Done

Thu, 29 May 2025 09:45:12 GMT

Three Steps to Empowerment

It's fascinating how we all love to be in control and to have the power to do what we think is best. “Just give me the power and let me do it!” is what we say. However, just having the power doesn’t necessarily mean that we’d use the power for healthy and productive purposes.

Christ’s goal while He was on earth was to select, train and equip 12 disciples to carry out His mission on earth long after He was gone. Inevitably, following Jesus and watching His power at work made them anxious to be able to do the same.

However, following Christ’s leadership in the Gospels, we are reminded by His example that there are three important steps to empowering a person(s) to accomplish their responsibilities.

First, it was important for Christ to equip His followers with the appropriate training and resources to do the job. Then, as He witnessed their ability to manage the training and resources properly, he chose the best timing to enable them to practice what they’d learned. Finally, He could fully engage them in taking on their full-scale mission.

Let’s look at examples of how Christ accomplished each step toward empowerment.

1. Empowerment Requires Equipping

After spending a night in prayer, Christ carefully chose his disciples based on two criteria: individuals who could spend extended time with Him and could communicate His message.

He appointed twelve[a] that they might be with him and

that he might send them out to preach

Mark 3:14

Then He gave them a clear picture of the vision and mission He was setting before them, including a challenge.

He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.

Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out

workers into his harvest field.

Luke 10:2

Then Christ began the process of training and equipping His disciples. Witnessing the importance of prayer, the disciples asked to learn more about prayer.

One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished,

one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray,

just as John taught his disciples.”

Luke 11:1

With this began the on-the-job training for months to follow as they lived life and worked together.

Who, in your work, do you need to provide

more formal or informal personal on-the-job training?

2. Empowerment Requires Enablement

As Christ equipped His disciples, He was careful to select the right time for His disciples to be enabled to put their training into action. When He released them to do their work, He provided clear instructions.

“When Jesus had called the 12 together, he gave them power and authority

to drive out all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to

proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.”

—Luke 9:1–2

Once his disciples were released to do the ministry, Christ continued to teach and model for them the way they were to minister. He took time to check and correct their thinking when issues arose. His enablement included accountability.

How do you keep your staff

enabled and accountable?

3. Empowerment Requires Engagement

Christ knew the time would come when His disciples would be fully equipped and ready to be fully engaged in their ministry, which would go far beyond His ministry. Once again, He chose that time carefully. When it arrived, He launched them off on their own with clear commissioning:

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been

given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in

the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching

them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely,

I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matthew 28: 18-20

As a further empowerment, Christ shared with His disciples that they would be given power through the Holy Spirit to further enable their world-wide ministry.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you;

and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea

and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

Acts 1:8

As we know today, the empowerment given to Christ’s disciples literally changed the world through the establishment of churches on every continent.

What resources do your employees need to

be fully empowered to accomplish their goals?

Christ’s disciples were empowered for ministry as Christ chose to equip, enable and engage His followers who were captivated by the mission set before them.

Intentional Team Building

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 15:24:58 GMT

Three Important Factors in Team Building

Don Bennett was the first amputee to climb Mt. Rainier. His testimony is simple – if you try such a feat with only one leg, “you can’t do it alone.” That makes a lot of sense! Therefore, not just anyone qualified for his team; instead, only those who wanted to and could climb a 14,410-foot peak!

Successful businesses require effective teamwork that can only be the result of intentional team building. Teams take a lot of hard work to form, develop, support, and celebrate. Then, they can either “pull together or pull apart!” Together is a delight but apart is devastating.

One of the most important teams ever assembled was formed by Jesus. This was evidenced in His 12 chosen disciples. Let’s take a look at three factors that made Jesus’ team so efficient and effective.

1. Team Selection

Selecting the right team members can be difficult. That’s why Christ’s example is so powerful, as He devoted Himself to prayer before deciding on his team.

One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside

to pray and spent the night praying to God.

When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose

twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.”

Luke 6:12-13

Christ knew the challenges that His team would face so needed His Father’s wisdom in making strategic choices. However, He only needed 12 out a large pool of disciples that were following Him to become part of His inner circle.

His choices were indeed “odd,” for, besides mostly fishermen, he also chose Matthew, a hated tax collector and Simon the Zealot, who was politically an opposite to Matthew.

Based on their strengths, though, Christ knew how each would contribute to the other members of the team and their overall potential success. Thus, diversity can serve as a real asset when selecting and building a team.

How prayerful and strategic are you

when selecting new team members?

2. Team Synergy

It’s one thing to select the members for a team carefully but quite another to have them learn to work effectively together. You want the team's combined efforts to be 1+1= 3, 4 or 5, not just 2!

The Holy Spirit turned this group of men, characterized by confusion, infighting and self-interest, into a genuinely synergistic team. Their action together increased the effectiveness of each member of the team.

Jesus invested hours and hours of training and hands-on experiences to shape, and to mould His team into a tightly knit unit. He taught them how to combine their strengths to help one another grow. He challenged them to grow in their areas of weakness so they were able to preach and have the authority to drive out demons. (Mark 3:14-15) . However, He also knew clearly how to weed out a Judas from the team.

Such a diversified team may be tougher to lead, but training lions is more exciting than feeding goldfish!

In what ways are you investing in your team(s)

development so synergistically they are

accomplishing more than they could individually?

3. Team Success

The team of Twelve that Christ built was very successful. The church they led exploded out of Jerusalem, around the world and across two thousand years of history.

Their success was driven by the belief in their purpose and the faith in their leader. Together, they learned to value and respect one another as they strove for a common goal.

Christ took the opportunity to affirm His team as He did with Peter:

Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’

Jesus replied, ‘Blessed are you . . . for this was not revealed

to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.

Matthew 16:13-20

Then, He honoured Peter by expressing his confidence in the disciple’s future key role in leading His church. Peter went on to develop a team of men and women who were to storm the Roman Empire with the gospel.

How do you affirm your team members

who are effective in striving for the

purpose and goals set before them?

In conclusion, when building a team, prayerfully make individual selections that will contribute towards team synergy and produce the success needed to accomplish your goals. That is ultimately what Christ did, and His team literally changed the world, including each of us!

Building Strong Partnerships

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:15:53 GMT

Three Important Factors in Healthy Alliances

Business is all about relationships! You offer a product, package, program or service which you believe is needed. Potential customers or clients come to you to have their needs met in life. Therefore, relationships of trust and mutual benefit are very important to you as a business leader.

However, like me, you’ve probably experienced what we thought was a good relationship go sour and turn on you, costing a lot of pain and loss. Sometimes it’s hard to know who is your friend and who is your foe. Remember, a foe has to go!

Throughout Scripture, we find evidence of both healthy and unhealthy alliances that leaders made. Let’s take a few moments to consider three important factors in developing healthy alliances.

1. Forming Alliances

An alliance is formed when one or more parties come together for their mutual benefits. Therefore, the benefit is the focus of the alliance or relationship.

Take, for instance, when David was fleeing Saul, he recognized that he’d be much better off with a number of alliances than trying to go it alone (1 Samuel 22:1-5) . Notice his needs and the nature of the alliances he formed:

Manpower alliance: David attracted others to fight who believed in his cause
Power alliance: He chose the King of Moab who was well positioned to help
Spiritual alliance: David aligned with the prophet Gad to gain God’s direction

When it comes to healthy alliances in business, like David, you need to pick carefully and for a very specific purpose that is well understood by both parties. As God’s leader, you already have an alliance with Him, our Saviour & Lord. So, it only makes sense to consult with him when considering alliances.

