Jeremy Lin is sensational. But you don’t need me to tell you that.

Everything you hear about this guy makes you say “Wow!” But why does he really speak to us? Why does he speak to me? I guess it’s because we’re all underdogs. We’re all pushing against something that seems immovable. We all wonder at times: “what’s the point?” We all pushing towards our dream and yet have to “wake up” to reality everyday.

It hurts.

It’s painful.

And then out of the blue we hear about this kid who was underdog. Who was the last on the bench, overlooked, and underutilized. Who went through the same pain we do. Dealt we the same obscurity we do. And everyday had to “wake up” to the same reality we do. And yet he made it. So wait a minute…if he can make it… then dagnabbit why the heck can’t I??!! Maybe that’s why he speaks to me…to us?

There are some powerful lessons from this guy, namely:

 1. True Leaders Have Vision

It’s the main thing that separates leaders from managers. Leaders have the ability to see the whole terrain and make changes accordingly; while managers operate from the agenda leaders set. Or another way of saying it: leaders see A to Z while managers see A…to B…to C…to D and etc. Both need the other to be at their best–leaders need managers as much as managers need leaders.

Lin is credited for his amazing court vision by most analysts. He sees things that other don’t see and therefore does things that others don’t do.

The Bible is very clear,

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” (Prov. 29:18 KJV)

2. True Leaders Make the Team Better

I didn’t know Tyson Chandler was this good. Did you? What about Steve Novak? What about the bench warmers? None of us did. There’s no way they should’ve played this good…especially without Melo, Stroudemire, or Davis. But they did.

All because a true leader is now in front.

He gives a 100%, is selfless, and the team simply feeds off that. True leaders find ways to make the team better. In fact, the truest Leader gave everything He had to make His team the best:

“Christ’s love makes the church whole. His words evoke her beauty. Everything He does and says is designed to bring the best out of her, dressing her in dazzling white silk, radiant with holiness.” (Eph. 5 :26-27 MSG)

3. True Leaders are Broken

Like muscles fibers that are abused to become better–true strength comes out of brokenness. Lin knows what it is to be broken.

In an interview with ESPN, he spoke about the tough times before his break:

“There were night last year where I was reduced to tears. I couldn’t take it anymore.”

For years he struggled on that road of brokenness. Even though he went to Harvard, Ivy League schools aren’t allowed to grant athletic scholarships. So that means he paid for his ticket out of his own pocket, and whatever financial aid he got. Then he went undrafted in the 2010 NBA Draft, was signed with the Golden State Warriors, only to ride the bench for the majority of the season. Then he got cut by the Warriors , got picked up by the Rockets, then got cut again after two weeks.

Painful.

But that pain produced power in Lin…a power that is not even his own. Paul told the church at Colosse,

“We pray that you’ll live well for the Master, making Him proud of you as you work hard in His orchard. As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do your work. We pray that you’ll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul-not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that He has for us.” (Col. 1:10-12 MSG)

Truth is: light afflictions only prepare the way for greater glory.

4. True Leaders Make Mistakes

He has highest turnover percentage in the league. But he also has the highest assists. What does that mean? It means, he’s willing to make many mistakes to get the win.

True leaders are not afraid to fail. They understand that mistakes are not bad.

But failure has produced some of the greatest leaders the world has ever seen:

• Michael Arlington had four business failures before he succeeded with TechCrunch
• R.H. Macy failed seven times before his NY store caught on
• Michael Jordan failed more than he succeeded: lost over 3000 games, missed over 9000 shots at goal, and 26 times he missed the winning shot
• Robert Kiyosaki failed in his first business and ended up broke and being hounded by creditors
• Henry Ford filed for bankruptcy with his first company–Detroit Automobile Company
• Lady GaGa had doors slammed in her face, DJ’s who didn’t want to play her records, music execs who thought she was nuts, and was signed to Def Jam Records but then was dropped after 3 months…before she sold more than 15 million albums, 51 million singles worldwide and became one of Forbes most powerful celebrities

Jesus said,

“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:17 NLT)

True leaders persist in spite of mistakes, delays, and temporary defeats.

