The CLUE FROM LEU

My Name is Leu ... Karma or Christ?

2012-01-07T07:32:00.000-08:00

My name is Leu ...

Some Saturday mornings ... I watch about 2 or three episodes/re-runs of "My name is Earl" ... it’s a hilarious sitcom about a group of misfits who take life as it comes ... literally. The main character, "Earl", was a career criminal that comes to the realization that in order to fix his messed up life, he must undo all the bad things in his life and allow "Karma" to set his universe back in order. You've heard of Karma, right? (What goes around comes back around – non-technical definition). He carries a list of all his past dastardly deeds and one by one he crosses them off as he sets right the wrongs done by him and/or his crew.
Wouldn't life be so easy if we all could carry a list of our wrongs and correct them one by one? All of our calloused spoken words that caused others grief would be erased. All of our selfish actions that caused reactions to that selfishness would be magically done away with, etc. The only problem with that is there are far too many and I'm not sure if we could ever find the time to fix everything we've done wrong. However, I'm thankful that by Gods grace and Christ's sacrifice, we don't have to even try! Once you're covered by his blood, that's it! Done! Bam! Forgiven! I'm glad that Jesus took all of my past sins to the cross with him and "poof", they're gone! (2 Corinthians 5:17-21) I accepted him ... I thank him. Yes, I believe you should treat people right, and I do concur that you reap what you sow in life (Galatians 6:7, 8), but I’ll leave the covering of my sins to the one who can really do something with my list ... and it's got some length to it! Peace.

You have been CLUEd!

It's In the Bag!

2012-01-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

HAPPY 2012!

Well, here we are ... the start of a new year! Newness - What a feeling. Time to start ...or at least start over; or again. Seems like the same thing either way! Well, this time it can be better, bigger, brighter! The bag is empty, time to begin to fill it. Where to begin? Your 2011 bag may have been filled with grand dreams that didn't quite come to fruition, high expectations that fell short, and lofty goals that were unrealized. That's fine. Throw them in ... again. This time however; this year, how about "placing" in the "proverbial bag," A little Hope, A little Faith, and A little Love. A "little?" you say. Why not a lot?! Well, it only takes a little. When you consider that Hope is "A strong, confident, expectation", and faith is "the substance of things hoped for ...", and love is, well, love described is that which will never fail, and the "greatest of these ..." When you consider that, all you need to begin with is just a little. Decide now, right now what’s going into your bag this year. As much as you can, keep things like doubt, discouragement, depression out of the bag ... do what you must. Those things come in abundance and will consume your thoughts, goals, and intentions because of their weight … they’re heavy! Keep it simple ... add Hope, Faith, and love. These are expanding i.e. they grow, but they don’t get heavy. As a matter of fact, they give you strength … power … resolve … Endurance! See what a difference these "little" things make in your year ... your family, your leadership, your life! Peace. Happy New Year!

You have the CLUE!

Yeah, you messed up but

2011-09-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

2 Chronicles 19:1-3

19:1 When Jehoshaphat king of Judah returned safely to his palace in Jerusalem, 2 Jehu the seer, the son of Hanani, went out to meet him and said to the king, "Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, the wrath of the LORD is upon you. 3 There is, however, some good in you, for you have rid the land of the Asherah poles and have set your heart on seeking God."

Yeah, you messed up ... But there are good things about you! Jehoshaphat was a pretty good king, like his father, Asa. However even those of us who are "pretty good", sometimes Mess up ... Make bad judgments ... Don't get it right sometimes! (Are you listening?) Well, when you acquaint yourself with Jehoshaphat, you'll find that was indeed the case. I believe that when your heart is in the right place, even if there are moments of poor judgment, misplaced steps, and unchanneled energy, the purpose will match the plan in the end, in other words although you messed up, there's still good in you, and God can still use you to His glory! A critical factor in leadership is that as a leader you have to recognize the good and good intentions of people ... Your followers are followers for a reason: they have entrusted You to lead them because who you are (check out John Maxwell's 5 P's of leadership). It is a vital function of leadership to find and extract the good in others, even when they "mess up"! Someone has said "failure doesn't have to be final!" Many people in our organizations (church, business, Home) accomplish tasks and complete assignments that may fall below your standards, but that does not mean they (people, church members, children, etc) are sub-standard! The function of a leader among other things is that of a teacher. Teachers teach because they know what they are teaching is valuable, but they also know that some of life's most valuable lessons are gained when students try and fail, only to try again and succeed beyond measure! In Jehoshaphat’s case, he failed by joining forces with a wicked King, but God forgave him and he went on to truly demonstrate where his heart was, and in humility and bravery, cried out to the Lord and gave us perhaps the best example of how to deal with adversity ... "The battle is not yours, but God's" (2Chron. 20:15). Remember, God is The Best Leader ... Ever, and He saw beyond the faults and failures of Jehoshaphat and gave him another chance! Should we do any less?

You Have the CLUE!

Beauty out of the darkness!

2011-08-12T04:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it has to be dark in order to see the beauty!

The other night I became one of the few people to see a rare sight! I saw a Luna Moth. Now come on, when's the last time you saw a Luna Moth?! I've lived for almost 5 decades (depending on who you ask or when you're reading this) and I had never seen one - until that night! It seemed to want to come thru my front door window trying as moths do, to get to the light. At first it was terrifying (well, you know ... I'm really a tough guy - lol) because I thought it was a small bird or bat. But wait, birds don't fly at night, and bats try to avoid the light! I turned the porch light off to keep it and other bugs away, but it was too late – I was intrigued. What is that thing?! So I did what we all do when we don't know or understand something nowadays ... I googled it! Big green moth "click". There it was surprisingly beautiful: actias lunas. Wow! Thanks Wikipedia! The Luna Moth only comes out at night; its beauty is rarely seen; certain areas of the country, etc ... However, I also found out that it's been used for a number of years in popular culture from things like rock songs to sleeping pill commercials. Who knew? Not me! Well, I said "I" never saw one. Let's get a CLUE ...

