MAY 9 – TEACH CONSTANTLY

 Engage with your people closely, preaching and teaching the word through every circumstance of life. When they don’t understand, correct them. When they don’t obey, warn them. Comfort them whenever they miss the mark as they grow, showing them great patience while continuing to teach (2 Timothy 4:2)

                   Do you identify and personally invest in the people whom God gives you to lead? Is that work a priority for you? If you wish for your business to grow, and especially if you would like to see it survive past your time as the leader, you must grow new leaders. Growing leaders takes significant personal engagement.

                   Paul is here telling Timothy, his young protégé, how to lead. Timothy is warned not to assume that those who hear will follow the Lord. Rather, Paul says he should become part of their lives. From this relationship, he can encourage his people daily to embrace the Hope in Christ, and the vision and values he has been given. As Timothy tells his story each day, his people can see his actions and know that he is being obedient to God’s calling.

                    Find your leaders, as God reveals them. They may not be who you think. Invest fully in their growth in Him. Teach constantly.

MAY 8 – SPREAD THE WORD

 Make these words I am giving you be a part of you – heart and head. Constantly teach them to your children, and talk and think about them every moment you are awake. Carry them around with you and post them everywhere – in the most prominent places. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)

                   Do your people know what is important to you? Have you told them what the Lord has said to you? Did you write those words down? Do you think of this vision, and speak of it – often?

                   Moses has reminded the people of Israel of all God had said to him. He gives clarity to the message, saying that God has given them this law so they will live long, prosperous lives in the new land they will inhabit. That dynamic has not changed. The Holy Spirit has given you a vision for the prosperity of your people. Write it down. Tell others about what He has said. Be sure that everyone hears and sees that you have heard, and that you are pursuing what God has asked you to do. Then, other people can hear and embrace that message. They can partner with you, understanding the work that is to be done together.

                Spread the word today. Tell your people about all that God has prepared for them.

MAY 7 – CONTINUE TO SEEK

 Have I been with you all this time, and yet you haven’t known me, Philip? (John 14:9)

                   Philip had been with Jesus almost since the beginning of His ministry. In this passage, thought to be near the end of that work, Jesus observed that he still didn’t know who Jesus was. Many people, even those who may appear to be closest to God, still do not know Jesus for all that He is. That kind of relationship is a knowledge that comes only from intimacy with God; time alone with Jesus, experience relying upon Him, and burdens shared with Him.

                   Do you really know Jesus? Your life, and the lives of other people depend upon on this knowledge. As you lead your people toward the Lord, there will be opposition. Friends, colleagues, business associates, employees, and others will challenge you to conform to more acceptable behavior – even to simply be reasonable. If you want to continue doing what the Holy Spirit leads you to do, you must have this intimate knowledge and trust in Jesus. You will not prevail against the powers and principalities which actively work against the Lord’s will.

                   Continue today to spend time with Jesus. Ask that He reveal more of Himself and His desires to you. Learn to know Jesus well.

MAY 6 – THE VISION

 Don’t trust in the powerful, brilliant people. Men’s projects and plans die when they do. You’ll be blessed if you trust and hope in the Lord God. He made the heavens and earth, and He will be faithful forever. (Psalm 146:3-6)

                  How do you make your plans? Do you consult all the leading experts for current market projections? Do you watch for what market leaders are doing? Or, do you ask God what He would have you to do? Market awareness is good. It is useful. Expert opinions are part of the information you can process. But, all of it should be taken to the Lord in prayer if you genuinely trust Him as your hope in all of life.

                   This passage reminds you that obedience is not only what God commands, but it also is very practical. Your self-developed plans will be no more ingenious than those of other men and women. They will be short-term successes at best, because only God sees the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). The Lord is not impressed by your projects, even when you design them to honor Him (Romans 9:23). What God wants is for you to wait until He speaks to you through His Holy Spirit, and tells you His plans.

                Don’t waste your time doing business the way the world does it. Seize the opportunity to trust God for the plans that will lead to His prosperity.

MAY 5 – THE SOURCE

 But thanks always be to God. He leads us to victory in the Christ, and raises through us a fragrance of incense that shows everyone His glory. (2 Corinthians 2:14)

                   What do your people believe in? What gives them confidence in your organization’s ultimate success even when times are hard? Is it your intellect, experience, track-record, wealth, or have you explained to them that the Lord is your source for all things?

                   Paul says, “in every triumph, be sure God gets the thanks, the praise, and the glory.” Some modern sports figures show how this looks after big wins. Occasionally, one will say, “First, I want to give thanks to Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior.” Could you do this in your organization? In your big wins, and even when struggling? Could you explain the basis of your vision and values statement in terms of God’s calling on your life and your desire to bring honor and glory to Him? If so, you will be raising the fragrance of praise that leads people to see God’s glory. For this reason, your story is very important. That story must be told if you will lead your people to Jesus.

                Direct your people to the Lord as their hope, and lead them to give praise to Him in all things.