5. True Leaders Stand Out

In a recent ESPN interview, Lin was asked what he said to himself before his breakout game against the Nets. His response:

“I said ‘I’m gonna go back and play this next game just as aggressive if not more aggressive.’ Last year I was trying not to make mistakes I was trying to fit in. This year I said ‘you know what I’m giving every thing I can to this year. And I’m going to make I sure I do it my way. If it doesn’t get me where I want to go I can live with that. But one thing I know: if I go down, I’m going down fighting.’”

There was an article about Lady GaGa in Fortune. In the article, it showed her resolve to stand out:

“In an interview last winter, Lady Gaga recalled her anguish at being ignored as she performed at a bar filled with drunken NYU students. No one paid the slightest attention to her until, fed up, she decided to strip down to her lingerie. ‘I started playing in my underwear at the piano and I remember everyone was all of a sudden like ‘Whoa!’ And I said, ‘Yeah, you’re looking at me now, huh?’”

According to Seth Godin, “remarkable” is a necessity today because people don’t pay top dollar for “ordinary.” It’s on this principle that made Apple one of the world’s most valued companies by market capitalization. It’s simple: Apple makes exceptional products that continually raise the bar making it hard for competitors to catch up.

But standing out is risky.

When Jobs wanted to create a store that would reach out to the masses he did it with a nervous board; as many saw it a risky cash drain. But he wanted to create “an experience” for the Apple user. And that “risk” has paid off in billions!

Lin’s risk has paid off for him and the city of NY.

The truth is: leaders aren’t supposed to fit in. They weren’t designed to fit it. Sometimes it’s hard to take because we all seek to be accepted…but you were not meant to fit it…you were meant to stand out. Jesus said,

 ”Let me tell you why you are here…You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand-shine! “ (Matthew 5: 13-16 MSG)

 6. True Leaders are Industrious

In only nine games as a starter in the NBA, Lin has hit more big shots and game winners than most do in their career. Why? By being fearless and being industrious.

The Bible says,

“Let the thief steal no more, but rather let him be industrious, making an honest living with his own hands, so that he may be able to give to those in need.” (Ephesians 4:28 AMP)

It’s industriousness that’s causing Lin to thrive and it’s what cause leaders to thrive. And there’s something about that industrious spirit that makes God smile. I mean someone who will kick, scratch, claw, and fight in the face of seemingly impossible circumstances. Don’t get me wrong: there are times when all we can do is look to Him for help. But then there are those other times He opens doors as we move forward: “Then the Lord told Moses, ‘Quit praying and get the people moving! Forward, march!’” (Exodus 14:15 TLB)

In fact, when Jesus spoke about the resourcefulness of a manager He said:

 ”Now here’s a surprise: ‘The master praised the crooked manager! And why? Because he knew how to look after himself. Streetwise people are smarter in this regard than law-abiding citizens. They are on constant alert, looking for angles, surviving by their wits. I want you to be smart in the same way-but for what is right-using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials, so you’ll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior.’” (Luke 16:8-9 MSG)

Leaders don’t wait for something to happen, they make it happen–they’re playmakers.

But what else makes Jeremy Lin a good leader? Are these good qualities a leader should have? What are your thoughts?

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Personally, I’m not happy about it. I feel embarrassed for them. And granted my marriage is not a battle tested, veteran marriage, that’s lasted for 30+ years…it’s lasted longer than 72 days.

We don’t know why it didn’t last but there are lessons to be learned…especially…for the startup entrepreneur.

Marriage in the beginning is great. You’re googly-eyed, you’re in the honeymoon stage, you’re opening gifts (if you didn’t elope like me), the woman is showing off her ring (unless you didn’t have much money like me), and she’s basking in the reality that she’s someone’s wife.

It’s like running any new venture: you’re passionate, you’re gonna change the world, you get a little traction, and in the beginning everything seems awesome.

Then…the inevitable happens: it’s get hard.

It gets boring.

Some days you don’t “feel it.”

You run out of money.

You get tempted to “try something else”…or in the case of marriage…try someone else.

It gets frustrating.

We can look at the Kardashian divorce and say marriage is overrated, doomed to failure, most couples won’t make it, and etc.

Or we could look at a recent couple that was married for 72 years and died one hour apart.