We all have dark days ... Weeks, months, etc. We wonder and grapple with the "why" of these dark days and we know inside our hearts that we must have them from time to time. We just don't like them to be too frequent. However frequent or infrequent they may be, we do experience them: break-ups, financial setbacks, family drama, sickness, confusion, etc. The list goes on. But sometimes when it's dark on the outside and your light is shining on the inside, something beautiful will try to get in! It may appear as frightening at first because you've never seen it before. But when you stop and examine it you see its usefulness. I realized that even in the midst of the darkest night God has still designed and provided beauty! This beauty is of course, attracted to our light. Its purpose is to remind us that even when dark, our lights must still shine; and when they shine, beautiful things can still be seen no matter the darkness, difficulty, or dreariness. Open your heart, no matter how dark the night, God will give you something to see that may surprise and even terrify you at first, but know that it is His will to keep you out of the darkness if you keep the light inside shining bright … it attracts beauty!

You have the CLUE!

Kisser, Keeper, or just plain Desperate?

2011-07-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

Alright ... I'm gonna be honest and tell on myself ... On Sunday nights, after a long day in class and the pulpit, I veg out on the couch and watch "Mindless TV"! Usually the TV is watching me (LOL). However I have managed to watch a few early episodes of "Desparate Housewives" ... Yeah, I know, but you've got your show too, now dont't ya! I have noticed that each character has some charater flaws and traits that are worth mentioning.

Let's refresh the characters on the Show … First there is the fickle, people pleaser, and can’t seem to keep a man. Next the ever so controlling, insecure, perfectionist. Then there is the self centered, materialistic, prima-donna. Of course the domineering, corporate ladder climbing, frustrated business woman. (These folk sound like people you know?)

What they all share in common, besides Bridge and Tea parties, is that fact that each week they find themselves in “Desperate” situations where choices are made that have an adverse affect on their lives and the lives of those around them.

The fact that life creates some desperate situations is no surprise … the fact that these situations require solutions is also no surprise … what matters is what we do when we are faced with them ... Are you a Kisser or a Keeper?
Let's get a CLUE...

In the biblical book of Ruth we are introduced to three women who share something in common. A single thread weaves them together in the fact that with the loss of their husbands they are vulnerable, at risk, and susceptible to mistreatment in a male dominated society. Due to this fact, Naomi made a wise decision to return to her place of origin, the land of Judah. This decision became the origin of stress … it made an already stressful situation (the fact that they had lost their husbands) even more so. Now the two maidens were forced to consider leaving their current place of abode and return with Naomi to a place that meant nothing to them (it was Naomi’s home). They were faced with a life changing decision that once made would affect them for the rest of their lives. What can we learn from these women that will assist us in our Desperate situations? The book of Ruth sets up a classroom environment conducive to learning several lessons … among them are lessons in Leadership and Discipleship.

Let's start with a lesson in Leadership … Naomi was a Leader. A true leader has care and concern for others needs. She knew the plight before them so she directed her daughters to return to their homes. She assured them that God will surely deal kindly with them. She knew that God would grant them to find “rest” i.e. security. She gave candid and clear-cut information ... she kept it real … didn’t sugar coat it. She knew that sooner or later they would faint and wain due to thier "human-ness." She said, "Look I am old, I have no more sons, if I did you wouldn’t wait for them!" Our Lord Jesus was candid and clear. Think of the conversations he had with the following:

§ Woman at the well … you’ve had five husbands

§ Rich young man … sell what you have, give to the poor

§ To multitudes … if you love mother/father more than me …

§ To his disciples … they will persecute you

§ To disciples … the way to greatness is service

Like Jesus and his leaders of that day, Leaders today must be candid and clear! Say what you mean and mean it!

Let's take a lesson in Discipleship … Ruth would become a Learner (one who conforms his words, thoughts, and actions to that of his master/leader). One thing a disciple does is commit to new Leadership. She was heard to say" Wherever you go, I will go … lodge, I will lodge". This meant committing to a new lifestyle, new people, new concepts, etc. She willingly committed herself to Naomi's world. Christians are "called out of the world"! Our leader is Jesus ... we are his disciples committed HIs words, thoughts, and actions!

Now the other young lady, Orpah would eventually become a Loser . She Went back to ‘her’ people! Bad move ... there's nothing like God’s People ... Her people couldn’t save her ... Her people had no relationship with the true God. Today, people make the grave mistake of putting ‘their people’ before God i.e. relatives, spouses, children, friends, etc … Orpah put her people over God’s people, they had more influence over her than Naomi did, she was a “friend” of the world! She went back to ‘her’ gods. Today, people make the mistake and forsake God Almighty for false gods: False gods of: money, power, jobs, people worship. You always lose when you turn away from God! She had an opportunity but passed it up. She may have been a good person, but you always lose without God!

Let me conclude by saying that in every walk of life, there are at least two types of people … the "Kissers" like Orpah, and the "Keepers" like Ruth (1:14). It’s the kissers that more often find themselves in “Desperate” situations. The Keepers have committed themselves to the cause and will not let go! They “cleave”. The “Kissers”, are there for a while, but when the going gets rough and uncertain, they will “kiss” you goodbye in a Desperate minute! Which one are you?

You've been CLUEd!

Listen to your Father ...

2011-06-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

On an episode of the iconic “Sanford and son” (The Card Sharps, a 1972 episode), Lamont gets involved in a card game with three shady characters. Fred quickly recognizes that these dudes are about to take advantage of his grown, but somehow childish son! Now Fred, like Lucy of I Love Lucy, had a particular knack for getting into the most humorous and idiotic situations (sitcom), but many times, they were able to come out shining. This time the egg would be on Lamont’s face … if he didn’t heed the voice of his father. Fred tries with comedic acumen to keep Lamont from playing a losing hand … dealt with marked cards, but his antics fail. The hand is played, the other guys win, Lamont is broke i.e. a “Broke Dummy” according to Fred! He should have listened! Well, he didn’t. Now it was time for “Father knows best”! He sends Lamont out on an errand and turns the tables on those “Card Sharps”. You know the “G” in Fred G. Sanford stands for “Gambler” right?! Well, by the time he gets back, Lamont’s “friends” are speeding away with empty pockets and embarrassed feelings! The look on Lamont’s face says it all “Gee, I should have listened to pops!”