Don’t learn the hard way like Judah’s worthless treaty with Egypt in the Old Testament. Listening to God can help you avoid this:

“What sorrow awaits my rebellious children,” says the Lord.

“You make plans that are contrary to mine.

You make alliances not directed by my Spirit, thus piling up your sins.

Isaiah 30:1

Are your current alliances healthy or

do the they need to be treated like foes that have go?

2. Forging Alliances

A business leader must be careful with whom an alliance is not only formed but also forged. Building a strong alliance must be based on mutual trust and respect which can only be achieved over time.

Obviously, both parties must have a common set of values and ethics that emerge from the Word of God. Beyond that, relationships will grow as you listen and learn from one another. Understanding the needs and expectations of one another are critical to grow and solidify a healthy alliance.

However, be careful as Solomon reminds us when talking about friends or alliances:

“There are “friends” who destroy each other,

but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.”

Proverbs 18:24

Cultivating honest and transparent communication is a wonderful asset to have in an alliance. If ever in doubt, you’re best to have the tough conversation. If a friend – great, but if not the let the foe go as soon as possible.

What questions do you need to ask to ensure

that your alliances are healthy & beneficial?

3. Fruitful Alliances

Effective leaders use all their strength by recognizing, developing and utilizing people around them both on their team and on other teams. Healthy alliances can be tremendously fruitful, productive and profitable. Going it alone will never get you as far as if you employ alliances that help you both accomplish your goals.

The most fruitful alliances reflect the following spirit of Paul’s words:

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble,

thinking of others as better than yourselves.

Don’t look out only for your own interests,

but take an interest in others, too.

Philippians 2:3-4

While in the middle of serving others, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover that your needs are not ignored but instead met as a by-product of a healthy alliance.

How do you look out for the interest

of others in your current alliances?

Of the distresses of your day?

In conclusion, when you form new alliances be careful that they are mutually beneficial. As you forge your alliances make sure they are built on the same values and expectations. Remember the most fruitful alliances are built through employing Paul’s style of servant leadership.

Let’s remember Solomon’s words,

”Walk with the wise and become wise;
associate with fools and get in trouble.”

Proverbs 13:20

Decisions That Work!

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 18:18:23 GMT

Four Prerequisites for Making Decisions

Making decisions can be tough in business! Easy answers can often evade us as leaders, especially when they are not simply black and white but rather have multiple choices.

It takes a lot of wisdom to make the right choices! Thankfully, the source of wisdom is offered to us in James 1:5.

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you.

He will not rebuke you for asking.

I’m reminded of the many tough decisions that Nehemiah faced while rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. It all began when he became aware of the devastation and destruction of the walls meant to protect his homeland, Jerusalem.

On hearing of the situation in Nehemiah 1 (v4), his response was very emotional:

When I heard this, I sat down and wept.

In fact, for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven.

Knowing something had to be done, Nehemiah was faced with a tough decision. Should he risk his life in approaching the King for the help he needed or seek another alternative?

What he did next could serve to inform us, as leaders. Before deciding, Nehemiah turned immediately to God in prayer. In fact, his prayer in Nehemiah 1:5-11 provides us with four important prerequisites needed before making those tough decisions.

1. Acknowledge Who God Is

In approaching God, Nehemiah turns to fully acknowledging who He is and His unfailing love:

Then I said, “O Lord, God of heaven, the great and awesome

God who keeps his covenant of unfailing love with those who

love him and obey his commands listen to my prayer!

Nehemiah 1-5:6 (NLT)

The best place to start when faced with tough decisions is to start by going to our Heavenly Father to seek His direction. Words of worship spoken to Him gain His immediate attention. As His children, He is ready to respond when we acknowledge Him and who He is to us.

Do you readily turn to and acknowledge your

Heavenly Father when faced with a tough decision?

2. Admit Your Shortcomings

In the presence of God, Nehemiah then readily confessed to his own shortcomings and sin! He knew he needed to clean up his act and in humility called out:

listen to my prayer! Look down and see me praying night and day

for your people Israel. I confess that we have sinned against you.

Yes, even my own family and I have sinned! We have sinned terribly

by not obeying the commands, decrees, and regulations that you gave

us through your servant Moses.

Nehemiah 1:6-7 (NLT)

As strong competent leaders, at times we can presume upon our relationship with our Heavenly Father without taking the time to reevaluate our standing before Him. Admitting our shortcomings in humility shows our dependency on Him as the one we serve.

Are you willing to humble yourself by admitting your sins

to our almighty God upon whom we’re dependent?

3. Appreciate His Promises

Nehemiah then reminds God of His promises to His people even though they were unfaithful and had paid the price.

“Please remember what you told your servant Moses: ‘If you are unfaithful to me,

I will scatter you among the nations. But if you return to me and obey my

commands and live by them, then even if you are exiled to the ends of the

earth, I will bring you back to the place I have chosen for my name to be honored.’

“The people you rescued by your great power and strong hand are your servants.

Nehemiah 1:8-10 (NLT)

Taking time to thank God for His promises and His faithfulness in fulfilling them brings fresh hope and assurance that He hears you. He will answer and provide wisdom when facing tough decision.

Do you remind God of His promises to you in His Word

And your desire to have them fulfilled once again?

4. Ask For His Support

Finally, Nehemiah asked God to hear his need and his request for the king’s approval of his request:

O Lord, please hear my prayer! Listen to the prayers of those of

us who delight in honoring you. Please grant me success today

by making the king favorable to me. Put it into his heart to be kind to me.”

Nehemiah 1:11 (NLT)

Do you bring specific requests to God around

those tough decisions knowing He will answer?

Only a short time after his prayer, Nehemiah received his confirmation and approached the King for the assistance he needed. In fact, the King’s response was not only positive but also far exceeded his expectations.

In conclusion: God is always open to hear our specific requests in times of need. He will answer by either giving us our request or by providing us with insights into alternative options. All He asks is for us to wait patiently on Him.

Remember these four prerequisites that Nehemiah took to God around his tough decision. He acknowledged who God is and admitted his own inadequacy . He claimed the promises of God and then made his specific request for help with clarifying and confirming his vision for Jerusalem.

Handling The Unexpected

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 10:45:00 GMT

Three Ways to Handle Unexpected Situations

As leaders, we put practices and processes in place to help fulfill our operational goals which, in turn, will accomplish our purposes for existing as a business.

However, no matter how well we establish our plans, there are times when the totally unexpected emerges which may stop us in our tracks and cause us to ask, “Now what am I to do?”

This is where, as leaders, we must be ready to respond to the specific circumstance or situation that is out of the norm.

It’s helpful to be reminded from Scripture of how leaders in the past, including Jesus, handled the unexpected situations that arose under their leadership.

Situational leadership appears to have followed a 3-step process of awareness, analysis and application.

1. Situational Awareness

When a different situation arises, probably one of the biggest mistakes a leader can make is to assume that everything is normal and will simply pass with time. It takes a keen sense of awareness to recognize when there is a need for a response of a different kind.

For instance, Moses taught Joshua well practiced strategies for attacking their enemies successfully. However, he knew situations would arise when Joshua would need to be aware of the need for an unusual and exceptional approach.

As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning,

but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning.

When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him

and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side,

one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset.

Exodus 17:11-12

As a leader, it’s important to ask God to give you the sense of awareness when the normal and ordinary processes need to be adapted to handle unexpected circumstances.

Recall a time when you almost missed the awareness of a

need for an exceptional approach to a particular situation.

What did you learn?

2. Situational Analysis

Given the sense of awareness that the situation at hand is exceptional, the next step is to take time to analyze what needs to happen or needs to be done.