We can look at the staggering statistics of startups that don’t make it, that go bankrupt, that fail…never to return. And say it doesn’t make sense to start a business, go after our dreams, and create our own opportunity. Or we can look at the Foursquare’s,  the Facebook’s, the Groupons…dare I say it…the Apples, the Googles, theMicrosofts, and say “If they can do it…”

So what’s separates the “we almost did” from the “we did it.” One word: persistence.

The refusal to quit NO MATTER WHAT!! The getting up when everything in you wants to stay down. The relentless and foolish drive to keep pushing.

Jesus said it best,

“Keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7 NLT)

So I guess the choice is ours: We can divorce (and give up) after 72 days like the Kim and her husband…or we can push and keep pushing…like the elderly couple and go on for 72 years.

72 days…or 72 years?

What do you think?

Images by Just Jared and i5prof

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I used to work under a charismatic leader. He was smart, handsome, always smiled, a “visionary”, and knew ways to connect with people. He spearheaded new initiatives, new programs, and new projects (which he was head of).  The problem is when he left all the initiatives, programs, projects, AND people were gone as well–everything he created vanished! It was like he was never there.

Granted, he had leadership problems to contend with–the person over him wasn’t  focused on growth. And since an organization will only go as far as its leader will take it, he couldn’t go as far as he wanted to. After a while he got tired of banging his head against a “bronze” ceiling and left.

The problem with most charismatic leaders  is that WHATEVER they create leaves with them. According to Jim Collins they’re “time-tellers”:

“Having a great idea or being a charismatic visionary leader is ‘time telling’; building a company [or ministry] that can prosper far beyond the presence of any single leader and through multiple product life cycles is ‘clock building.’” Built to Last: Success Habits of Visionary Companies,  page 23

This is in stark contrast to being a leader of purpose.

Charismatic leaders tell the time; leaders of purpose build clocks.

Good Leadership Works Itself Out of a Job

Nothing’s wrong with charisma. But “larger than life” leaders are over-emphasized. A true leader is someone who can build or rebuild something that can outlast them. The differences between a  charismatic leader and a leader of purpose are as follows:

CL: Are the “heart” of an organization.

LOP: Build the heart for an organization.

CL: Recruit followers.

LOP: Recruit and raise up leaders.

CL: Secure power for themselves.

LOP: Give power away to other competent leaders.

CL: When they leave, move, or die the organization falters.

LOP: When they leave move or die the organization prospers.

Look at Saul and David. David spent the remainder of his life preparing his successor, while Saul didn’t. So when David died Israel prospered without him. Unlike Saul, when he died his dynasty lagged “and the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker.” ( 2 Samuel 3:1 NKJV)

Your job as a leader is to build something that lives beyond you. All the success in the world means nothing if it crumbles after you leave!!

But what do you think? Would love to hear  your thoughts and opinions….

Image by Beyond Words

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Blockbuster was just acquired by Dish Network for $320 million–that’s quite a discount since it was  worth $5 billion a few years ago. And News Corp is looking to unload MySpace–the darling they bought for $580 million in 2005.

What a sobering reality–up today, gone tomorrow; the best today, a laughing stock tomorrow. This is a lesson any humble heart can glean nuggets from…yes even church leaders.

Oh yeah… ministries do become irrelevant, close down, lose  market share, and–wait for it–are “bought out” or “merged.”

So what can we learn?

1. Stay Away From Pride

“First pride, then the crash-the bigger the ego, the harder the fall.” (Proverbs 16:18 MSG)

In 2007, Rupert Murdoch brazenly predicted that MySpace would reach $1 billion in revenue by the next fiscal year. This not only stunned the world but also the executive team. It was outrageous, a boast that represented a blind attitude that this was the future of social networking.

Blockbuster CEO and Chairman, John Keyes, was also very brazen himself. He never seemed to take a look at what Blockbuster wasn’t doing right but what only Netflix was doing wrong. He was out of touch with reality: Blockbuster is the way of the future, Netflix will fall, we’re OK!

Rather than learn from Netflix, he chose to criticize them!

Yeah...those Netflix guys are real idiots!

Pride is the reason EVERY organization slips from greatness into mediocrity: “WE did this! We’re awesome! We’re unstoppable!”

Truth is: pride and God can’t reside in the place. It’s either one or the other.