MAY 4 – HARVESTING

 Look! Open your eyes and see the fields are white. The harvest is ready. (John 4:35)

                   When you walk into your business each morning, what do you see? People busily at work, accomplishing the tasks of the day may be one answer. But, what do you see as a believer, who has a responsibility to show other people the way to Jesus? Do you see a potential community of faith?

                   Just before this statement, Jesus reminded his disciples of their ability to see the everyday, work-related aspects of their environment. By simply looking at a field they could project harvest time. His plea was for them to open their eyes of faith and hope – to see the huge harvest of people waiting to hear the good news of God’s kingdom.

                   That call has not changed. He is still calling you to see the potential around you. He is calling you today, in your context, to see the community around you - that spends half their lives living and working together – as a future community of faith. He wants you to see each man and woman as a valuable person who needs your consideration. While the tasks they do are important, their eternal destiny is critical.

                   Open your eyes today. See the people around you who are ready to hear a message of hope.

MAY 3 – FARMING

 Listen, a farmer once planted his field. Some seed fell on a hard-packed path, and the birds ate it up. Some fell on rocks. It grew quickly, but died when the sun scorched because it had no root. Other seed fell into thorns and briars that choked the plant, and it didn’t bear fruit. (Mark 4:3-7)

                  Not every seed grows. Jesus later explains that, when you show others the way to Him, very few people will give their lives to Christ and fully embrace the life of following Him. You are not responsible for this outcome. That is the responsibility of each man and woman who hear God’s word, and who are given the opportunity to surrender themselves to Him and the hope that He offers. Your responsibility is to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit leading you, telling you how to plant your words and actions in His garden each day.

                   So, what are you to do? Love. You are to love every person God places in your way. However, this does not mean you are to agonize over their choices, nor does it mean you should self-design ways to reach them. Often, it will not be your job to do more than plant the first seed – which they may reject. You also can love them enough to pray God will continue to call others to the life He offers.

                Farming is hard work! Planting is a long-term venture. Make sure God is guiding your work.

MAY 2 – VALUABLE PEOPLE

 A second time Jesus asked, “Simon, son of Jonas, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord; you know I love you very much.” Jesus said, “Then care for and look after my sheep.”

               You value your people. They are very important; employees, customers, and vendors. But why? Why do they mean something to you? Is your primary, or only, measure of their value what they can contribute to the financial bottom line?

                Every person has tremendous value. Each one has been created by God. Jesus died for each man and woman, regardless of that person’s attitude, behavior, or character. And, if you love Jesus, He says to you, “then care for and look after” each of them. Regardless. Difficult business decisions often must be made, and they very often are in the best interests of the affected people – even when the short-term consequences are negative. But, even in those situations, where there must be a reprimand or an end to the business relationship, the charge is still to love and care for the person. That responsibility may extend past the time that your “business” relationship lasts. Sometimes it is your uncommon love that will lead to the transformation of their life.

                Everyone has great value. Recognize that in your life, and show it in your work today. Love God’s people.

APRIL 30 – TALKING GOSPEL

 For I am not embarrassed or humiliated to share the gospel. It is the power of God to bring hope and help, and to save everyone who believes from destruction; both the Jew and the Gentile. (Romans 1:16)

                When you talk to your people about your faith, what do they hear? Do you promote church meetings? Do you talk about principles and things people should not do? Or, do you tell them about Jesus, why He came, and what the Lord has done in your life to transform it?

                Paul knew that many of the educated, sophisticated elite of the world would see the gospel as a fairy tale. Many feel this way today. In fact, Jesus promised they would       (1 Corinthians 1:18). But, Paul knew. He had experienced the power of the gospel in his life. He knew it was real because it had changed him. So, he didn’t care if most of the people laughed or mocked him. The only concern was to be sure everyone had an opportunity to find their way to Jesus. He was willing to be regarded as a fool by the people he was working to help.

                Consider today how the Holy Spirit is leading you to share the gospel, and to talk about God’s work in your life, with all the people He sends to you.

APRIL 29 – COME ON IN

 Then the Master told his servant to, “Go out on the roads around you, and search everywhere. Find people and compel them to come and be my guests; to fill the house for the great celebration.” (Luke 14:23)

                Do your people understand that you want them, and all the others in your sphere of influence, to be a part of the community of faith God has called you to establish and lead? Have you asked them? Has your love for them compelled them enough to overcome their resistance? If not, what are you waiting for?

                Clearly, the Master has said He wants you to do this. He didn’t give you a lesson or a program to tell you how to do it, because He plans to be there with you as you encounter each person. The job is to go to them. To be there, and then ask the Lord for understanding, and for the words or actions that will show that loving them is your job description. The love of Jesus Christ, as shown to other people through you, is what will compel them to join the community and become a part the celebration in accomplishing God’s vision with you.

                Hear the Lord today. As you go down the roads you travel, search for those who need to come to the Lord’s big celebration.

APRIL 28 – SHOW YOUR LOVE

 My dear little children don’t let us simply say that we love but love in truth with our actions. Let us show them our love sincerely. (1 John 3:18)

               Do you love your people? All of them? Do you show them your love sincerely; earnestly, as John urges? Don’t answer too quickly. Take a moment. Read the preceding verses (3:16-17) for an example of what this passage is talking about.