Let’s get a CLUE …

Proverbs 1:8a “Listen, my son, to your father's instruction” (NIV)

The book of Proverbs is written to instruct the young (man), the kings, and all leaders. Elements for these can be found throughout the book. The writer was not interested in the status quo but with the receiving of wisdom and in the getting of “understanding”. He knew that the acquiring the “principal thing” would go farther than any degree, fame, or fortune that one could amass in a life time.

The key verse in the book: Proverbs 4:7 “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (KJV)

In today’s world the father or father figure is an enigma to many, but rest assured that the father is alive and well among us! God’s word declares that the father is to be the central figure in the home, a leader of his family, and a staple in the community. He was to be listened to (Prov. 4:1), He was to correct (Prov. 3:12), He was not to be cursed (Prov. 20:20), and He was to be considered even when the son made friends (Prov. 28:7). We have traveled light years from that standard in some circles, but among God’s people, the father still strives!

You may not know or have an earthly father to share this coming Father’s Day with … perhaps he has been selected to go on ahead of you to enter the rest from his labors. Maybe you have an estranged relationship with him. That’s reality. However, an even greater reality is the relationship you can and hopefully do have with your Heavenly Father. That relationship never ends, not in this life or in the next. Every day with God is Father’s Day because every day he provides, protects, and is present … always.

What does the Heavenly Father want? He wants what all fathers want … to be listened to! To be taken seriously. To be honored and respected, not because He knows it all, because he’s your Father! Lamont should’ve listened to his father. He would’ve been much happier many of the times … but he often didn’t. We should listen to our heavenly Father. He cares for us. He prepares for us. He is there for us! Now, I don’t think our Father in heaven would ever call us a “Broke Dummy” … but when I think of all the times I didn’t listen to him, I sure felt like one! I’m thankful for my Heavenly Father’s grace, mercy, and longsuffering! Thank God for fathers. Thank God for … God!

You have the CLUE!

Wait a minute ... Say What?

2011-05-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

I recently picked up a little hymnal at church; you know the supplemental ones we “make” ourselves from other song books or borrow with credit from others?! Well, some of you know what I mean! LOL. As I casually flipped through the pages, a very old but familiar song caught my attention. Not so much the song, but a phrase from the song. The song was “It’s gonna rain”. I’ve heard sung by church choirs, on the radio, on TV, even preached in sermons. The phrase is “It’s gonna rain, it’s gonna rain, you’d better get ready and bear this in mind …” Wait a minute “bear this in mind”? Who put that in there!? That’s not right! It should be “better send mind”! Right?! I asked a few people, their response was yes “bear this in mind” (however I think they googled itJ). I asked a few more and they like myself said yeah … better ... send mind … (I could visualize the perplexed looks on their faces when they wrote it out). Sure enough though, those are the words “bear this in mind”. Hmmmm. I guess when you think of it, there are several words and phrases that are commonly mispronounced such as:

Acrossed instead of Across

Affidavid instead of Affidavit

Antartic instead of Antarctic

Bidness instead of Business

Blessing in the skies instead of Blessing in disguise

Card shark instead of Cardsharp

Doggy dog world instead of Dog-eat-dog world

And one of my favorites … Forte instead of Fort (look it up J)

So I asked myself, “how did it come to happen that after all these years of hearing and in some cases singing something, did I have it all wrong (or most of it anyway)? Let’s get a CLUE …

One thing that I’ve learned as a leader is that all too often, people will listen to and follow your instructions and directions, not so much because they are correct, but because they believe you to be correct. They believe that you have done your homework; put the necessary think time in; used the best resources at your disposal to come to the heavy conclusions you come to, etc. For the most part I agree that leaders should be given credit for their knowledge, expertise, and competence in their specialty. But it is also up to followers to really do what followers do … follow. I mean, follow the example of the leader. If he or she studies profusely, take the initiative to develop good study habits as well. If the leader is steeped in research and analysis, show your due diligence as well. The leader’s job is to “feed and lead” but it is the follower’s job to take in and digest it properly. Too often however, the followers knowledge base begins and ends with and only with, the dominate thought of the leader and very few times does he seek out for the meaning himself. Like with the song, he just listens, takes in, and assumes that is what it says even if it doesn’t make sense. Do you think “better send mind” makes sense … really? One person commented that they thought that it was something the old folks said that had some meaning that they were too young to understand. One thing that God has blessed each of us with is a mind with a billion or brain cells floating around in there. Let’s not be afraid to aks – ask - J some questions from time to time to see if what is said is really what is said. As leaders it is always our tasks to be clear, lucid, unambiguous, and explanatory. Make sure your people hear, read, and understand! And followers, before you repeat anything, sing anything, or teach anything, make sure you know what’s what.

You’ve been CLUEd

What’s below the surface!

2011-05-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

Ok, I don’t have a green thumb! I think it’s sorta brownish in color! LOL! Well, anyway, there’s a tree in my front yard that didn’t grow any leaves this season. Not unusual for this tree because for some reason it doesn’t always have leaves like the other trees around us. Finally my Dear One (that’s my wife) says “you know that tree is dead right!?” I thought, “how can it really be dead when it’s still standing, it just didn’t grow leaves this year, right?” So after closer examination I noticed that although the bark was still covering the tree, it was brittle and easily pulled away. I also notice several, what appeared to be “tracks”, just under the surface of the bark. It looked as if an artist had used precise tools to form an intricate design on the wood to create a piece of fine art. Oh but no! There is no artist here … how about wood-eating-disgusting-ugly bugs! Their MO appears to be to covertly enter the untreated tree, work methodically under the surface (uninterrupted), and (although the outer bark did show signs of sickness) sap all the life out of the tree from within! By the time you notice it (unless you got that green thumb thing goin on) it’s a little too late! The damage is done! The tree is all but ready to be pulled out of the ground and made into a bench! My analogy is not hard to comprehend, but let me be clear … the same thing can happen within our lives! Let’s get a CLUE!

Prov 4:23 says “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

An untreated heart is set on a path of destruction. When we allow sin and evil into our hearts and leave it unchecked, just like the tree, it will begin to do irreparable damage from within! On the surface you may look well and healthy, but under the surface is where the problem is! Tracks of hatred, envy, strife, jealousy, bitterness, and plan ole sin make their way throughout your whole body! And like the biblical disease Leprosy, by the time it shows up, it’s already been working under the surface of the skin for too long! (Leviticus 14) There are a few ways in which you the leader, parent, head of Christian organization, etc can “keep” your heart pure. After all, if you the leader work on your heart it will in most cases have positive effect on your followers, members, family, etc.