2. Stay Away From a Complacent Culture

“He went on in this vein for a long time, urging them over and over, ‘Get out while you can; get out of this sick and stupid culture!’” (Acts 2:40 MSG)

MySpace was a very nimble place to work. But once they were brought by News Corp–the kids had to “grow up!” Unlike Facebook which was focused on product development and innovation MySpace had become too concerned with revenue and meeting traffic targets.  In fact, suggestions were made to the top executives at Fox Interactive that they sacrifice some of the page views so they could improve the site.

They refused.

Quarterly revenue targets were simply too important to lose advertising dollars while engineers “tinkered” with the site.

Greg Meyer, one of Blockbuster’s largest shareholders, gave some very great advice in an email to Fast Company some time ago: Blockbuster can leverage its advantages but only possible if the company can escape its “culture of complacency.”

Complacency? Isn’t that what stops most churches??

Jesus warned strongly about the traditions of men making the Word of God ineffective! But why?

Well…the original Greek word for “tradition” means a “handing over or selling out.” It also comes from a word that means “to bring into captivity.” So – tradition is a handing over of the commandments of God, resulting in the people being taken captive by man’s doctrines–resulting in a very weak church!

Or in this case: a very weak culture.

3. Play to Your Strengths

“Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, ‘It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables.’” (Acts 6:1-2 NKJV)

To be honest, this point doesn’t really apply to apply to MySpace OR Blockbuster…but to News Corp. News Corp had no business in buying MySpace.

It didn’t play to its strengths.

But they’ve learned from the blunder and their focus is now on harnessing digital distribution platforms and infusing digital capabilities throughout its existing businesses rather than looking to buy the next Facebook or MySpace.

Churches that know who they are and who they’re NOT…have a HUGE advantage over those trying to be everything at the same time.

4. Pay Attention to the Customer

“Now when all Israel saw that the king did not listen to them, the people answered the king, saying: ‘What share have we in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel! Now, see to your own house, O David!’” (1 Kings 12:16 NKJV)

The truth of the matter is Blockbuster with its late fees, poor customer service, and unwillingness to change lost sight of who was really important: the customer. Same thing with MySpace under News Corp.

In this day and age its not uncommon to see great churches constantly reassess themselves–asking themselves: “How are we treating people?”

Sometime ago the Wall Street Journal cited the rise in the use of mystery worshippers (people who come in anonymously and critique everything about the church). Many pastors see the need in gauging how their ministries are affecting the outside community—or the “un-churched.”

For example,  Pete Wilson, pastor of Cross Point Church who regularly uses mystery worshippers said:

“My competition is Cracker Barrel restaurant down the street, if they go in there and are treated more like family than when they come to CrossPoint Church, then it’s lights out for me.”

Don’t make the mistake of Blockbuster and MySpace…remember its about the people.

5. Change is Coming…Prepare for It

“About the time everybody’s walking around complacently, congratulating each other-’We’ve sure got it made! Now we can take it easy!’-suddenly everything will fall apart. It’s going to come as suddenly and inescapably as birth pangs to a pregnant woman.” (1 Thessalonians 5:3 MSG)

This kinda goes without saying, doesn’t it??

But what do you think? What else can we learn from MySpace? From Blockbuster? Is there anything I missed?

Your thoughts…

Images by Fast Company and The Consumerist

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Something to think about

“I believe that one of the next great moves of God is going to be through believers in the marketplace.”–Billy Graham

When Luke Burgis decided to start a company with all the profits going to charity people thought he was nuts! He couldn’t find investors, supporters, was just coming through bankruptcy, and “did not have a penny in the bank.” But he prayed, found clarity in the peace of God, persevered, and grew ActivPrayer into a healthy organization with “tons of committed members and partners.”

But Luke is not the only one who’s been “lead” down this road of entrepreneurship. And for now, it doesn’t seem like he’ll be the last.

So the question: is THIS the next move of God?

I don’t know.

But there are so many indicators that are pointing to a “yes” answer:

• The recent rise of Christ-preneurs
• Entrepreneurs starting businesses because God told them to
• The fact that Gen Y might be the most entrepreneurial generation EVER
• There’s a new reality of business: a reality where shared values, mission, and a greater purpose reign
• The fact that businesses are being use to fund ministry endeavors
• The rise of faith based mission trips: where Christ-preneurs are sent into impoverished areas to teach business skills to other entrepreneurs

The Bible says,

“A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability and goodness] to his children’s children, and the wealth of the sinner [finds its way eventually] into the hands of the righteous, for whom it was laid up.” (Proverbs 13:22 AMP)

Could we be seeing a “transfer” of some sorts?