               John reminds the readers of the way Jesus showed His love and establishes that total sacrifice is the standard for every believer. Then, he gives a striking, practical example. “Whoever has the means to help when he sees his brother in need, but doesn’t help him, how can he say that the Spirit of God and His love lives in him?” This is a very direct challenge. Especially to you who have substantial means. Your people should know you love them, because at every opportunity you must care for one of them, you do it. High standard? You bet – but not inconsistent with the rest of Scripture. Anyone can say they love. Most will give if it’s not too hard or too much. Jesus taught simply to give. It may be money – yes. But your means may be time or knowledge or influence. Or it may simply be genuinely caring when no one else does.  

                Decide today that you will show your love – God’s love - at every chance, and you will look for those opportunities.

APRIL 27 – EYE-TO-EYE

 Jesus said, “Who touched me?” When everyone denied touching Him, Peter said, “Master, there’s a huge crowd around you; all touching you.” (Luke 8:45)

                You can picture the crowd following Jesus; many desperate to get to Him. Jesus was on a mission to help a young girl who was dying. One woman, who had been tormented for years by disease, managed to reach through the crowd and touch the edge of His coat. As Jesus later explained, her faith caused her to be healed instantly. Notice that, even though Jesus was busy – with lots of people clamoring for His attention – He stopped and made sure to recognize what God was doing. And, He took time to love that individual whose life was being changed. He looked into her eyes.

                Will you do that? No matter what your mission for the day, nor how many people vie for your attention – will you stay conscious of what God is doing around you? Will you stop and relate to the people involved until His work in you, and in them, is completed?

                Stay alert each moment. Find the person God is calling you to help. Look into their eyes and stay with them until His work is done.

APRIL 26 – BRING HIM TO ME

 And many told (blind Bartimeus) to be quiet, but he yelled louder, “Son of David – have mercy on me! Jesus stopped and told them to bring Bartimeus to Him. So, they called him, “Be courageous and get up. Jesus is calling you.” (Mark 10:48-49)

             Jesus and his disciples were headed for Jerusalem; busy and serious on their way. Bartimeus, the blind man on the side of the road, could not be indulged thought the disciples. Jesus doesn’t have time for him right now. They tried to silence Bartimeus, so that he would not get in the way. But Jesus seized the moment He helped them re-think their job description. He told them to go and bring the sick (physically, mentally, spiritually) to Him so He could make them whole.

             Do you get too busy to see the sick person standing in front of you? Is your work too important to stop and bring them to Jesus? Every day brings opportunity to find the people who need Christ. Your work is not to fix them, nor necessarily to please them. It certainly is not to overlook them as a casualty of a busy day. Your work is to bring them to the Lord.

Look around you today. Somewhere, the Holy Spirit will show you your Bartimeus. Go to him or her and bring that sick person to Jesus.

APRIL 25 – WORK

 Shine your light on your work for your servants, so it will show your glory to the children. Let the beauty of the Lord rest upon us as you establish your work for our hands. Yes, our work. You establish our work. (Psalm 90:16-17)

                Do you love your work? Do you eagerly look forward to beginning each day? Why not? God formed you with purpose for the work He intended for you. Listen for His voice that is calling you to that work. If you do this, you will find work that you will love.

                Your best life’s work is to be a part of the mission of God in His world and to His people. So, this request to “shine your light on your work” asks the Lord to reveal your mission. This is the way to find your work. Only then, is it possible to have the Glory of God rest upon you as you do it. He will guide your hands and feet, and speak through you. This relationship with God is where you will find the easy burden and the light load that Jesus promised (Matthew 11:30). Your job is to lead, but if you are to lead well, the Lord must establish the daily details of your job description. Sometimes, He will do this in surprising and unconventional ways, and sometimes you won’t understand. But, you can be certain of God’s presence and provision if you obey.

                Let God establish your work, and enjoy Him each day as you bring Him glory in it!

APRIL 24 – WORSHIP

 God is Spirit. Those who worship Him must worship in their spirit – their very core being, and in the truth of who He is, and who He made and called us to be. (John 4:24)

                Can your people be led to worship – even before they come to know Jesus? Can they act their way toward the Lord and His truth?

                Jesus says that you must worship both in spirit and in truth. So, to engage in real worship that brings glory to God and joy to your life, you must have experienced the birth of God’s Spirit in you. Then, the truth of who Jesus is can be lived out in your words and actions as you are animated by the Holy Spirit who lives in you. Those whom you lead; over whom you have influence, can engage in those actions with you. As they do, experiencing the change they see happening and hearing your story of the Hope in Christ that motivates you, they will be encouraged. As time and your consistency proves your Hope is trustworthy and real, some of these people will begin to have hope as well; hope that can be the basis of their faith and trust in the Lord.

                Remember, worship is what makes the church, not the place where people meet. Lead your people to worship in Spirit and in Truth in every place you meet with them.