1. Watch what goes in. Ps 101:3-5 3 I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. I hate all crooked dealings; I will have nothing to do with them. 4 I will reject perverse ideas and stay away from every evil. 5 I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride. (NLT)

2. Monitor what comes out. Matt 15:19 But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. (KJV)

3. Welcome necessary changes. Ps 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (KJV)

So many of the “issues” of life that we struggle with can be traced to a lack of “keeping our hearts” with all diligence! Like my tree, our hearts must be treated with a continued dose of spiritual insecticide … and the best I’ve found is none other than God’s word, the Bible!

You’ve been CLUEd!

A Tribute to Mother!

2011-05-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

On Mother’s Day we recognize and celebrate the woman we call Mother. It is our privilege to do so. Let us be mindful of the fact that God Almighty, in His boundless wisdom has so declared that the one we call mother should be honored and held in the highest regard and esteem. Thus the bible says “Eph 6:2, 3
"Honor your father and mother"-which is the first commandment with a promise— 3 "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." (NIV)

God attached an incidental promise of life and wellness to the commandment to honor her. If we are wise we would listen and conform to the wisdom from above. For the mother is the backbone of the home; the mother is the foundation of the family; the mother is the crowned jewel of our lives. So we pause and in the name of Jesus we say “Thank you”. Thank you for all you have done, are doing, and will do.

Thank you for your undying love and never ending care. We thank you for standing up so that we could sit down … we thank you for holding your tongue so that we could speak our minds … we thank you for sleepless nights so that we could rest … we thank you for being our comfort when we were hurting … we thank you for being our peace in the midst of our confusion … we thank you for your sacrifice in the midst of our situations … Yes, mother, momma, nana, and ma … we thank you and love you with the Love of God! You protected us from the bully’s on the block … you held our hand as we traveled through the traffic … you picked us up when our pipe dreams exploded … you laid our heads across your lap when the death angel approached and took our loved ones. And like Superwoman, you exposed yourself to the kryptonite's of life in order to prevent any harm or danger from defeating us.

Yes, as God is our witness, we must honor her … we must love her … we must admire her … we must pay tribute to her.

And Father God, we thank you for your kind care and consideration for the feeble beings that we are, to not only send your only begotten Son, but to provide us with a bosom of blessedness … one who wipes our earthly tears and mends our earthly bruises … one whose acceptance is endless and whose commitment is continual ... We thank you for Mother!

You've been CLUEd!

Are you growing?

2011-04-21T14:07:00.000-07:00

Choices, life is about choices. We choose a certain path which leads to a destination - the one we hoped for if we're lucky. Many of us started on a path to the ever illusive “better life” just over four months ago at the beginning of the year. We pledged to: lose weight, go back to school, get a better job, leave that draining relationship, become better financial managers, “etc, etc, etc” (as Yul would say - you know that cool bald dude from The King and I). Here’s a question, “How many of you have accomplished or even started to work toward your goals?” I’ll got first … One of my goals was "personal growth." As a minister, I preach constantly on themes concerning spiritual and emotional growth. Even though I preach it, I have to continue to push myself toward my personal goals and excellence, and I often need to stop, look, listen, and learn as well. Note to leaders: Even though others may think you’ve got it all “knowed” up, we know better! There must always be that little voice inside of you that says “keep digging, keep stretching, keep climbing, and keep helping others to do the same. After all, God didn't just plant us where He did to vegetate! He wants, desires, and expects us to grow – all of us! Part of my personal growth "track" has been these blog articles. I have dedicated a portion of my week to express myself and challenge others ... to grow. I made a "choice" to pursue what is an important component of my journey. What of yours? How are you on your journey? Only you know.

Let’s get a CLUE...

A look at the picture above would lead you to believe that the taller plant was planted before the smaller one. That assumption would be wrong. They were both planted the same day ... the same time ... by the same person. (One of my sons’ science projects) The difference was light - yes LIGHT.

The taller plant was placed under a constant intense light/lamp during the day. The smaller plant was placed on a window seal on the side of the house where the sun only shines part of the day, and then shines only through the clouds in early spring. The planter of the seeds made a conscious decision or choice to grow them that way.

In life, the planter (God) planted you/us in a certain place for a certain reason, of which He and He alone knows. The one constant about is that it was He did the planting for his glory! We make a crucial mistake when we compare our personal growth with others. If you’re life (plant) is not as tall as mine or vice versa, that is not a cause for dissention, discouragement, and disappointment. After all, it’s personal. God may have planted you in an area where it takes a little extra diligence on your part to experience the growth you desire. You may be the smaller plant for the moment but know and believe that the growth is not only possible but on its way! You may have to work harder, sleep less, prepare better, or beg God to move you to the other side of the house that gets the constant light - hey it’s worth a shot! LOL

The point to remember is that each of us was planted with care by the best caregiver in the universe, and however we grow; it should be to His glory! He planted us with the intention of us growing. Some grow quicker with great intensity ... some a little slower with less fervor, but the result should be the same - growth. Do what you can do to place yourself on a growing track towards personal growth and excellence (this includes praying for a better situation) and leave the rest to God!

You've been CLUEd

Sometimes you want to get away!

2011-04-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just want to “Get a way … Leave today … yeah-yeah-yeah!” (EW&F reference –LOL). What about “burn-out”? Ever feel like just turning in the keys, not showing up, or just driving away! Yes, we have all been there … most of us anyway. The pressures of life, leadership, and “living” can get the best of any of us. There are times we feel like Elijah when he felt it necessary to get away …

1 Kings 19:3-4

3 And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beer-sheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there.

4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.