I don’t have the answer, but I would love to hear your answers. What do you think? Is this a move of God? Or just a trend?

Your thoughts…

Image by Dominica News

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“They” have been on your case for a while now, haven’t “they”?

They’ve had a problem with you learning about prosperity Scriptures, Christ-centered billionaires, or the fact that Christ-preneurs are on the rise. So if they had a problem with that you KNOW they’ll have a problem with this.

But who cares.

Who are “they” anyway?! “They” really don’t matter when you think about it.

But no matter what…be thankful for “them.” They’re are a part of your success; in fact…be thankful for everything.

Scriptural Benefits of Gratitude

Truly great people (leaders, entrepreneurs, change agents, and etc) show gratitude freely and genuinely. And why not? The benefits are immense! Biblically speaking, gratitude promises:

1. Increase and Abundance

The Bible says,

“Let the peoples praise You [turn away from their idols] and give thanks to You, O God; let all the peoples praise and give thanks to You! The earth has yielded its harvest [in evidence of God’s approval].” (Psalms 67:5-6 AMP)

In other words, as we give thanks to Him He turn increases us.

That’s pretty cool!

When Jesus had 2 fishes and 5 loaves of bread and was ready to feed 5,000 men, not to mention women and children, He gave thanks and fed the multitude. It was not enough but when He gave thanks for it it became more than enough.

True wealth begins with a wealthy state of mind; and gratitude is one of the elements to cultivating that mind. Increase ALWAYS begins when you are grateful for what you already have!

2. Breakthrough and Deliverance

When Paul and Silas were beaten and jailed they could have been depressed, murmured, and complained. Instead, at midnight, they praised God (or gave Him thanks) and God sent an earthquake to free them.

Before Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead before He “lifted up His eyes and said, ‘Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.’” (John 11:41 KJV)

Being grateful causes God to move on your behalf in a mighty way!

3. Greater Closeness to Him

The Bible says,

“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.” (Psalms 100:4 KJV)

God can’t stand to be around murmuring, complaining, belly-aching people!

He can’t.

But those people who are continually grateful He can’t stand to do without.

Physical Benefits of Gratitude

Being a grateful person doesn’t always mean when everything is going well–quite the contrary– it means being grateful in rainy days, bad times, and through inconvenience.

It’s a lifestyle.

A lifestyle that has many physical benefits scientifically speaking.

Sometime ago two professors did a systematic study on the benefits of a grateful life, what they found was astonishing! The subjects who were consciously grateful:

• Felt better about their lives as a whole
• Were more optimistic
• Were more energetic
• Were more enthusiastic
• Were more determined
• Were more interested
• Were more joyful
• Felt stronger about handling challenges
• Exercised more (nearly an hour and a half more per week!).
• Had fewer illnesses
• Got more sleep
• Made progress toward important goals
• Were more likely to have helped someone else
• Were perceived by others as more generous and helpful
• Were less envious of those with more possessions
• Were less cluttered

Wow! And you’re not thankful because…?

Business Benefits

“Alright that’s good…but let’s get to the real stuff! How will gratitude help me professionally?”

Well…

• In one study by the Journal of Marketing (subscription only) it was found that customers of a jewelry store who were called and thanked showed a subsequent 70% increase in purchases. In comparison, customers who were thanked and told about a sale showed only a 30% increase in purchases, and customers who were not called at all showed no increase.
• In another, waitresses who simply wrote “thank you” on the check before handing it to customers received on average 11% more tips than those who didn’t.

“Well Mike that doesn’t sound like much?”

Oh. Well…I guess you don’t need your customers to make a %70 increase in purchases. What was I thinking??

But what do you think? What are some benefits of gratitude that I missed? What do you do to show appreciation.

Your thoughts…

Images by Optimal Functioning and Ultim.at

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American business hasn't been well received in the court of Public Opinion

It seems that the “faith-based” market is gaining more traction in the Hollywood. According to Businessweek, more actors are resurrecting their careers by going full Christian. Though many don’t expect another $600-plus million blockbuster in The Passion of the Christ, or even a $34-million Fireproof; nobody can deny the evidence: the faith based movie-market is ripe.