APRIL 23 – THE FAMILY

 Jesus asked, “Who is my family?” Then, He looked around the circle of followers who were seated before Him, and said, “Here is my family. The one who does the will of God is my family.” (Mark 3:33-35)

               Who is your work family? Who are the people closest to you; whom you trust, and to whom you give authority? As you clearly communicate the vision God has given you, and you share and define the values that are vital to that plan, this family will grow. Those whom Jesus sends to you will be added to the family. They may not be who you want. Some people whom you want to be a part may choose not to follow the way God has provided, and losing your close, working relationship with those people may become a cost of following the Lord’s vision.

               Jesus said these words while his mother and other family members stood outside the place where He was teaching. It is thought they probably wanted to warn Him of the dangers of His harsh words to the religious leaders. They likely feared for His safety – and theirs. Some of your people will decide not to do what they need to do. Some of them will leave; and some may choose to stay and oppose the work, even if their words say they agree. Jesus said, “Those who do the will of God.” He did not say, “Those who know this will, and can recite it.”

               Be alert. Watch to determine whose actions show they are your family. Rely upon the Holy Spirit guide your decisions.

APRIL 22 – I’LL BE THERE

Yes, He has taken upon Himself our illness. He has carried our pain and suffering. (Isaiah 53:4)

                What do you do when you see that your people are captured by the things of this world that would destroy their lives? Where are you when pain and suffering; mentally, physically, and spiritually, come into their lives?

                Isaiah relays God’s promise that Jesus will come. The man who will take on the cares of the world. He did come, and He was beaten, humiliated, and hung on a cross after a life of comforting and healing and bringing hope to people. By each of those acts He was taking on the sickness, pain, and suffering of other people. Jesus said, “If you want to follow me, forget about yourself. Take up your cross each day to follow me (Luke 9:23).” Jesus is saying you must understand that the life of a follower is a life of engaging with people who are in pain, and this life requires you to take on their suffering – as if it is your own. So, the response when your people are hurting is to view those problems as your own, and to find ways to face these obstacles with them. Sometimes, you may help remove them. Sometimes, you may simply be present. But, be there.

                Love your people enough to help them carry their problems, fears, pain, and suffering.

APRIL 21 – ABOUT STRANGERS

 When the shepherd has taken each one of his sheep from the fold, He walks in front of them. They follow Him because they know his voice. But, they will never follow a stranger. They will run from him because they do not recognize his voice. (John 10:4-5)

               Do you feel that you must try to please everyone, so you may be considered a good person? Do you go along with what another person asks - without asking God – just to keep the peace? Being nice and agreeable is not the standard for a person who will follow Jesus. Obeying - following Him, going where He says, and doing what He says to do is your standard.

Jesus warns that you will hear other voices every day, all around you. When those other voices – of the people who are not your shepherd - call you to something different from what the Lord has told you to do, you must refuse. Say no. One assumption of this counsel is that you must be listening for the voice of the Holy Spirit if you will know the right way to go. If you listen to the voices of the world constantly, they will begin to dull your ears to God’s voice. If you focus on His word, and His voice alone, your decisions will be clear when those other voices try to divert you.

Pursue the Lord’s will for you. Listen always for His voice so you will not be fooled by the voice of a stranger when he or she calls you away from God’s purposes.

APRIL 20 – JUST ONE

 I plead with you – by the name and with the desire and under the power of our Lord, Jesus Christ. You can’t become divided; tearing apart His message. You must agree, and become woven together; united in heart, mind, and spirit as one community. (1 Corinthians 1:10)

               Jesus clearly intended for those who followed Him to be united. In the few words recorded from His prayers the night before He was killed, Jesus fervently asked God for this unity (John 17:21). Paul understood that the church must be one, and spoke often with illustrations teaching how the people of God are to work together in peace and harmony. God told His leaders and prophets often to, “call the people together.” It was in this context of a united community that He performed mighty and powerful acts, provided for the needs of His people, and spoke His instruction to them.

                His intentions have not changed. God still wants His people to be a community united by their constant attention upon Him. He still is telling leaders to call their people to be together in His Spirit, focused on Jesus Christ, and loving each other and the people around them. When people are divided, the message is also torn apart.

                Lead your people to a common vision of bringing honor to the Lord together, as they love each other and the people around them.

APRIL 19 – SAME OLD STORY

 Noah did what God said to do. He did everything exactly as he was told to do it. (Genesis 6:22)

                Think of the great stories of the Bible. You may recall Noah’s story, or Moses and the Exodus. These, and other epics that tell of how God has worked in human history to change peoples’ lives, all share a common trait. Each story includes a man or a woman who had enough faith and courage to choose to trust the Lord and do what He told them to do.

                Can you imagine the people mocking and laughing at Noah each day as he worked on a ship that was longer than a football field, while he was explaining that a flood would come? Think of the conversations he must have had with his wife and sons as they questioned him. But, Noah continued – because he trusted God. God’s instruction very often does not make sense to the people who receive it. It almost never makes sense to the world around them. However, doing what the Lord says to do is how a follower must respond when God speaks. Obedience is the action of one who really trusts God.

                Chose to be obedient today. When God’s Holy Spirit speaks to you, do what He says to do. Let Him write a new story with your life.