Elijah’s task as the faithful prophet of God ushered him into some precarious situations. First he was the bearer of bad news to the king (drought – 1 King 17:1). Then his brook dried up (1 Kings 17:17). Next he was personally blamed and called a “trouble-maker” (1 Kings 18:17). Finally he was threatened with bodily harm by the wicked Queen Jezebel! That would be enough for any of us to consider booking a flight on Southwest Airlines! Sometimes even when you have dotted all the required “I’s” and crossed the needed “Ts”, and double-checked your sources, the outcome of your obedience may cause you considerable stress on your mind, body, and spirit. The book of James reminds us that “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are …” (James 5:17) so don’t get it twisted thinking he was somehow a superior being. No, he got depressed, discouraged, and mentally depleted much like we do at times. Yet he was still a faithful prophet and servant of God! Can you relate?

When you lead your family, your church, or your organization, there WILL be times when you are the bearer of bad news; you will suffer personal loss; you will be blamed (for something’s that were not your fault – 1 Kings 18:18), and there may be times when you or your livelihood are threatened! However, don’t allow these things to burden your blessings, trip-up your triumphs, or disturb your duty! One of the things God had to remind Elijah was that God knew where he was and God knew where others like him were!

"God knows where you are ... He knows where others are just like you"

God knew Elijah was in a sad, depressed, and defeated state! He knew where he was! Don’t you think God knows where you are today!? He knows you may have tried and tried but are still misunderstood. He knows that you have devoted yourself to his way of living your life but your family or children don’t seem to get it. He knows that inside you’re crying for help and you could really use a breakthrough! Not only did God know where Elijah was physically, but mentally and spiritually! Never think that God doesn’t see you, because he does! He knows where you are! God also knows where others just like you are! God had to explain to him that there were many, many others (7,000) who had stayed true to their God and His principles! Elijah, you ain’t alone! Today, you may feel that you are the only parent taking a stand to guide your children in the right path. You may feel that you are the only leader who has not sold out your position for a paycheck. You may feel that you are the only Christian in your church! Listen, God has an e-mail (Elijah-mail) with your name on it and in the subject line it reads “Son/Daughter, you are not alone!” In that same e-mail is the same message God had for Elijah: I know where you are and what you’re feeling. Don’t give up! It also says, listen, you’re not all by yourself in this thing! Now get up, get yourself back on track and “Go”! Elijah was nearing the end of his service to God (God lead him to his successor, Elisha) but until you get that message from God, you’ve got to keep on going … dust the dirt off your shoulder and keep moving!

You’re CLUEd!

Angry Birds! Ugh! (How can this Bird can help you!)

2011-04-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Angry Birds! Ugh!

If you have played it, you know what I’m talking about! LOL … You can get stuck on one level for an hour or more if you’re not careful! There’s this one level – level thirteen that at this writing I have not been able to master. Those blasted pigs! (Check out the game – smile). In the game there are these birds, each with a different “power, skill, or talent” … the little red bird that cruises into the target at one speed only; a dominate yellow bird that flies double time when you tap the screen and with the extra power does more damage; the tiny blue bird that multiplies times three when you tap; a big bird that boomerangs around and attacks from the rear when you tap the screen; there are others … your task is to figure out what each bird does and when its turn arises, aim it at the right spot to break down the barriers (and get revenge! LOL). Some of it is by sheer chance, but a lot of it is skill and patience on your part.

When you consider the roll you play as a leader, father, mother, etc. it is paramount that you understand that Just as there are many different types of people within your organization, home, or church, there are many leadership types … some effective, some not so. Your task is to … yes you see now … figure it out! God has uniquely gifted each of your members, children, or workers in with the skills, talents, and aptitude to complete whatever job you need to get done. If you employ them wisely (and sometimes luck is involved) the likelihood of the task being completed is much greater which leads to a much healthier environment. In the game, if you continually aim for the same spot with birds of different powers, you may get minor results, but if you take your time and aim at different areas of the structure utilizing the strengths of the birds, it will yield greater results! In your leadership “game” (I know it’s not a game) you must be patient, instructive, and prayerful. You must be willing to accept the talents of your followers, help to improve them if necessary, and alter your leadership style if the need arises. It has been said that “If you’re a hammer, every problem looks like a nail!” Life, like the Angry Bird’s game can be unpredictable, but as a leader you have to be willing to engage and encounter the unpredictable elements with knowledge, wisdom, and the resolve to keep at it until it’s done! I’ll beat level thirteen, I’m sure of it, I may have to leave it alone for a minute and come back to it later, but I will win! It may turn out to be easier than I thought ... and when it is completed, there will be jubilation! So stay focused, have fun, and most of all remember that no matter how difficult the game, problem, or situation looks there is an answer or solution, you may need some help or advice, (that’s for another CLUE) but there is one! Don’t let em’ get the best of you! Angry Birds! Ugh!

You’re CLUEd!

Grace and Mercy!

2011-04-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

In rural Virginia, there are long winding roads that seemingly never end. Ones, where if you are lucky enough to get caught behind a lumber truck you just have to wait; and enjoy the scenery while going 25 miles per hour until you are able (and brave enough) to pass! Well, on one occasion while driving down a long Virginia rural road, I witnessed a sight; a sight that I’ve no doubt seen many times before but never took the time to really “see”. Sometimes God can open your eyes to a truth, a very simple truth that previously you have been going too fast to observe. Well, on this particular day while driving with my mind on nothing and nothing on my mind … in particular, I saw this sight: A turtle in the middle of the road. This sight, again, I’ve witnessed before but for some reason my mind began to ponder it. As I swerved so as not to hit the turtle (turtle soup is good I hearJ ) I began to consider one word - “Mercy” … Mercy. Then it hit me! I had mercy on that turtle! So what?! Well I began to think that in the same way I had mercy on that turtle, God has had mercy on me; and every one of us! When you consider that Mr. Turtle (although unbeknownst to him) really had no business being in the middle of the road … in the danger zone! So yes, I had mercy on him as God has on us! Then I began to consider another word – “Grace” … Grace. If that was mercy, what is grace? Why am I entertaining grace? Well, considering that the turtle was still in the middle of the road, (other cars were having mercy as well) … I came to a conclusion that grace then is me pulling over to the side of the road; getting out of my car; walking to the middle of the road; bending down; picking up the turtle; carrying it to the other side of the road where he was heading; and letting it go in safety! Grace! Let me explain. Mercy has been explained by many to mean to not get what we deserve. And grace means to have unmerited favor i.e. to give us what we don’t deserve! Think about it … how many times in your life have you been “caught out there” … jammed up in one of those “situations”! You needed some help … or you would be “done”! Then somehow you were rescued, helped, saved, freed, or exonerated! How did that happen? Someone … God had mercy and grace on you! One of the meanings of favour (grace) in the Old Testament Hebrew is to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to bestow.