"Resurrection" of careers

Or better yet, the faith based market is ripe. And so are the entrepreneurs who see the opportunities.

According to the Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity, the rate of start-ups hit a 15-year high in 2010–a new phenomenon called “jobless entrepreneurship.” In fact, the U.S. Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) recently announced a partnership with the Christian Evangelistic Economic Development (CEED) to spur micro-enterprise and job creation in Pittsburgh.

It’s evident: there’s an exodus of believers headed to the Promised Land of entrepreneurship–and they’re not looking back!

But why? Well…

1. It’s no longer “business as usual”

Most people (and business leaders) are aware of the fact that we’ve entered a new reality: a reality where shared values, mission, and a greater purpose reign. But what could be a greater shared value than using business to promote the cause of Christ in the world?

2. Gen Y Could Be the Most Entrepreneurial Generation…ever!

It’s no secret: Gen Y are a VERY entrepreneurial bunch.

I mean obviously we’re different than previous generations:

• Most of us  see no future in a corporate career having seen the results of our parents being downsized (mine included)
• We’re more technologically astute than our parents (my mom JUST got on Facebook and doesn’t even have a pic)
• We have less to lose, more to gain
• We’re more connected than previous generations
• Some of us are even savvy enough to turn hobbies into enterprises

Gen Y wants more than the corner office, a pension, and a nice gold watch at retirement…they want to change the world!!

3. Business is a great vehicle for funding ministry

Rather than use paychecks to help fund ministry endeavors, many have decided to use profits. Many Christian billionaires learned to give when their businesses were very small; and all saw their giving as a ministry endeavor.

4. God told them to

When Bart Azzarelli launched his construction company he didn’t do it with a desire to get rich, or to be famous. He did it because God told him to.

When Bart Azzarelli launched his construction company he didn’t do it with a desire to get rich, or to be famous. He did it because God told him to. The same thing happened to Do Won and Jin Sook Chang. When they opened Forever 21 (now a $3 billion, 477-store, 35,000 employee chain) they did it because God told Mrs. Chang it would be successful.

These two examples of people who owe their business and life success to being sensitive to God’s Voice.

But what do you think? Are there any other reasons for the mass uprising of entrepreneurial believers? What do you think?

Images by The American and Bloomberg Businessweek

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What are You trying to say?

Listening to God is a FANTASTIC business strategy; I mean, think about it, He DOES  know the end from the beginning! But beyond business, as a believer, it is the right and essential thing to do. Paul said:

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:14 KJV)

One of the greatest assets of any leader is their ability to see forward. That’s why THEY’RE in the front. In fact, according to Stephen Covey, truly effective leaders spend their time in preparation, planning, and recognizing new opportunities. They’re always a  step ahead of every one else.

Dr. Covey has a time management matrix that he uses to illustrate the point:

Truly effective leaders spend the bulk of their time in Quadrant II. They focus on things that are important but not urgent at the moment. Or in other words, they focus on the opportunities of tomorrow before they become the problems of today.

The Bible says it like this:

“A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.” (Proverbs 27:12 NLT)

Hence the beauty of hearing from the Spirit of God! Or…the great Consultant!

The great Consultant

The origin of the word  “consultant” means “of persons going to oracles.” These “consultants” were people who had other worldly knowledge. So people would meet with them to glean their superior insight.

Similar to “prophets” who were once called “seers”…they had the ability to look into the future and see upcoming events.

Soooo….the Holy Spirit is the “great Consultant” because He has knowledge of future events and shares them with whoever He wants to.

Jesus said,

“When the Spirit of Truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own but will tell you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future.” (John 16:13 NLT)

He (the Spirit) will show you who to trust and not to trust; what to say and not to say; where to go and not to go. If you listen to Him, your Consultant will lead you into all truth:

“…He himself will be there to teach you…if you wander off the road to the right or the left, you will hear His voice behind you saying, ‘Here is the road. Follow it.’” (Isaiah 30: 20-21 GNT)

So how do you hear your Consultant more? It’s simple:

1. Become Friends With God

“The men rose up from there and faced toward Sodom, and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way. And the Lord said, ‘Shall I hide from Abraham [My friend and servant] what I am going to do?’” (Genesis 18:16-17 AMP)

There was a large difference between Moses and the children of Israel; the difference was that Moses was God’s friend. As a result, God spoke to him more than He did to them. In fact that Bible says,

“He made known His ways unto Moses, [but] His acts unto the children of Israel.” (Psalms 103:7 KJV)

To the children of Israel God showed what He was doing; but to Moses He showed why.