APRIL 18 – DON’T STOP

 Pray without ever pausing or stopping. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

                Yesterday, did you pray? Did you really pray with all your heart and your energy? Did you take real time to thank God, to listen for His counsel, and to pray for the people He brought to your mind?

                Prayer is both the constant task and a great benefit of following Jesus. Certainly, Paul understood the demands of everyday life when He wrote this letter. Yet, he said “without ever stopping.” How is that possible? Ephesians 6:18 in part says, “Be alert; watching. Persevere in interceding for all of your people; God’s saints.” This envisions a life of looking for God in each interaction. Every object and each face you encounter, and every different act of your life is an occasion that calls for a conversation with the Lord. That’s why the Father gives you the Holy Spirit. “He will guide you into all truth (John 16:13).” All truth means He will give you understanding of every situation that is appropriate for what He wants you to do. The Spirit will also give you the wisdom to know your way forward.

                Pray today. Pray tomorrow. Pray without ever pausing or stopping. Pray in the shower, in the car, and while you’re being yelled at by a customer. Do all this so that Christ can speak, informing your work every day.

APRIL 17 – CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES

 Jesus was impressed by the Centurion’s words; so surprised that He observed, “Listen, I haven’t heard this kind of faith anywhere – not even in Israel!” (Luke 7:9)

                Do you recognize excellence? Bringing attention to exceptional moments is one of the great opportunities for you to influence your people. What the leader talks about, emphasizes, and measures is what his or her people will do.

                The Centurion recognized the power and authority of Jesus’ work. As evidence of this belief, he publicly spoke his affirmation of faith in Jesus. It was an unusual, unexpected show of character, and Jesus wanted His followers to take note and understand, “That is what faith looks like!” There are certain actions your people will take that will reflect the character you know is important to your organization. As the Holy Spirit gives you understanding to see these moments, your celebration will help everyone to move closer to the vision and the values that God has given you.

                Listen carefully and encourage excellence when you see and hear God’s truth lived out. Celebrate these good, good times!

APRIL 16 – PATIENCE

 Keep being serious about the Lord working out the details of your life, just as you did when I was with you. Remember, it is God who gives you courage to will that He do that work, and it is He who completes the work – all for His own pleasure. (Philippians 2:12-13)

                Good work – God’s work – takes time. Just as you observe in business, those who take a longer view in their planning usually develop a better plan. God’s plan spans eternity. He has chosen to establish times and seasons to do His work in people. He places you in His world for a unique time, and for a person or people He has selected, in each moment of your life.

                The courage Paul urges might look a lot like patience to the world. Essentially, he says, “Be patient as you wait for the Lord’s next step for you; so patient that you continue to want to wait for Him to act even when you are struggling and afraid.” Waiting for God to act is hard work – especially when circumstances are difficult. It is then that waiting is truly the work of faith. Real faith waits, eagerly looking to the Lord for your next step. Real faith obeys immediately, before considering the potential outcomes.

                Today is an opportunity the Lord has planned for you. Let Him work His will each moment.

APRIL 15 – FRUSTRATION

 We have been given the gift of going straight to Jesus with courage, knowing He will show mercy and have the answer that will help us in each moment of our lives. (Hebrews 4:16)

                Are you frustrated by the actions of a person you lead? Have your efforts to fix their problems fallen short? If so, you may be ready to accept some news. Your people are not puzzles for you to solve. Their problems are not opportunities for you to share your wisdom and experience. People are valued creations of God, and - He is their answer.

                The writer explains that Jesus understands you, knows your struggles, and that He alone has the plan for your success in life. Jesus is that same answer for the one who struggles, and for your actions as you become a part of that person’s answer. People who are struggling need Jesus. Every part of your relationship with other people should be guided by the Lord’s Holy Spirit. You may not understand the plan, and you may never even see the result of your investment. The work is simply to do what you are led to do.

                Frustration is a sign that you have designed a plan. One who follows Jesus will focus on completing the work he or she is given to do, and will trust that Jesus is the plan.

APRIL 14 – SUCCESS

 (When you are filled with God’s Spirit) there will be real worship; constant celebration of the Lord, God. Do it like this – sing all kinds of songs that make the melody in your heart rise to the Lord, giving thanks to God for all He gave us in Jesus Christ. And, give your lives to each other in love because of your great love of Christ. (Ephesians 5:19-21)

                What does success look like? Do you measure success by bigger, more, faster, better – less cost or more profit? Real success is where people who once were trapped in drudgery; dreading and fearing, excusing and avoiding – where those same people are filled with hope and wonder, ambition and optimism, peace and love for each other.

                Paul explains, the people who live in God’s Kingdom don’t need to get drunk to be excited and throw a party. Followers of Jesus, who allow Him to consume their thoughts and control their actions, will erupt in praise and gratitude, and show love for others because of the work they will see Him accomplish. God’s success causes people to recognize Him.

                Is this the success you’re leading toward? Is your metric, “How many lives are changing because of God’s work in them?” Are your people celebrating real success, or just numbers?