(Ps 102:13) Thou shalt arise, and have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favour her, yea, the set time, is come.

Certainly it was God’s kindness (Mercy) and favor (Grace) that saved us from ourselves and helped us to get to a point of safety! As I drove away that day, all I could muster to say was Thank you God for your grace and mercy … on a turtle like me!

You’ve been CLUEd!

Stay Focused!

2011-04-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Stay focused! I was in New York City last week and the above photo was taken by my cool phone! J A closer look reveals that there are a number of things happening all at once. People moving, lights flashing, advertisements galore, etc. virtually every inch of occupied space is being utilized. In a place like that it’s hard to focus on one thing, when literally everything is shouting “Hey you look over here!” It’s hard to ignore anything and impossible to see everything. But yet I was able to navigate my way to my intended destination (the candy store! Lol) In order to navigate anywhere you must first know where you want to go! You must first formulate in your mind and then be willing to negotiate the terms that will allow you get there. In this case, I knew where I wanted to go and if I was going to be successful I had to be willing to go around, through, and even over whatever obstacles or distractions that placed themselves in my range of vision. In other words I had to first focus on one intended goal, look around and see how to get there, and then be brave enough to start out in that direction.

As leaders, there are often many obstacles and other attention-getting factors that place themselves in our range of vision. And while we try to address each factor before us, it becomes increasingly difficult without focus, to navigate around, through, and over them in order to arrive at the proper destination. Take for example a disgruntled, church member, family member, co-worker, etc. Often times you will be bombarded with their issue of the day or hour, and at the same time have other issues or even your own issues to deal and contend with! Here is where focus comes in to play. A leader (or anyone) who is unable to focus his/her attention on what is needful or where they are trying to go will also be found lacking. Jesus at a most critical time during his passion was heard to admonish his three apostles to stay awake and be watchful or they would fall into temptation. (Matthew 26) He told them what their goal was (resist the temptation of the devil) and also how to navigate around it (staying focused/alert). In dealing with the disgruntled “whomever”, it is imperative that you keep your focus on the intended destination, which is a helpful and peaceful resolution. There may be other sights and sounds that seek to gain your attention often coming from the individual, but a focused eye/mind is Key lest you get pulled in an all together direction (debating, taking a defensive posture, blaming, etc). For example, pain, hurt, and frustration can cause someone to act out in a seemingly threatening or unhealthy way. When you, with wisdom and focus, are confronted with sour behaviors and seemingly trite dispositions, you are able to ignore the negative and strive for the positive. Being focused does not necessarily mean having tunnel vision, but it means having a wide-enough peripheral that you are able to negotiate the proper move at the proper time. (1 Corinthians 16:13) You may see all those sights and sounds, but they don’t affect you because you know your intended destination!

While on my way to the candy store (Hershey’s) J , I passed a number of distracting people, places, and things … but I knew what I wanted, knew where it was, and successfully navigated my way there and back … a choice I made! Stay focused … it is a choice!

Phil 3:13 “No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead …” NLT

You’re CLUEd!

The You're a Star!

2011-03-19T19:15:00.000-07:00

“The only girl in the world" (Got your attention huh?!)
I’m not promoting Rihanna - lol. Really, as I considering a topic this week the song came on the radio - yes, I've got teens that have "jacked" car my radio! I monitor it though :) Anyway ... it’s a great concept and reality. Ladies, you know it ... men, we better get it! However, in the world of leadership, the principle is paramount. The people you lead have to know that they matter. What they do, what they accomplish, how they feel, how much they have achieved, etc. This of course has to be genuinely felt. If it’s not they WILL KNOW … and LET YOU KNOW! The important thing is that you understand everyone’s need for validation, fairness, guidance and integrity. The wise leader will take these notions to heart. Solomon says in the book of Proverbs 11:3 “The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” He says in Proverbs 18:13 "He who answers before listening — that is his folly and his shame." Also in Proverbs 28:21 “To have respect of persons is not good …” Again in Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Lastly he says in Proverbs 16:23 “A wise man's heart guides his mouth, and his lips promote instruction.” These and many, many more speak to the wisdom a leader so desperately needs. A leader (in the home, church, or organization) must among other things be a disseminator of knowledge i.e. give people what they need to succeed. In doing this you make them feel that they matter. When people know without a doubt that they matter – and not just lip service – they will begin to live out their purpose for being in the group! In the home and church, where young people are concerned; if your only dealings with them are to constantly shine a negative light on their doings, they will cower, shrink, and disappear. Part of making sure people matter is simply telling them! Withholding your praise will only make matters worse. Let people hear from you that they matter … that you care what happens in their lives … that you are excited about their progress and achievements. When they do a good thing, let them know (even if it’s half way right). When Peter expressed his personal growth in his proclamation that Jesus was the “Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16), Jesus was excited that Peter opened his mind to the Father above and received the truth of who He was. He was heard to say “Blessed are you!” I’m sure Peter felt pretty good at that moment. (Wouldn’t you?) John C. Maxwell calls this “The Law of Connection”. You have to connect with people before you can lead, confront, discipline, or challenge them. People will gladly spend and be spent with a group where they know they are appreciated. If the connection is not there, you will fail every time and instead of your follower, child, spouse, group, etc knowing for sure that they matter, the suspense may drive them wild and they will begin to rebel, complain, or worse, “hit the road”. If God has placed you in a leadership function, always to “Make them feel, like they’re the only ones in the world”! So, I’ll give it to the pop star this time, she made me think!

Now you have the CLUE!

Thank God for the Pressure?!

2011-03-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

Thank God For The Pressure! (2 Corinthians 1:1-11)

This text is about pressure … but also about Hope. It is also about Community and even Leadership.

The apostle refers to a time when he was under enormous strain, stress, and intense pressure. His human capacity to endure was at its limit. The pressure points were swelling and the proverbial walls were caving in. Among the thoughts in Paul’ mind was to prove and settle the fact that his ministry was indeed of God unto whom he was called to be an apostle for. Some of the very folk he loved were getting his service to God “twisted.”