Nehemiah was repeatedly confronted with difficult and threatening circumstances requiring him to analyze his options carefully in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem.

Meanwhile, the people in Judah said, “The strength of the laborers is giving out,

and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.” Also, our enemies

said “Before they know it or see us, we will be right there among them and

will kill them and put an end to the work.” Then the Jews who lived near them

came and told us ten times over, “Wherever you turn, they will attack us.”

Therefore, I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall

at the exposed places, posting them by families, with their swords, spears, and bows.

Nehemiah 4:10-13

Obviously, Nehemiah demonstrated mastery of a wide range of leadership skills. Notice that he didn’t deal with all opposition to the work in the same manner.

He demonstrated consistency in his leadership, not because he acted consistently but because he consistently acted in a manner that addressed the situation at hand.

Ask God to help you develop this kind of a skill set

that meets the unique needs of each situation.

3. Situational Adaptation

Once a leader has become aware and analyzed the needs of a particular situation, then it requires standard practices and processes to be adapted to respond appropriately.

In preparing and equipping His apostles for their mission, Jesus demonstrated how effectively He adapted His leadership responses to the realities of the situation.

Jesus instructed His disciples when they were uninformed, directed them when they were confused, prodded them when they were reluctant and encouraged them when they were downhearted.

When they were ready, He allotted them limited tasks and responsibilities and then participated with them guiding them through their assignments. Finally, Jesus empowered and commissioned them as His apostles.

Adapting to the specific need in each situation is critical for leadership success.

Identify three recent occasions when you needed to

adapt your response to meet a specific need.

Situational leadership requires that a leader have awareness of when it is needed. Then through careful analysis consider the circumstances and the various options available to response to the situation. Finally, the leader must adapt in his/her response to effectively meet the need of the situation.

Encouragement Makes A Difference

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 21:22:41 GMT

Three Important Values Of Encouragement

Whether your business is up or down, your staff needs your support and encouragement. Words of encouragement bring hope during tough times and energy during the good times.

The early success of Paul’s ministry in the New Testament was premised on the words of encouragement that Barnabas provided to the disciples in Jerusalem. However, based on Paul’s previous reputation for zealotry and cruelty, it was no wonder the disciples questioned his newly declared faith.

The right words at the right time can produce wonderful results in your business and ministry. So, let’s look to the Word of God to learn how purpose, power, and place can maximize the value of encouragement.

1. The Purpose of Encouragement

From God’s perspective, words of encouragement are intended to bring the best out of us as we endeavour to live our lives purposefully for Him. We never outgrow our Heavenly Father’s “encouraging, comforting and urging to live lives worthy of God.”

For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father

deals with his own children, encouraging, comforting

and urging you to live lives worthy of God,

who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

1 Thessalonians 2:11-12

If you really want others to understand and witness the evidence of Christ in their lives, then our goal is to encourage them in heart (emotionally) and be united in love (action).

My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love,

so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding,

in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ.

Colossians 2:2

Daily identify at least one person to whom you can give

a word of encouragement or an act of kindness.

2. The Power of Encouragement

Words and acts of encouragement have the power to carry a person through some of life’s most difficult circumstances. During tough times it’s easy to lose perspective as you focus on the pain of the present.

Encouragement brings hope and an awareness that you’re not all alone in these situations. God promises that awareness of His presence can and will carry you through some of the greatest threats in your life.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when

you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned;

the flames will not set you ablaze.

Isaiah 43:2

God’s comfort and compassion are provided to support us in our troubles. In turn, we can powerfully comfort and encourage others in trouble because of what we’ve received from Him.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,

who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can

comfort those in any trouble with the comfort

we ourselves receive from God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

In what ways do you practice encouragement when you know

someone is going through difficult time of trouble?

3. The Place for Encouragement

There’s a time and place for everything, including encouragement. As believers, we have the privilege of meeting together which provides an excellent opportunity to “spur” or “provoke” each other toward love and good deeds.

Working in the business world brings unique challenges. Therefore, regularly meeting with other Christians can serve as a wonderful place of encouragement, especially when centred around the Scripture and in prayer.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,

not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but

encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:24-25

Do you have a small group of Christian friends with whom

you can be a source of encouragement for one another?

In conclusion, we all benefit from encouraging words and acts to energize and give us hope when it’s needed most. So, look for opportunities to show others what you also value by way of encouragement today.

Relationships That Make A Difference!

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:32:22 GMT

Three Basics for Handling Relationships

Relationships are integral to the success of any business! After all, leadership is about people in relationships. The value of people skills in the workplace can hardly be overstated.

Studies show that 85 percent of the reason people get a job, keep that job, and move ahead in that job has to do with people skills and people knowledge. The other 15% rely on their technical skill and knowledge, according to Stanford Research Institute, Harvard University and the Carnegie Foundation. ¹

Relationships form the basis and for the purpose and entire essence of the Bible. The Bible is the story of relationships since the beginning of creation.

Therefore, it only makes sense to turn to its pages to learn the basics of relationships. Let’s consider the purpose, priority and posture of relationships in our daily lives and work settings.

1. The Purpose of Relationships

God created us in His image and for a relationship with Him. The example of how relationships are to work is evidenced in the community formed by the Father, Son & Holy Spirit in the Trinity.

So God created mankind in his own image,

in the image of God he created them;

male and female he created them.

Genesis 1:27

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God,

and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

2 Corinthians 13:14

The Trinity teaches us that people need other people. We were made to live in community and to have meaningful love relationships with one another. Each person reflects a different aspect of who God is so that when we’re together, we have a greater appreciation of who God is. The purpose of relationships is to be in community with one another and God.

What do you appreciate about God as evidenced

by those within your “community?”

2. The Priority in Relationships

God desires to restore our relationship with Him and see us become more like Him. Jesus stated our priority, knowing that we will become more like our creator as we do this.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul

and with all your strength and with all your mind

and, love your neighbor as yourself.

Luke 10:27

Considering this priority, numerous examples and reminders of how to handle our interpersonal relationships are woven throughout the scriptures.

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to

speak and slow to become angry.

James 1:19

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths,

but only what is helpful for building others up according

to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Ephesians 4:29

Fostering good interpersonal relationships must focus on loving God and loving our neighbour to fulfill God’s command.

What other scriptures do you recall that help

to guide our interpersonal relationships?

3. The Posture in Relationships

Paul teaches us the posture that our interpersonal relationships should take, as exemplified through the life of Christ.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility

value others above yourselves, not looking to your own

interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Philippians 2:3-4

Interpersonal relationships flourish when we humbly look out for the best interests of each other rather than our self-interests. Self-centeredness is almost always at the root of interpersonal conflict.

Today, look for ways in which you can intentionally

put the needs and interests ahead of yours.

The purpose of relationships is to experience community, as the Father does within the Godhead. The priority of a relationship is for us to love God and love one another. Our posture in a relationship is for each of us to be other centered rather than self-centered.

1 Zig Ziglar, Top Performance (New York: Berkeley Books, 1986), p. 11.

Listen-Learn-Lead

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 15:40:34 GMT

Three Essential Steps in Communicating Effectively

At times, communication can seem like two ships passing in the night! The leader states what he thinks is well understood, while the employee hears what he thinks the leader said only to find out that the message was completely misunderstood.

The bottom line is a leader must first listen carefully in order to learn another’s perspective before leadership can be effective. Looking into scripture, we find these three essential steps of LISTEN – LEARN – LEAD for effective communication.