APRIL 13 – YOUR STORY

 It is only because God loved you, and because He makes it possible that you may escape a life of meaningless pursuits that will end in misery and death. His love is a gift! You did not earn it by following rules, nor doing good deeds. You unwrapped it by putting all your hope in Him; letting the Lord teach you how He will use this gift called grace for Him. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

                Your story matters! The people you influence will not care to hear about your vision, your values, or your God until they understand how God has changed your life. They may listen politely, but unless you give them evidence of God’s power – they will not hear your message over their televisions, their friends, and their own, personal ambitions. It will just be words.

                It is the message of the gospel – God’s transforming power changing the lives of men and women – that awakens peoples’ imagination (John 12:32). Telling your story, explaining what God did, and is doing, in your life focuses attention on Him. Sharing that you have learned He can be trusted brings them hope. Admitting you did nothing to earn God’s love; that He gave you your new life with real purpose, encourages others to listen for God’s call to them.

               Be generous. Tell your story. Lead your people toward their meeting with Jesus.

APRIL 12 – VALUE

 What seemed criminal may have been entirely because he should be yours eternally. Not a slave any more – a person, valued brother, and one who is now so special to me. He’ll be so much more valuable now as he lives in the Lord. (Philemon 15-16)

               Think of your subordinates, whether volunteer or paid. Think of the vendors and reps, and the customers. What is their value to you? Do you value their productivity, performance, usefulness, the profitability they bring? If so, understand this – that basis of valuation is the one used to value a slave.

                Paul appealed to Philemon, the owner of runaway slave, Onesimus in this personal letter. He called on Philemon to recognize the value Onesimus had as a man who was created and loved by God. There is no doubt Paul has spent time helping Onesimus understand Philemon’s value as a brother. How else could he return, trusting the Lord for his safety, and risking his freedom, and his life to help Philemon grow with him. Paul has explained to each of them that they, along with other men and women, are made in God’s image. That is the one source of their true value.

                 See your people in a new way. Recognize the image of God that they bear, and then begin to value them for their potential to live in Christ with you as brothers and sisters.

APRIL 11 – A REASONABLE GIFT

 So, I encourage – even plead with you, to do this one thing.  Do it because God has so extravagantly shown you His grace and mercy. Do it even though you will need His continued mercy to accomplish it. Present your body before the Lord constantly, as if it were a living sacrifice. Let Him do with it what He wills. That is the only acceptable gift that you can give to our Lord. (Romans 12:1)

               Paul sees his life as a daily, even moment-to-moment balance. He wants to obey God as the Lord purposely uses him in His work with other people. This envisions much more than simply following. He is calling for the reader to view every circumstance as an altar where he or she will wait with anticipation for God to animate them, while willing that He control every action. Paul’s reference to an acceptable sacrifice also challenges them to be consumed by God’s work in them, as He continues to bring them to purity and holiness. Sacrifices to God must be pure.

               If you follow Paul’s advice, there will be no work, no relationships, no places where God’s word will not be your answer. Nor will there be situations where you will take back the reins of control over your actions because they are secular or recreational pursuits. Can you make that commitment? Will you make that decision?

               Let your will today be that God will enable you to become the living sacrifice Paul describes.

APRIL 10 – CREATED FOR WORK

 We are the masterfully created work of the Lord; created in Christ Jesus to be prepared and used for good works. God ordained the way we would travel before we existed, thinking of us and preparing for us to walk that path. (Ephesians 2:10)

               You are a masterpiece created by God; fashioned to be a tool in His hand, and you possess a unique purpose. The Lord intends to use you, His own creation, to do more creating that only you were designed to finish. The leader God will use must understand this relationship, both to do his or her own work and to lead the other people.

                If you are a tool in God’s hand, you can be humble and submissive even though your work will evidence great skill and artistry. Your entire story will be one of finding those whom the Lord wants to unite in and through the work of Jesus. In this work, your focus will be on the fine details of another person’s needs; giving yourself completely for their benefit in love.

                This describes the attitude and the work of Jesus. You see that Peter and the other apostles lived in this understanding. Can you see yourself as God’s useful masterpiece today? Will you give yourself completely to the fine details of your people’s lives?

APRIL 9 – STRUGGLING TO CHANGE

 Then the man said, “Your name won’t be only Jacob now, but Israel; because you struggled with God and men and you held on for God’s blessing. (Genesis 32:28)

                Jacob was exceptionally clever. By his wits, his hard work, and his perseverance, he had gained many of the marks of success. But, his history was also marked by the way he had deceived and schemed to take from others – especially his brother, Esau. Then, on the night before finally facing Esau again, he faced not only that struggle, but also had reached the end of himself, where now he sought God.

                He endured a long, exhausting night of struggle, but Jacob held on. He emerged weakened, injured, and exhausted. And – he was changed. No longer just the sly, crafty man who was afraid of those he had deceived, Israel become his new name because he had wrestled with God. He endured the long night of struggle without giving up. Having met God face-to-face, he was now ready to return to the place where he would live out God’s plan for his life.