The only thing clear to him was death. Trouble was at his doorstep … Tribulations were awaiting him … Trials were after him … and Triumph was nowhere to be found.

Perhaps you have been there? Pressure! Today’s world is full of pressure. Pressure to win (at all costs) … pressure to perform, achieve, and just to get by. No sector of society is immune to it. Preacher and President … congressmen and church men … first lady and bag lady … We all feel its effects. Emotionally and financially we are drained … Spiritually we are spent … Physically we are broke-down. The question is not how to avoid it, but how to deal with it. Running is not the answer. Ignoring it is not the answer. Avoiding it will only make it worse. What should a person in today’s world do? I need to remind you that many a person's mettle was forged in the battle to overcome and deal with the pressures of life. Someone has said “If you don't go through a test, you have no test-i-mony.”

So, how shall we deal with the pressure-cookers of life? While we may never be faced with the pressures Paul felt and underwent, we all have pressure points – pressure that makes us want to scream! Yes, I almost screamed when I saw those gas prices the other day! J

- Mornings we want to run away

- Afternoons we wish we could hide

- Nights we wish could go on forever

- Days we don’t feel like going on

- Times we just want to quit

But rather than run, hide, or quit … I suggest another option. Use the pressure points of life to God’s glory!

A close look at the text reveals at least five (5) things pressure can do for us.

Pressure can lead us to God’s comfort- God of all comfort = paraklesis – parakeleo = call or come to our side. Like the comforter i.e. Holy Spirit ... IOW God is near! How near? Very near – closer than close – easier than using a cell phone, quicker than using e-mail … God is so close – God is there when you need him! Just ask Martha and Mary – (John 11) … Lazarus was sick, Jesus was away, they found him! He is always close by – Psalms 121 … “I will lift up my eyes unto the hills …” He is there when you need him – whatever you are facing, whatever you are up against, whatever you are afraid of, etc

Pressure can equip us to comfort others God comforts us “in” all our tribultation so that we can help others! God is with you while going through your test and when he delivers you you must help others ... get it? When God helps you through something he is positioning you to help someone else … its like a cycle …- When you go through your pain of sickness, death of loved ones, difficulties, etc. and God’s helping Spirit (Comforter) is with you and keeps you from losing it; you in turn help someone else who might be stuck and can’t get out …
Pressure can produce patient endurance - Hope
The book of James (1:3) says the trying of your faith worketh patience
This speaks of “hope” i.e. cheerful or hopeful endurance ... Back in John 11, Jesus said "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God" ... God is in the mix, don't worry!
We read in Hebrews 12:2 … Jesus for the joy endured the cross, despising the shame, etc

- Resurrection comes only after the cross!

Pressure can teach us to rely on God- Trust in God, not in self, other men, situation, etc. but trust in God even when things look their worst … when you are at a Dead end – when you must take an unfamiliar Detour – when you are at a Dry place … Trust God! The Children of Israel had to learn to trust God’s leading …When there was no food, he fed the, when there was no water, he gave them water from a rock … he protected them, he guided them, he kept them! So we rely on Him today. Why? If he can raise the dead, feed a nation of people, walk on water, etc.. he can bring life to your issues … financially, health, relationship, housing, educational

– Pressure can generate prayerful thanksgiving among believers - Community Helping by praying for each other … Paul says – “Because I was under pressure and you prayed for me and God delivered me –the gift – they can also rejoice and give God the glory!” When we use those words "I'm praying for you", let's mean it and see what God does! You are also blessed by asking God to bless others who are in the pressure cooker!

As a fellow minister friend of mine says "Let's be HopeDealers!"

Hope can build us a bridge from despair to deliverance

Hope can lead us from grief to grace

Hope can move us from bitterness to blessing

Hope can lift us from tragedy to triumph

Hope can push us from suicide to salvation

We sing the song sometimes: “My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness … On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.”

You've Got the CLUE!

So you've got talent?

2011-03-05T13:52:00.000-08:00

This morning during the pre-dawn, hours I was watching an old episode of “I Love Lucy” – the black & white ones! This episode like so many others centered on Lucy’s insatiable desire to perform in one of Ricky’s musicals. There seemed to be no length that she wouldn’t go to make sure she was available to be a part of the show! Ricky, knowing that his lovely wife wasn’t suited for the spotlight (so he thought), would still devise or rework a scene in the show that would feature Lucy in a “minor” role. Those minor role’s would become “major” roles once Lucy got involved … she would see to that! What a comedienne!

As I laughed to myself (remember it’s the pre-dawn hour), it occurred to me that in the workplace, church, religious organization or the home, there always seems to be a “Lucy” trying to get the spotlight. Many times they are honest people who just simply want an opportunity to experience the “limelight” for a moment and then they will be fine and will allow things to continue as they were. Kind of like little Johnny wanting to sing for his aunts & uncles at Thanksgiving just to get a rise out of them for a moment and after the attention he’s fine. Well what do you do when you know someone is not suited for the stage, but insists to you and everyone else who will listen that they are? Well for starters it’s a good idea to see if they are serious in their request. Do they have a true passion for the work?! Then, which is often the case, training or mentoring is in order. In the bible the older Apostle Paul trained and mentored the younger minster Timothy. I don’t think Timothy was vying for attention (especially since some of Paul’s words to him may suggest that he was timid) but nonetheless he started out ill-equipped for the job i.e. he was young, inexperienced, at a large church, and compared to Paul, he was a complete novice!

Yet the apostle spent his time and attention on him to assure him that although he may not be ready for center-stage at the moment, if he followed his lead, he would one day be an equipped and empowered minster! We get a glimpse of this in 1 Timothy 4:12-14 “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Do not neglect the gift that is in you …” (NKJV). That may very well be what Lucy needed! Maybe if Ricky recognized that she was talented and just needed to be directed (or re-directed) he would’ve experienced less of her shenanigans and would have welcomed her as a valued member of his team. That’s a function of leadership! John C. Maxwell writes “God doesn’t necessarily choose leaders based on their natural talent or ability. Neither does He always choose them based on their age and experience. God chooses leaders based on their availability not their ability …” (The Maxwell Leadership Bible). Although Lucy may not have been really talented, she was always there and ready!