1. Listen

The skill of listening is tough to develop because we’re so intent on saying what’s on our minds that we don’t even consider what’s going on in another person’s mind. Out of frustration with His people, God told Isaiah how they would respond to his message:

And he said, “Yes, go. But tell my people this: ‘Though you hear my

words repeatedly, you won’t understand them. Though you watch

and watch as I perform my miracles, still you

won’t know what they mean.’

Isaiah 6:9 (TLB)

Taking time to listen to another person genuinely is a gift of seeking their best interests before your own. Asking clarification questions about what they are expressing will build understanding, which will result in a relationship of trust and respect. This is essential for quality communication. Proverb throws out this warning:

To answer before listening—

that is folly and shame.

Proverbs 18:13

Ask a colleague privately to observe your listening skills

in a group meeting and then to suggest ways

to improve your skill.

2. Learn

The more you listen, the more you will learn about another person’s thinking and frame of reference. In fact, with those insights, what you had intended to say may need some modification for your message to be fully understood.

Not taking time to learn cannot only lead to misunderstanding but also frustration and even anger, as James so aptly pointed out:

Everyone should be quick to listen

slow to speak and slow to become angry,

because human anger does not produce

the righteousness that God desires.

James 1:19-20

Taking time to learn the perspective of another, may lead to changing the message, the timing of its delivery or even how it’s communicated. This will increase the likelihood of the message being fully understood, increasing the value you have for one another.

How much time have you taken to really listen

and learn more about your employees?

3. Lead

Time is well spent listening and learning from your employee because it equips you to lead in ways you couldn’t before. In addition, the employee feels they are being heard, respected and understood. Following your lead will become more natural and comfortable rather than being stress-filled and even a struggle.

You can become wise and even more respected as a leader by listening and learning with humility. James put it this way:

Who is wise and understanding among you?

Let them show it by their good life, by deed

done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

James 3:13

When you find your leadership lacking in its effectiveness

take time to listen and learn from each person on the team

for that time will be well-spent opening new

channels of communication.

Responding to Conflicts

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 12:32:43 GMT

Three Strategies for Handling Conflict

Although conflicts are hard to handle, in and of themselves, they are essentially natural, normal, and neutral! The real issue around conflicts is how you handle them when they come your way.

Because each of us is created uniquely and we live in such a complex world, it isn’t surprising that the potential for conflicts is on every side of us. We can expect to face conflicts countless times in our daily life.

Conflicts bring with them a tremendous opportunity to grow individually and relationally. So, the sooner we learn strategies for handling conflicts, the more productive the outcomes of conflicts can become.

Following the life of Christ in the New Testament, we can identify at least three strategies that he used to handle conflicts. Sometimes, he competed to win the conflict, other times, he simply went calm and quiet and then, at times, he used a care-confronting approach. Let’s take a look at each conflict management strategy.

1. The Strategy of Competition

Christ chose to compete for a win when He found the temple courts being used for sinful purposes. He used force to demonstrate His inability to tolerate such abuse. In other words, He faced the conflict head-on with a competing “win-lose” attitude.

Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were

buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the

money changers and the benches of those selling doves.

“It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called

a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.”

Matthew 21:12-13

This strategy makes sense if you’re protecting something of high value to you (morals, values, justice, etc.) and you’re not concerned with how your fight will affect those relationships long term.

Recall a situation when you used a “win-lose”

approach to handling a conflict.

2. The Strategy of Calmness

A totally opposite approach to conflict was used by Christ when the search was on to find false witnesses against Him that would justify His being put to death by the religious leaders of His day.

Instead of competing in a “win-lose” approach, He chose rather to simply remain calm, quiet and silent. In a sense, he withdrew from a fight and avoided it all together.

The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for false evidence

against Jesus so that they could put him to death. But they did not find any,

though many false witnesses came forward. Finally, two came forward and

declared, “This fellow said, ‘I am able to destroy the temple of God and

rebuild it in three days.’” Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus,

Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these

men are bringing against you?” But Jesus remained silent.

Matthew 26:59-63

Why did Christ choose to withdraw? In part because He knew what would inevitably happen. He had already pleaded with His Father to intervene to no avail! (Matthew 26:39).

For us, this strategy makes sense if the outcome is not that important to you or not worth the fight. Or, on the other hand, you may recognize that you don’t have what it takes to bring about a different outcome to this conflict.

Recall the dynamics when, faced with a conflict,

you chose to remain calm and silent.

3. The Strategy of Care-Confrontation

Probably the most common strategy used by Christ for dealing with conflict and differences was illustrated in His dealings with the woman at the well. In this situation, and many others, Christ chose to deal with an issue by showing how much he cared for a person or situation while also confronting the core issue.

The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and

have to keep coming here to draw water.” He told her, “Go, call your husband

and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are

right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five

husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband.

What you have just said is quite true.”

John 4:15-18

Using this care-confronting strategy demonstrates that the issue is very important, so you won’t force it or avoid it. By placing value and care on the relationship, you focus attention on the core issues at stake in this situation.

Recall a circumstance where you cared for

a relationship while addressing the core issues.

So just as Christ demonstrated in His lifetime, when managing conflict, you need different strategies in your “toolbox.” There are no right or wrong tools rather each is meant for a specific purpose. So, the next time you face a conflict, ask God for wisdom and ask yourself, “Should I compete , remain calm (silent) or care-confront ?”

Making Justice A Reality

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 13:57:56 GMT

Three Insights about Justice

Leadership is a complex issue. Add the commitment to do it well, to leading in a pleasing way to God, and the complications increase. As a leader, I want to think and act in ways that are fair, just, and right. So, I need to carefully consider Biblical principles as I lead those for whom I have responsibility under my employ.

My aspiration, as a leader, is described well by Amos when he said,

But let justice roll on like a river,
righteousness like a never-failing stream!

Amos 5:24

The importance of justice is woven throughout Scripture which provides us many insights. Let’s look at how justice is presented, prioritized, and practiced.

1. Justice Presented

God has tremendous fervor for justice as a component of His moral perfection. According to Isaiah, when God shows compassion and justice, he is simply being Himself.

Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you;
therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.
For the Lord is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!

Isaiah 30:18

Similarly, God’s loathing for injustice is a component of His opposition to unrighteousness. Sin is anything contrary to the character of God while righteousness is identified as conformity to God’s character. Sin is associated with self-centeredness, while justice and righteousness are other-centered expressions.

How often do I let self-centeredness take over

when I should really be other-centered?

2. Justice Prioritized

God’s priority and passion for justice is evident from Genesis through Revelation. This is especially true in the writings of the poets and the prophets.

The Lord loves righteousness and justice;

the earth is full of his unfailing love.

Psalm 33:5

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne;

love and faithfulness go before you.

Psalm 89:14

The works of his hands are faithful and just;

all his precepts are trustworthy.

Psalm 111:7

For I, the Lord, love justice;
I hate robbery and wrongdoing.

Isaiah 61:8

Justice was also a priority for Jesus, conspicuous in how He transcended social, racial and economic barriers in His ministry.

In what ways do I intentionally demonstrate my commitment

to living out justice and fairness in my workplace?

3. Justice Practiced

Putting justice into practice is easier said than done. However, the prophet Micah cut to the heart of the issue when he answers his own questions:

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

In essence, his admonition sounds like Jesus as he expounded the Golden Rule: Behave justly and mercifully toward other people and walk humbly before God.

Looking closer at these three responses, to “act justly” refers to the quality of being impartial or fair. “Love mercy” is being moved by compassion to tangibly respond to a person in need tangibly. And finally, “walking humbly” with God recognizes the poverty of mind, soul, spirit and body that we all possess without the grace of God.

Leaders who “walk humbly with your God” recognize their human foibles and are more apt to lead humanely to their employees. Leaders who cry out to God to be fair, just, and merciful are more apt to grant others what they know they need from God.