                Recognize today that this is the struggle each person must engage if they are to live in God’s plan. From that honest, transparent, face-to-face battle with God comes God’s transformation. With God’s transforming power comes a future. Have your struggle to change today.

APRIL 8 – KNOW YOUR PEOPLE

 But Jesus didn’t give full trust to them, because of their words, because He knew people. Nor did He need anyone else to tell Him about each one, because He knew them at a heart level; who they were at their core (John 2:24-25)

                How could Jesus know? Is it possible for you to really know your people? Or, is that out of your reach; something only God can do? Well, yes. Yes, this level of knowing other people is out of your reach, but also, yes – it is possible for you to really know your people this way.

               Jesus explained how this is possible. He said that even He could do nothing, except as the Father gave Him understanding (John 5:19, et al). This is because God knows people’s hearts. He knows their nature. He can tell you if they have truly changed (1 Samuel 16:7). So, the Father can be trusted to give you this understanding as you listen to and observe people at all levels of your organization. As you relate to God through His Spirit in you, He also will give you the actions and the words that will bring hope and belief to those same people He has called you to serve. You must engage with them directly, face-to-face, but as you do so - never lose sight of God’s face.

                Commit to the work of relating to your people, as you relate to the Lord. This will give you the understanding to lead your people well.

APRIL 7 – EXPECTATIONS

 If you walk in the path I have shown you, and value the commands I give you and do what I say, then… (Leviticus 26:3)

                God speaks clearly about the results He expects. The answer is always the same. He requires that you walk in the way He has prepared, you recognize the words He speaks to be Truth, and you spend your Life following Him; obeying what He asks. This is the Lord’s clear expectation for each man and woman He creates.

                In a very similar way, an effective leader will communicate his or her expectations in a clear, complete, and appropriate way to each, individual member of his or her community. There can be no accountability unless you provide each person with a definition of the role that individual will play and the responsibilities that come with the role. Have you done the hard work of asking God to help you see His individualized plans for your responsibility to lead each of your people? Have you modeled and taught them to give clear-cut expectations to those whom they influence? The job of a leader is to build other leaders who also learn how to follow God’s plan.

               Ask God today to give you clarity of thought and the voice to communicate His will to the people you lead.

APRIL 6 – REPETITION

 Store my words deep in your heart and soul. Make them part of every work of your hand and every thought. Teach them to your children, and tell everyone about them, whatever you’re doing, from sun up to bedtime. Post my word everywhere you look. (Deuteronomy 11:18-20)

                Repetition. The name of the book Deuteronomy means repeated law. Not surprisingly, Moses repeats the law in it – repetitively. In this passage, he urges different ways to not only repeat God’s word all the time, but to work His word into every part of life; home, work, sleeping, waking, working, and thinking. God knows you intimately. He created you. So, He knows how important repetition is to the formation of habits that mold your character. Understanding the importance of repetition will then help you in teaching His word to those you lead.

                The words that describe vision and mission for your people, and the words God gives to be their values and principles in the work they are to do together, must be taught and blessed. They should be present everywhere. These words also must be lived. They must become the default system for each process, challenge, and opportunity if you are to lead a group of people to become a real community.

                Repeat God’s word! Again, repeat God’s word!

APRIL 5 – ACTIONS OR WORDS

 I remember Lord. You have saved me from death, have brought me through sorrow, and have kept me from failures. All this, so that I may obey and live for you while I’m on this earth. I will keep on believing, and I will speak, even when I suffer greatly. (Psalm 116:8-10)

                As the Psalmist relates, God can be trusted. Citing this passage, Paul explains to the people in Corinth (1 Corinthians 4:13) that this foundational belief is at the root of action. You, and your people will act based upon what you believe is true.

 What you do, especially as you “suffer greatly,” facing challenges and dangers, will show your people what you really believe. And, other people act based upon what they believe. They know they will prosper most by pleasing the leader. So, they usually will instinctively adjust what they do to what you show them you believe. If your words conflict with your actions, people will be confused, uncertain, and often will even feel that you have lied to them.

In the end, do you have the humility to see times when you have acted in conflict with your core beliefs? Are you strong enough to acknowledge those failures? Do you love your people enough to correct the error? Act as if their lives depend upon it.

APRIL 4 – EVERYWHERE YOU GO

You will receive great power from the Holy Spirit when He comes to you and lives in you. Then, you will tell everyone I send you to all about me; each one, no matter where they are in the world. (Acts 1:8)

                How far is your reach? You may think of each group you see regularly. Maybe you’d count only those in the smaller circles of family, friends, and closest business associates. If you lead an organization, your extended reach is to the far corners of the world. Each person led or influenced by you has influence over others in their geographical location, business relationships, family, and other interests. Also, you may never personally know all the people who will be affected by your obedience when the Lord sends you to a person.

The implications of this reality are many. Each one tells you a little about God’s plans. His plans are bigger, more complex, further-reaching, longer-term, and they affect far more people than you can imagine. As you speak one specific word of God’s encouragement to a person or group, that word begins to travel to the far corners of your organization, and even to the ends of the world.

Begin today to take seriously each opportunity the Spirit presents for you to take Christ to the ends of the world. 