To become friends with God is simple (but not easy): listen to Him, obey Him (even when uncomfortable), be real with Him, trust and roll on Him (no matter what), and repeat the process!

2. Become Acquainted with Grief

“There’s more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we’re hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us,and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.” (Romans 3:3-4 MSG)

Quick note: this is something that God does for you…and not something you do to yourself.

God uses troubles, trials, and setbacks to keep “us alert for whatever” He will do next. These troubles make you more sensitive to the purposes of  God.

3. Stay Away from Lies and Sin

“But the [Holy] Spirit distinctly and expressly declares that in latter times some will turn away from the faith, giving attention to deluding and seducing spirits and doctrines that demons teach; Through the hypocrisy and pretensions of liars whose consciences are seared (cauterized).”

If I put a hot iron on your arm, what would happen?

Well…you would jump with pain and try to kill me! But, if I kept that iron there after a while you wouldn’t feel anything even if I stabbed that area with a knife.

Why? Because the nerves would be dead.

What prolonged sin and lies do is that, like that arm, they kill the conscience. They also make a person VERY insensitive to what the Spirit wants to do.

The best advice I got: live in purity and truth…always.

But what do you think? Are there any other ways to be more sensitive to what the Spirit is saying? Did I miss anything?

Would love to hear your thoughts…

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When Bart Azzarelli launched his construction company he didn’t do it with a desire to get rich, or to be famous. He did it because God told him to. The same thing happened to Do Won and Jin Sook Chang. When they opened Forever 21 (now a $3 billion, 477-store, 35,000 employee chain) they did it because God told Mrs. Chang it would be successful.

These are but two of the many examples of people who owe their business and life success to hearing God’s voice.

No you won’t read this much in business periodicals, but the truth is, hearing from God is a SOLID business strategy.

Why?

It’s simple: He knows the end result.

Peace of God = The Right Way to Go

The Bible says,

“…in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14 KJV)

It is smart to get as much counsel as possible. Sometimes, however, in our quest for counsel we forget to hear the voice of the Counselor (or the Spirit of God)….to our own detriment. But, even in seeking Him, sometimes He doesn’t answer with a “yes” or “no.” Which is vvvveeeerrrry frustrating!

So if He doesn’t answer “yes” or “no” how do we know what to do?

The answer is simple: peace. Or better yet, the peace of God.

Paul said,

“And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].” (Colossians 3:16 AMP)

In other words: let the peace of God act as an umpire.

So its simple: if you feel peace about the decision-go with it; if you don’t–leave it alone.

• Does the investment sound good on paper but you have no peace about it? Leave it alone!
• So you did your due diligence about the deal but you still have a nagging suspicion? Leave it alone!
• So they look good, sound great, and seem like a good fit but you’re still unsettled about them? Leave them alone!

I know what’s it like to lose money, lose time, and look like an idiot because I ignored the absence of peace. It sucks!

At the end of the day, do your research, get the facts, and get all the counsel you can. But the question is: “Do you feel at peace about this”?

If you don’t…leave it alone.

Do you rely on God’s peace to guide you? Do you have any stories? Any mistakes?

Your thoughts…

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What's your strategy

I’m not talking about SELLING to ministries. Although that’s not actually a bad idea since many small tech firms are doing just that. But that’s not what I’m talking about.

“So what do you mean by ‘partnering’?”

It’s simple.

“Partnering” with a ministry means to helps with the needs of that ministry. John said:

“For these [traveling missionaries] have gone out for the Name’s sake (for His sake) and are accepting nothing from the Gentiles (the heathen, the non-Israelites). So we ourselves ought to support such people [to welcome and provide for them], in order that we may be fellow workers in the Truth (the whole Gospel) and cooperate with its teachers.” (3 John 1:7-8 AMP)

In other words, as we provide for workers of the Truth we become fellow workers in that Truth; we become partners.