Who do you have in your life and work that will keep

you accountable to be fair, just, and right?

Remember what Christ promised in the Sermon on the Mount when He announced the Beatitudes:

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for

righteousness, for they will be filled.

Matt 5:6

Time Makes A Difference

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 09:45:00 GMT

Three Considerations Around Time

The author of the “Purpose Driven Life,” Rick Warren, has said, “Time is your most precious gift, because you only have a set amount of it.”

When you ponder this, you realize that this statement has a lot of truth. Not only is time limited, but it is also non retrievable. When it’s gone, it’s gone, never to be reused.

Reading the Scriptures, we discover that time is precious and must also be taken into perspective and used with a sense of priority .

1. The Preciousness of Time

God has given us time which is but a short segment of all eternity which is why it is so valuable. He created us with a sense of eternity in our hearts. We have no idea what God has in mind for all eternity.

He has made everything beautiful in its time.

He has also set eternity in the human heart;

Yet no one can fathom what God has

done from beginning to end.

Ecclesiastes 3:11

The more we recognize the value of such a limited resource as time, the more we’re challenged to count our days and use them wisely. As David declared, we gain wisdom when considering the days we’ve been given.

Teach us to number our days,

that we may gain a heart of wisdom .

Psalm 90:12

In what ways do you acknowledge that

time is a precious and valuable resource?

2. A Perspective on Time

From a human perspective, time is largely a finite resource. However, from God’s perspective, time is defined quite differently. He sees time in the context of all eternity which only He can comprehend.

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends:

With the Lord a day is like a thousand years,

and a thousand years are like a day.

2 Peter 3:8

It’s very easy to see things through our human perspective, but that is only temporary and limited to our time on this earth. To God, that which is unseen to us is of utmost importance to Him. So, by faith, He asks us to focus on the eternal more than on our limited human perspective.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen,

since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:18

How do you keep the eternal in your perspective

besides the finite perspective here on earth?

3. The Priority of Time

Choosing how we use our limited time becomes a priority in our lives. The better we understand God’s will for our lives, the wiser we become in selecting our priorities. Our goal needs to be to make the most of every opportunity. Unfortunately, evil forces around us want to keep us distracted from doing God’s will.

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise,

making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

Ephesians 5:15-17

Our priorities in using our time must focus on His Kingdom's values and living our lives to please him. If we do this, then everything else falls in place. God has promised to provide all of our needs when our priorities align with His for our lives.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,

and all these things will be given to you as well.

Matthew 6:33

How do you align your priorities

with God’s priorities for your life?

Truly, each of us has been given the precious gift of time. Keeping His perspective and priorities before us will result in a life that maximizes the value of that gift. The result will be a life that is most fulfilling and pleasing to Him.

Clarifying Your Vision!

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 09:45:00 GMT

Three Essentials for Developing & Fulfilling a Vision

Vision is one of the most important defining characteristics of effective leadership.

A valuable leadership vision - “one that focuses action, provides direction, and inspires your stakeholders in all parts of life to move in a direction you choose — is a compelling image of an achievable future.” (https://hbr.org/2009/05/the-most-compelling-leadership.html)

When a vision is well-articulated with passion, it's amazing how readily others will catch it and want to be involved in making it happen! There are countless examples of vision being created and achieved in the Bible. One that especially stands out is the story of Nehemiah’ who was devastated by the deteriorated condition of his ancestral city, Jerusalem. Let’s look at three essentials to the shaping and the accomplishment of Nehemiah’s vision in chapter one.

1. Creating a Vision

Vision often emerges out of a present need or a need in the future. This was Nehemiah’s experience:

They said to me, “Things are not going well for those who returned to the province of Judah.

They are in great trouble and disgrace.The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.”

When I heard this, I sat down and wept. In fact, for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven.

Nehemiah 1:3-4 (NLT)

Nehemiah’s first response was an emotional one in the presence of the Lord.

He began by acknowledging who God is and admitted his own inadequacy. He claimed the promises of God and then made his request for help with clarifying and confirming his vision for Jerusalem.

Nehemiah knew he would need approval by the right people (the king), and he’d have to do his homework.

So I arrived in Jerusalem. Three days later, I slipped out during the night, taking only a few others with me.

I had not told anyone about the plans God had put in my heart for Jerusalem. We took no pack animals with us except

the donkey I was riding. After dark I went out through the Valley Gate, past the Jackal’s Well, and over to the Dung Gate

to inspect the broken walls and burned gates. Then I went to the Fountain Gate and to the King’s Pool, but my donkey

couldn’t get through the rubble. So, though it was still dark, I went up the Kidron Valley instead, inspecting the wall

before I turned back and entered again at the Valley Gate.

Nehemiah 2:11-15 (NLT)

Then, Nehemiah went about creating a vision and a plan for what the future could look like for Jerusalem.

Does your vision include acknowledging who

God is and what He has called you to do?

2. Communicating a Vision

After seeking God’s face and doing his preliminary research behind the senses, Nehemiah was ready to share his vision.

A well-articulated vision presented with passion can inspire others to take on the challenge. This was precisely Nehemiah’s experience:

But now I said to them, “You know very well what trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates

have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace!”

Then I told them about how the gracious hand of God had been on me,

and about my conversation with the king. They replied at once, “Yes, let’s rebuild the wall!”

So they began the good work.

Nehemiah 2:17-18 (NLT)

God’s people were inspired, for Nehemiah’s passionate presentation had all of the hallmarks of an amazing vision. He had sought God’s direction, gained approval and support from the King, and had done his initial research.

Are you passionate about the vision God has

given you and able to inspire others to action?

3. Committing to a Vision

Once a commitment to a vision has been made, it’s not uncommon for issues, opposition and obstacles to emerge. But, flexing his plans to handle whatever occurred, Nehemiah responded, with confidence, to the opposition that God was on their side.

But when Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab heard of our plan, they scoffed contemptuously.

“What are you doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” they asked. I replied,

“The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall.

But you have no share, legal right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.”

Nehemiah 2:19-20 (NLT)

Ultimately, a team of inspired and committed people can accomplish amazing goals! This is exactly what happened to God’s people.

So on October 2 the wall was finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun.

When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it,

they were frightened and humiliated.

They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.

Nehemiah 6:15-16 (NLT)

What an amazing feat and the vision was fulfilled in only 52 days!

With your committed team, are you ready to handle

the obstacles and naysayers who get in the way of success?

A vision well-crafted with a sense of His blessing that is passionately communicated can inspire astonishing commitment to see it become a reality!

What vision has God given you to meet a need that He has brought to your attention? Can He count on your leadership to make it happen with the support of His people?

Making Accountability Work

Fri, 31 May 2024 11:56:57 GMT

Three Critical Areas of Accountability

As a business leader, I realize the importance of delegating work to capable staff. However, with delegation comes the responsibility to accomplish the job. With responsibility comes accountability to ensure that the work gets done according to expectations.

Scripture clearly describes three critical areas of accountability that, as leaders, are foundational to our business success. First, consider the importance of personal accountability, which affects my relational accountability and leadership accountability. As Paul reminds us:

So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.

Romans 14:12 - ESV

Let’s take a few moments to consider each from God’s perspective.

1. Personal Accountability

As a leader, I can’t just presume that I’m living up to God’s expectations. My natural tendency is quite the opposite. Jeremiah has lots to say about this:

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick;

who can understand it?”

Jeremiah 17:9 - ESV

Just as I hold my employees to account, God says that He is also tracking not only what I do but what I think, as well.

“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind,

to give every man according to his ways,

according to the fruit of his deeds.”