APRIL 3 – EVERYTHING YOU DO

I know what you do. You’ve got this great reputation for being alive with God’s Spirit, but your actions betray you. You are not doing the work God gave you to do. Wake up. Begin where you are, and carefully pursue the Lord’s plan. (Revelation 3:1-2)

               There is nothing that causes faith or hope to be shattered more quickly than for a leader who is trusted to act in a way that is inconsistent with his or her reputation for good character. The Spirit tells the church at Sardis that He sees beyond the reputations they no doubt earned with their prior deeds. He tells this church that today’s reality is that they have lost their way.

               There is great danger in success. Especially when people begin to tell you how good you are. You may become tempted to believe them. If you rest upon your victories and faithfulness of yesterday, and begin to feel that you no longer need God’s leadership each moment, you will mess up. It is only a matter of time. The only source of good is to obey the vision that comes from the Lord. Your people will quickly lose their way, if you begin to take on God’s role in planning the way forward. As a leader, everyone is watching you. Some are hoping you will fail. Some are depending on you to be faithful and to hold them accountable. But, all of them are watching anxiously.

               Be sure to lead them toward the future that God has prepared, so that each of them has a chance to succeed.

APRIL 2 – FOLLOWERS ARE PEOPLE TOO

 … You are favored by God because I (Jesus) was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink, alone and you asked me to join you… (Matthew 25:34-35)

                Jesus is saying, “You looked at the people around you who were overlooked by everyone else. Those who could not possibly help you are the ones you were attentive to, and you searched for what they needed. Then, you gave it to them. You valued all these people; my people. You did it the way that I told you to do it, and the Father loves you for doing this.”

                The purest expression of love is the act of giving a gift to one who cannot repay you. All around you, every day, you will see people, and each of those people have needs. Often the poorest of our society have no place to stand, and very often the rich have found isolation and loneliness to be the price of their wealth. Many people live in self-made prisons, or they have been captured by disease – either physical or mental. Jesus loves each one of these people. He knows each person by name, and he values each one of them as special creations of His Father, God. Do you?

                Stop. Look around you today. Ask God who needs your gift of love.

 

APRIL 1 – LEAD THROUGH AFFIRMATION

 And the Lord, God said to Moses, “I will do exactly what you have asked of me because you are special to me. You have found grace and favor in my sight. You have made a name for yourself with me. (Exodus 33:17)

               This word God spoke to Moses was His response to Moses’ clear recognition that he could not lead, his people could not achieve God’s future for them, and the world would not come to know God by their work – unless they followed God’s plan each step of their way. In that response to Moses, the Lord directly affirmed the humility, the love, and the desire for unity that had come to dominate Moses’ character. These characteristics are what God values, and so they are what God affirmed.

                God still values uncommon character. Through your words, He will give affirmation to those you lead as they live up to the values you have defined and taught to them. This recognition will emphasize the importance of those values as standards for your group, and it will give hope to your people as they move forward toward the vision God has given you to pursue together.

                Watch for, listen to hear, and then recognize those who live toward the vision with character. Give God’s word of affirmation to them.

MARCH 31 – TIME TOGETHER BUILDS TRUST

 Continually, every day, all day long encourage each other, so that not one of you become hardened by sin’s lies. (Hebrews 3:13)

                Your presence speaks loudly. Are there corners of your organization you do not know? No matter how large your group, or how widely they are separated by distance, culture, and other barriers, you must know them. If you are to lead them well, they must also know you.

                  This passage speaks of a relationship in which you are fully present, attentive, and prayerful for God’s words of encouragement. Especially if your time together is brief, or infrequent, you must watch and listen carefully and actively, resisting the temptation to defend, accuse, or even express opinions.  When you watch and listen in this way, the Holy Spirit will give understanding of the emotion and fears that you observe. At times, the act of simply affirming that you understand what they tell you will bring hope and encouragement to them. Listening to people is a powerful way to earn their trust.

              You are limited only by God’s creative Spirit, who will lead you to the answer for your people. Ask Him today how you can best come to know, to spend time with, and to encourage your people. Your group’s prosperity will be based on the trust that will come.

MARCH 30 – ENGAGE PEOPLE TRANSPARENTLY

 The word of God has life! It is powerfully effective, like the most dominant weapon. God’s word disarms men and women at their deepest core, and speaks knowing every thought and attitude of the human heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

                God gives you a vision for the people whom He calls you to lead. This vision is a future He has prepared for you, and for those people to live into. If you will lead them effectively, you must openly, transparently give them His word as He leads you to do that. John Wesley once said, “Light yourself on fire with passion, and people will come from miles to watch you burn.” Does your life “burn” with passion for giving God’s word to others?

                Give your people God’s plan - His words and His vision for your life - as your deepest, most heart-felt desire. This word from God will resonate within those whom He is calling to respond in faith and join with you. You will see them change as they find their place in the work of the vision. Your openness will invite them to speak clearly and courageously with others. There is no other touch like this! The Word of God can convict, challenge, heal, and calm all at once.

                Have the courage to speak God’s transforming word – clearly, openly; transparently – today.