This “partnership” is the #1 reason God wants you to be successful. You’re not meant to be successful just so you can wear nice clothes, have a nice car, great house, be on Forbes, and let everyone know how blessed you are!

No.

You’re meant to be successful to be a partner in the work of the Gospel. Or better yet, you’re success is for the glory of God. The Bible says,

“The good man’s earnings advance the cause of righteousness. The evil man squanders his on sin.” (Proverbs 10:16 The Living Bible)

Contrary to what you think–it’s not about you.

“Ok Mike…I get that. ‘It’s not about me.’ So exactly how this an ‘effective strategy’?”

Hee hee (Mike rubs his hands with glee) I’m glad you asked!

The Philippians 4 Partnership Strategy

But before we do that…let me show you the partnership strategy many people overlook:

“And you Philippians yourselves well know that in the early days of the Gospel ministry, when I left Macedonia, no church (assembly) entered into partnership with me and opened up [a debit and credit] account in giving and receiving except you only.” (Philippians 4:15  AMP)

My interpretation: When we give to a ministry  we go into partnership with them by “giving blessings and by receiving them in return.” (vs. 15 CEV)

“For even in Thessalonica you sent [me contributions] for my needs, not only once but a second time. Not that I seek or am eager for [your] gift, but I do seek and am eager for the fruit which increases to your credit [the harvest of blessing that is accumulating to your account].” (Phillipians 4:16-17 AMP)

My interpretation: Paul says it’s not that he’s looking for the gift; in fact, he’s  learned how to live abased and live in plenty–totally sufficient in Christ sufficiency (Phil 4: 11-13). But…he wants THEM to “receive the blessings that come from giving.” (vs. 17 CEV)

“But I have [your full payment] and more; I have everything I need and am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent me. [They are the] fragrant odor of an offering and sacrifice which God welcomes and in which He delights.” (Philippians 4:18-19 AMP)

My interpretation: God LOVES cheerful givers!! I mean He absolutely loves “(takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, ‘prompt to do it’) giver [whose heart is in his giving].” (2 Corinthians 9:7 AMP) The offering–or partnership–of such a person brings Him nothing but joy!

“And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19 AMP)

My interpretation: We normally take this Scripture out of context. We say, “God shall supply all your needs…”  and so on. But in context it means something totally different. Paul is simply saying, “As you meet my needs (or the Gospel’s needs) God shall supply all your needs.”

So Why Exactly is it an Effective Strategy

“Alright Mike…that’s all well and good. But you still didn’t answer the question: ‘why is it an effective strategy’?”

Alright…alright…I’ll get to the good stuff. These are the reasons:

1. It Honors God–this one goes without saying. The thing that continues to blow my mind, was when I learned the main characteristic that all Christian billionaires shared was their desire to God in EVERYTHING they did. I mean, you don’t read about this much in Fortune, Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, and etc. But it is an effective business principle! In fact, CNN  recently did a profile about successful companies that incorporated Biblical principles (notwithstanding Whole Foods–whose CEO is Buddhist).

It’s not a secret anymore: God honors those companies that honor Him…and serves others.

2. We’re in the Philanthropic Age–although I care more about the eternal value than the temporal–it’s no secret thatgiving is part of the new business mindset. Most business leaders are aware of the fact that we’ve entered a new reality: a reality where shared values, mission, and a greater purpose reign. It’s no longer “business as usual.” This is evidenced by the surge in social entrepreneurs.

We no longer care about just making money…it’s about making money AND making a difference. Consider Baking for Good–the online baking company that gives 15% of its profits to a host of charities. Because of this philanthropic mission (and great cookies) they’ve garnered press in over 49 media outlets.

Making a profit and a difference is the new norm!

3. Consumers Identify With It–According to the Edelman 2009 Goodpurpose (TM) Consumer Study:

• 64% of consumers would recommend a brand that supports a good cause – up from 52% the previous year  globally.
• 59% would help a brand promote its products if there was a good cause behind it – up from 53% last year.
• 44% are aware of brands that actively support good causes through their products and services – up from 33% last year.

The tale of this post recession is consumers are buying from companies that choose to make a difference!

But what do you think? Is this “partnership” an effective strategy? Why? Why not?

Your thoughts…

Images from RaiseTheeUp, Estate Planner, and Noupe

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