Jeremiah 17:10 - ESV

God doesn’t mince His words as He expects me to take full responsibility for our actions. James reminds us:

So whoever knows the right thing to do

and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

James 4:17 - ESV

Take time to pray asking the Holy Spirit if I need to

repent or change in some area of my life or work .

2. Relational Accountability

God calls me, as a leader, to also have accountability to one another as His people. As I build relationships with other believers individually and in a small group, they can help me grow and become more aligned with God’s expectations for me. Paul said it well with:

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up,

just as you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 - ESV

These relationships can become very personal at a level many of us are not accustomed to experiencing. When we become free to admit our struggles and sins to others, it can bring healing. The prayers of those friends can be powerful to help me grow in intimacy with my Heavenly Father.

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray

for each other so that you may be healed.

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

James 5:16 - ESV

In what ways am I deepening relationships with other believers

with whom I can share my struggles and experience their healing prayers?

3. Leadership Accountability

Finally, I will need to account for how I handle my responsibilities as a leader. In fact, according to scripture, I’m held to an even higher standard in light of my leadership position:

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers,

because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.

James 3:1 - ESV

One of the best ways to keep myself accountable as a leader is to ensure that I have a carefully selected group of advisors to help me make the best decisions for those who work under my employ, especially in difficult times. Solomon wrote a lot about this in his proverbs:

Without counsel plans fail, but with

many advisers they succeed.

Proverbs 15:22 - ESV

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,

but a wise man listens to advice.

Proverbs 12:15 - ESV

How many and how often do I take time

to ask for seek the wise counsel and

advice of trust business colleagues?

Remember that Personal Accountability begins first as I account of my words and thoughts before God. Then, I can experience Relational Accountability within a community of trusted believers. As we support and pray for each other, we will grow responsibly in His likeness. The result of these two levels of accountability will have a profound impact on your Leadership Accountability in your business and with your employees.

Change Is Hard To Do!

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT

Three Ways to Handle Change

As a leader, I value predictability, stability, and security. However, the only thing I can be assured of is that change will consistently disrupt those values. Change is not easy to handle at the best of times.

Change can be complex, calling for responses not only on business fronts but also in our personal lives. However, as Christians, we can confidently serve a God who never changes even if He is full of surprises in how he accomplishes His work in and through us.

Every good and perfect gift is from above,

coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,

who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

Throughout scripture, we find examples of how change was and can be handled today. Since we’re so often facing change, especially during the recent pandemic, how can we handle it with: Confidence, Courage and Character.

1. Confidence During Change

In times of change, we need a foundation of core values to place our complete confidence. Humanly speaking, as we saw during the pandemic, virtually everything can be put up for change. This is why, we must place our rock bottom confidence in our God, who is large and in charge. So then, we can be confident that:

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Hebrews 13:8

This confidence in God assures us that no matter what’s happening, He knows what He’s up to as Isaiah wrote,

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Isaiah 43:19

What evidences do you have that God is at work in your life

through the changes that, as a leader, you have and are facing?

2. Courage During Change

We read about a radical change God presented to Abram in Genesis that required incredible courage to act upon.

The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people

and your father’s household to the land I will show you.

“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you;

I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.

Genesis 12:1-3

God called for a complete overhaul of Abram’s career, dreams, destiny and even a name change. All the anchors that you and I count on for stability were challenged. However, Abraham believed fully in God’s promise and His presence, which provided him with the security to pursue revolutionary change.

Now, it’s seldom, if ever, that we’re called to make such massive changes as Abraham did. However, we can take courage from the words of Isaiah when facing changes:

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,

for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never

leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

How have you demonstrated courage in the

face of recent challenging changes?

3. Character During Change

Change can have a tremendous impact on many facets of our business practice. However, what’s impacted even more deeply is our character. How we process change deep within will become clearly evident to those around us.

I can respond to changes with death, doom and gloom, or see changes as opportunities, possibilities, and hope. Paul expresses this well when he said to the Corinthians:

Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away,

yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary

troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since

what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:16 -18

God uses change to serve as a character builder in our lives. He is striving to develop and shape our lives to be conformed to the image of His Son, Jesus Christ. Therefore, our response needs to be full of faith and not fear, for God is using change to shape our character.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the

renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve

what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 12:2

What changes have you witnessed in your own life

when it comes to how you handle changes now compared to in the past?

Change is natural, normal, and inevitable but how we respond to it makes all the difference in the world. As followers of Christ, we can take confidence in the unchanging nature of our Heavenly Father. We can have courage in the face of change because we are assured that God’s promises and His presence are with us. We can rest assured that God is constantly using change to develop Christ-like character within us.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,

who have been called according to his purpose. Roman 8:28

Looking through God’s perspective, change that can often be seen as an enemy can now be seen as an opportunity to draw closer to God as your dearest friend and advocate.

Servant Leadership That Makes a Difference

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 09:45:00 GMT

Three Requirements for Servant Leadership

The rise and fall of many good businesses have been found to rest in the quality of leadership exercised. What are the essential traits of a successful leader? How can I learn to lead like that?

The most successful leaders have discovered that leading like a servant, as Jesus did, can make all the difference in the world. In Philippians 2:5-8, Paul describes Christ’s leadership by saying:

In your relationships with one another,

have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

Philippians 2:5

So, let’s look at the mindset that Jesus modeled in His servant leadership. From within this passage, three requirements for servant leadership become evident.

1. Servant Leadership Requires Humility

In our world of leadership today, leadership is often all about position and power. It’s all about finding the right people to help me and our company succeed. This is quite different from Christ’s leadership. Being himself, God, he could readily have used this to His advantage. Instead, however, He did the exact opposite:

Who, being in very nature[a] God,

did not consider equality with God

something to be used to his own advantage;

Philippians 2:6

In teaching His disciples, Jesus made it clear that leadership is all about humility and placing a higher value on those you work with than on yourself. He stated it succinctly when He said:

Anyone who wants to be first

must be the very last, and the servant of all.

Mark 9:35

In what ways do you humble yourself to

Serve the needs of your employees?

2. Servant Leadership Requires Transparency

Many leaders believe it’s important to “keep their cards close to their chest.” They want to create an image of having everything together and knowing everything. So, they posture to make themselves good. Rarely, if ever, do they admit to mistakes. Instead, they often spend more time fixing the blame than the problem.

Note the difference in Christ’s leadership. He chose to be honest and transparent, letting go of any image management.

Rather, he made himself nothing

by taking the very nature of a servant,

being made in human likeness.

Philippians 2:7

Christ went even further to say that the more we try to hang on to what we think is important, the more we lose it.

Whoever finds their life will lose it,

and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.

Matthew 10:39

When was the last time you admitted to your employees

that you don’t know it all or that you made a mistake?

3. Servant Leadership Requires Selflessness

Leaders out to serve and protect their self-interests do not build an environment of trust. Instead, they tend to repel employees rather than attract them. Ironically, the more focused on meeting their needs, the less likely they’ll be satisfied. Look after the needs of others, and you will be cared for.

Christ was so willing to look after the needs of others that He ultimately went to His death to meet our needs.

And being found in appearance as a man,

he humbled himself

by becoming obedient to death—

even death on a cross!

Philippians 2:8

Ultimately, Christ came serve others and not to be served Himself so He could fulfill His lifelong purpose for you and me.

Ultimately, Christ came to serve others, not to be served Himself, so that He could fulfill His lifelong purpose for you and me.

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served,

but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Mark 10:45

The definition of Christ’s servant leadership model is that it brings an influence to bear on others through personal humility and transparency while serving selflessly .

Why Did I Make That Decision?

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 12:39:53 GMT

Three Challenges for our Values

Those values have been formed and shaped by the influences of upbringing, family & friends, community, business, media, culture and hopefully through faith commitments.

When it comes to values, three challenges are faced:

How to identify one’s values

How to prioritize one’s values

How to evaluate one’s values

… Brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live

in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you

in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.

1 Thessalonians 4:1

1. Values Identified

Values are rooted in our core beliefs about what makes a life well-lived and about the behaviour we want to model for others. So, what do you value in life and business?

So much of life is lived on “auto-pilot” that we seldom reflect on what motivates us and guides our behaviour. However, the reality of what Jeremiah experienced is undoubtedly ours, as well:

The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.
Who can understand it?

Jeremiah 17:9

Our goal is to nurture and grow His values while working to eliminate the displeasing values which can thwart our desire to live a life that David spoke of:

Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain?

The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart.

Psalm 15:1-2

What are the values that are you committed to

both in your personal and business life?

2. Values Prioritized

A great place to start is with the challenge that Luke provides:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and

with all your strength and with all your mind; and,

Love your neighbor as yourself.

Luke 10:27

What is your most important value in life and

how do you demonstrate that to those around you?

3. Values Evaluated

For where your treasure is,

there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:21

For instance, to what degree do follow Micah’s declaration of God’s values?

What does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to

walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

To what degree is what you think and say in alignment

with the values you hold of greatest importance?

Your life is like an open book to your colleagues, family, and friends. How is your book of life being read?

Take time to identify your values. Prioritize your values . Then evaluate your values to ensure that you receive His “well done!” when you stand before Him one day.

I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according

to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.

Jeremiah 17:10

Are You Who You Say You Are?

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 12:49:57 GMT

Three Values That Can Keep You Real

Be careful!!! Unfortunately, not everyone is who you think they are when it comes to business integrity! Some leaders in their attempts to please everyone turn into hypocrites. So at times, you need to ask, “Are you for real?”

In the tough environment that we’re living in these days, our desire to survive and thrive amidst the demands can be stretching and very challenging. The temptation can emerge to gradually drift into questionable practices, can be very powerful.

Woven throughout the Bible are examples of leaders with integrity that were “for real!” Leaders such as Jacob, Joseph, Samuel, David, Paul and Barnabas. Each of these leaders held in common their focus on three important values that serve as fine reminders to each of us, as leaders.

1. Focus on Truth

Have you heard the saying, “you can’t stop a bird from landing on your head but you sure can stop it from building a nest in your hair!” When your thoughts tempt you to “fudge” what’s right - that’s when you need to take control.
The apostle Paul said,

“Fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, and right, and pure.”

Philippians 4:8

A leader of integrity lives a life of truth and honesty.

How do you keep thoughts that could jeopardize
your integrity from parking in your mind?

2. Focus on Trust

Relationships are what really matter! Integrity in relationships is all about trust, respect and honour. The ways in which you treat others says it all.

When you are truthful and honest, trust is earned. Using Christ’s example, Paul said,

“Speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ.”

Ephesians 4:15

How do you demonstrate that you honour others and
desire to have strong relationships of trust and respect?

3. Focus on Treasure

Your greatest treasure is that you are set apart for God’s purpose and His pleasure. To be set apart is to strive to live a holy life as our Heavenly Father. As a leader, you are called to live differently from the world system.

Being set apart, you have the treasure of God’s Word to serve as your guide for life and business. The closer your alignment with the truth of scripture, the greater your integrity will be evident to everyone with whom you have contact. Your life will be evidence of His story in all you say, do and promise.

Who do you have in your life that can help
you keep in alignment with God’s Word?

No leader wants to have the question asked, “Are you for real?” God calls you to value the truth, the trust and the treasure that have in Him and His Word. In doing so, you can live honest, honourable and holy lives of integrity.
As the Solomon reminds us:

“Integrity guides decent people, but hypocrisy
leads treacherous people to ruin.”

Proverbs 11:3

Who Really Has The Power?

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 10:45:00 GMT

Three Perspectives on Power & Influence

It has been said, “Power is America’s last dirty word . . . people who have it deny it and people who want it do not want to appear to hunger for it.”

The reality is that we all have power and influence whether it’s positional or personal power. So, the question really is what do you do with the power that you have now?

The Scriptures have much to say about power since it’s mentioned more than 300 times. Let’s take a closer look at where our power comes from, the problems and the practice of using power.

1. The Provision of Power

Humanly, power and influence may come from any several sources such as position, wealth, reputation, relationships, etc. Simplistically, we might categorize these as either positional or personal power sources.

However, we must remember that ultimately our source of power comes from God, our creator, as Paul writes in Colossians:

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth,

visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or

authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

Colossians 1:16

God’s power is clearly at work in and through us no matter what personal or positional power and influence we carry through life and work. With God’s power on our side, He can and will do far more than we could ever dream since He’s ultimately in charge and holds all of the power.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more

than all we ask or imagine, according to his

power that is at work within us.

Ephesians 3:20

In what ways do you acknowledge that

All power comes from God, our Creator?

2. The Problem with Power

From a human perspective, power is quite complex. It can be used for evil through fear, terror or tyranny. But on the other hand, it can be used for good to mobilize resources to get things done.

When it comes to evil use of power, we’re reminded of Paul’s words to the Ephesians when he said,

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,

but against the rulers, against the authorities,

against the powers of this dark world and against

the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:12

It’s important to realize that the evil use of power requires a spiritual battle. Therefore, we need to be prepared by putting on the armour of God as outlined in Ephesians 6:10-18.

When it comes to good power and influence, throughout the entire Scriptures, the highest priority is placed on caring for the less fortunate. Yet, time and again, the problem was the seeming inability of God’s people to get it as David wrote in the Psalms for example:

“How long will you[a] defend the unjust

and show partiality to the wicked?

Defend the weak and the fatherless;

uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.

Rescue the weak and the needy;

deliver them from the hand of the wicked.

Psalms 82:3-4

In what practical ways have you used your power and influence

to demonstrate your concern for those less fortunate?

3. The Practice of Power

As God’s people, our use of power will differ from that in the world around us.

The contrast is that the world uses power to control and lord over others, whereas power for God’s people is the opposite in practice.

When Jesus’ disciples were vying for position in heaven, Jesus pointed out their self-serving use of power to get ahead was reflecting the world’s perspective and not His which he explained in Matthew:

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it

over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you.

Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and

whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not

come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Matthew 20:24-28

In practice, power and influence are meant to serve others for their good. It is not all about us as leaders. Used properly, power and influence builds mutual respect and trust in our leadership.

In summary, all power and influence come from our Creator who commands us to care for the less fortunate. This is the problem! Most leaders do not obey this command. If we did in practice serve others, we’d find ourselves far more effective in our leadership. Power and influence would be seen and used in their rightful place in the lives of all .

Using What I Have Wisely

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:38:51 GMT

Three Principles to Guide Stewardship

According to the dictionary, Stewardship is “the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one's care.” The ultimate reality is that from the beginning of creation God entrusted humans to be careful and responsible in managing His creation.

Let’s take a few minutes to consider three principles that can guide our stewardship decisions considering what God has given to us.

1. Availability in our Stewardship

The Psalmist, David, reminded us of the fact that:

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,

the world, and all who live in it.

Psalm 24:1

In other words, the “stuff” we have is not ours but His! Simply stated, we’re all called to be stewards of everything available in our world since we only have it on loan from its rightful owner while we live on this earth.

Different resources are distributed differently. Whether you’re the Prime Minister or the street cleaner, we all have the same number of hours in a day to use wisely. On the other hand, we are each gifted with different skills and abilities with different potential. Likewise, we each have a varying amount of financial assets that we’re called to manage.

In every case, we’re called to be stewards of everything we have available in our lives. As Paul stated clearly,

Now it is required that those who have been given

a trust must prove faithful.

1 Corinthians 4:2

In what ways do you honour the fact that

you are a steward of everything that God has given you?

2. Acceptability in our Stewardship

As stewards, it’s important to remember who the owner is when making decisions on how to care for and be responsible on their behalf. You want to make wise decisions that the owner would find acceptable.

Jesus gave a wonderful guiding principle for what He expects of us as His stewards of everything in this world:

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,

and all these things will be given to you as well.

Matthew 6:33

His expectation becomes that filter through which we run each of our decisions in all areas of our lives. What God values is what He wants us to value. We can be assured He will meet your needs. So, it is wise to ask of ourselves:

Is your time being spent in ways that reflect His purpose for your life?
Do my financial investments reflect the values of His kingdom?
Am I using my skills & abilities to honour God and to be His witness?

3. Accountability in our Stewardship

Since God has entrusted us to be His stewards of all that He’s given us, we can expect to, likewise, be held accountable. Paul reminds us of this fact in Romans:

So, then each of us will give an account of himself to God.

Romans 14:12

As we endeavour to uphold His Kingdom values, we can rest assured that He will be pleased with the outcomes even if they don’t meet up with our expectations.

Our ability to manage the resources He’s given us is often reflected in our generosity and our ability to let go of what’s been entrusted to us for the benefit of others. As Luke said,

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,

shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap.

For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

Luke 6:38

As we’re accountable to Him, we demonstrate our ability to manage and be responsible for even more resources. So, make sure you are regularly reviewing the stewardship of your resources.

When and how often do you take account of your

stewardship of His resources that we’ve been given?

Everything that we have available to us on this earth is really a stewardship from God. He calls on us to make wise decisions that are acceptable with His Kingdom values. For God is keeping each one of us accountable for all that He’s entrusted to us.

Paul’s words to the Colossians are a wonderful way to sum up this whole matter:

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,

as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

Colossians 3:23

Can We Make It Happen Together?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 02:10:45 GMT

Three Important Factors in Healthy Alliances

Throughout Scripture, we find evidence of both healthy and unhealthy alliances that leaders made. Let’s take a few moments to consider three important factors in developing healthy alliances.

1. Forming Alliances

An alliance is formed when one or more parties come together for their mutual benefits. Therefore, the benefit is the focus of the alliance or relationship.

Manpower alliance: David attracted others to fight who believed in his cause
Power alliance: He chose the King of Moab who was well positioned to help
Spiritual alliance: David aligned with the prophet Gad to gain God’s direction

Don’t learn the hard way like Judah’s worthless treaty with Egypt in the Old Testament. Listening to God can help you avoid this:

“What sorrow awaits my rebellious children,” says the Lord.

“You make plans that are contrary to mine.

You make alliances not directed by my Spirit, thus piling up your sins.

Isaiah 30:1

Are your current alliances healthy or

do the they need to be treated like foes that have go?

2. Forging Alliances

A business leader must be careful with whom an alliance is not only formed but also forged. Building a strong alliance must be based on mutual trust and respect which can only be achieved over time.

However, be careful as Solomon reminds us when talking about friends or alliances:

“There are “friends” who destroy each other,

but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.”

Proverbs 18:24

What questions do you need to ask to ensure

that your alliances are healthy & beneficial?

3. Fruitful Alliances

The most fruitful alliances reflect the following spirit of Paul’s words:

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble,

thinking of others as better than yourselves.

Don’t look out only for your own interests,

but take an interest in others, too.

Philippians 2:3-4

While in the middle of serving others, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover that your needs are not ignored but instead met as a by-product of a healthy alliance.

How do you look out for the interest

of others in your current alliances?

Of the distresses of your day?

Let’s remember Solomon’s words,

”Walk with the wise and become wise;
associate with fools and get in trouble.”

Proverbs 13:20

Teams Make The Difference

Sat, 30 Sep 2023 08:45:00 GMT

Three Important Factors in Team Building

1. Team Selection

Selecting the right team members can be difficult. That’s why Christ’s example is so powerful, as He devoted Himself to prayer before deciding on his team.

One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside

to pray and spent the night praying to God.

When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose

twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.”

Luke 6:12-13

His choices were indeed “odd,” for, besides mostly fishermen, he also chose Matthew, a hated tax collector and Simon the Zealot, who was politically an opposite to Matthew.

How prayerful and strategic are you

when selecting new team members?

2. Team Synergy

It’s one thing to select the members for a team carefully but quite another to have them learn to work effectively together. You want the team's combined efforts to be 1+1= 3, 4 or 5, not just 2!

Such a diversified team may be tougher to lead, but training lions is more exciting than feeding goldfish!

In what ways are you investing in your team(s)

development so synergistically they are

accomplishing more than they could individually?

3. Team Success

The team of Twelve that Christ built was very successful. The church they led exploded out of Jerusalem, around the world and across two thousand years of history.

Their success was driven by the belief in their purpose and the faith in their leader. Together, they learned to value and respect one another as they strove for a common goal.

Christ took the opportunity to affirm His team as He did with Peter:

Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’

Jesus replied, ‘Blessed are you . . . for this was not revealed

to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.

Matthew 16:13-20

How do you affirm your team members

who are effective in striving for the

purpose and goals set before them?

God Said It - Just Do It!

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 09:45:00 GMT

Three Lessons on Obedience To God

1. Obedience is about Choice

Jonah lost his perspective and thought he could ignore God and get away with it. He should have remembered what Jeremiah wrote,

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord.

“They are plans for good and not for disaster,

to give you a future and a hope.”

Jeremiah 29:11

Given the plans that God has for your life & business

how is God asking you to just trust Him?

2. Obedience is about Correction

To whom do you share your plans by faith

who also can help to keep you on course?

3. Obedience is about Consequences

If consequences are plaguing you, then it might be time for some reflection to see if there are ways in which you’re drifting from obedience to His plans for your life and business.

How often do you set aside time to reflect on the consequences

of your obedience or disobedience to Him?

I’ve Got to Get a Plan!

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 09:45:00 GMT

Three Important Requirements for Planning

1. Planning Requires Purpose

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper
you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according
to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity
with the purpose of his will.

Ephesians 1:11

Planning and setting goals help us see the vision and prepare us to fulfill it.

What is your vision and clear statement of purpose
as a company on which you can base your planning?

2. Planning Requires Priorities

The planning process naturally leads to establishing priorities and the order in which they must be done most efficiently and effectively. Often this involves staff with responsibilities that may need to be sequential in getting things done.
Interestingly, God modelled a clear set of priorities when creating our world and humankind.

Paul recognized the importance of priorities and the critical role that each person plays in fulfilling those priorities.

By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder,
and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care.
I Corinthians 3:10

Do you have clearly defined priorities that will
help prepare your company for future growth?

3. Planning Requires Partners

More than a dozen passages in Proverbs refer to the importance of having advisors, counsellors and hands-on staff engaged in planning.

Long-range planning for the future is a stretch since so much is unknown. However, you can define an ideal outcome for the future and plan toward that to the best of your ability. Remember to seek God’s wisdom and direction, which He promised us.

As time passes and immediate realities emerge, your planning process can be revisited and revised to keep you on course toward your desired outcome. Remember to keep your Purpose , Priorities and Partners as your primary planning resources.

Now What Am I To Do?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 17:57:13 GMT