In your home, job, or church, if you are leader you must keep your eyes and ears open for those looking for opportunities to shine. Sometimes they will purposely jump in your eyesight or scream in your ears, but your job is to evaluate the desire or request and determine with God’s help, where and when they can be utilized to share their gifts and talents. It is also your job to refer “Lucy’s” to a sideline position if that is necessary! “Lucy, you’ve got some splaining to do!”

Now you have the CLUE!

Winter Workshop. A brief summary.

2011-02-24T08:12:00.000-08:00

“Whatever Happened to the Family? Where Are the Leaders?” This was the theme of our annual Winter Workshop and Revival Meeting. It is always refreshing to begin each year with intelligent and stimulating discussion designed to affect change in the hearts and minds of believers. In previous years we have hosted seminars dealing with finances, grief & depression, relationship issues, evangelism, and aging to name a few. This year we invited one of the nation’s foremost scholars and historians with an expertise in church leadership and administration as well as the dynamic of the African American family. Dr. Jefferson R. Caruthers, the evangelist of the Carver Road Church of Christ in Winston-Salem, NC, addressed the above mentioned topics with the professionalism, adeptness, and dedication to the “text” as he has been noted for in the churches of Christ for many years. He presents a thorough and keen insight into many of the historical and practical issues that we have come to be familiar with in our fellowship. One such issue is “Faith after 18 years” i.e. how & why many in our churches make a mass exodus from the church after they reach the age of 18. In speaking with Dr. Caruthers it became clear to me that many of us have been guilty of spiritual sabotage by saying things like “As long as you are in my house you will do as I say” or “Until your 18^th birthday you are my responsibility and then you can do what you want”! Both of those statements as well as others have been used in the family context for many years among many in our number. However, he brought out the fact (biblically) that our faith should be passed down from generation to generation whether the child is 18, 48 or 108! In his piece on administration and leadership, he dealt with the leaders in the bible from a biblical historical context i.e. how God prepares his leaders for the functions they undertake. He also dealt with many of the historical positions “brethren” have taken on a leaders qualifications. In his presentations, which are immersed in scripture, he brings out the “meat” of the passage and allows those in attendance to arrive at the biblical and logical conclusion based on the present and surrounding context staying true to the un-prejudicial and original meaning. My congregation as well as many others in our fellowship must come to grips individually with the many issues of our day, and in doing so must remain faithful to the written word of God. Our lives at the “Well” have been richly blessed! Our families are stronger; our leaders (in the home and church) have been strengthened and challenged as well.

You have the CLUE!

LOOK BEHIND YOU ...

2011-02-18T11:20:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite sayings and mantra’s of life is “The final test of leadership is whether or not anyone is following”. Another way to say it is, “If you are leading and no one is following, you are just taking a walk”. As a leader, especially in the religious context, followers mean a lot; a whole lot. Not for the reason you may first think, however. Certainly as a leader you want to “lead”. But more importantly those behind you must be learning, and growing into leaders themselves. A major part of a leader’s job is to make other leaders.

Kenneth O. Gangel writes:

“Church leaders need to produce leaders who will reproduce leaders precisely as it is done in the family – through experience, instruction, and modeling. The true leader practices all of them all the time. The leadership process remains at heart a discipling process with modeling the first indispensible part of the task.” Feeding and Leading.

Think of your ministry, life, work, or organization for a minute … how well are you preparing your followers to lead? As a father my primary job is to prepare my young sons for the experience of manhood. My daily “up-close-and-personal” life must radiate confidence, maturity, compassion and competence … all vital necessities of leadership and must have’s for men and women today. Compassion may seem like the odd-man-out, but leadership without the ability to feel for and with people is barbarism! People are attracted to you based on what they see “in” you, not by what they see “on” you. That leads to my main CLUE …

1 Sam 22:1-2 says … “All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him.” NIV

David endeared himself tremendously with not only his father’s household, but all of those who were in particular straits themselves.

The text says that among the people, certain sorts were attracted to David.

(a) The Distressed - 22:2a "everyone who was in distress” (Lit. a narrow place; confinement)

(b) The Debtors - 22:2b "everyone who was in debt" (you know what debt is - lol)

These were people on the run, in trouble, and in need of serious help. They knew that their situation was bad and but would get worse if David wasn’t there. David had made a connection with the people. God had blessed him and the people had an affinity with him. We read in

1 Sam. 18:16 (v.5) that “all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them.”

This means that he was a man of the people. He walked with them, he talked with them … he shared in their pains and successes … he was with them on the battlefield … he was available; he was touchable; he was lovable … the people knew if anybody cared for them David did … if anyone could understand them David could … if anyone could help them David was certainly the one!

How well do you identify with those you lead or work with? Would your presence be missed if you were to leave? I’m not speaking of a self-serving, narcissistic type of environment where you have made yourself the center of everything … but would there be a general consensus that things are better when you are there because you have “connected or bonded” with others? they gladly give up the comfort and stability of their surroundings to be where you are? This at the outset seems strange to think about, but think again of your family and what you provide for them: food, shelter, security, love, etc. Well as a leader you have been placed there to be a provider … a giver … a supplier … a FEEDER! It’s only when people grasp a deep sense of care and concern that they will long to be where you are. They will come HUNGRY! Competence & courage will take you a long way … but the real test of your leadership is if anyone is actually following your lead! A person with no compassion for the plight of others will soon find that no one behind his back has his back! For David this was a critical reason for his success with people. So much so that he “became their leader” i.e. the people made him their leader. Look behind you. Anybody there?

You have the CLUE!

@•#* No, I won't Go!

2011-02-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

H@%l No, I won't Go!

As a leader, I am drawn to the situation in Egypt. It has become apparent to everyone in the world except Pres. Mubarak, that his time as leader has come to an abrupt end. His backing of course comes from his military force. But it remains to be seen just how long they will support him.

What if any Lesson can leaders learn from this display of wills. Well, at first, it must be understood that leadership is a "granted" position ie people grant you the power to lead them. They may follow you out of a sense of obligation or because of your title only for a short time - it has been because of his army that he has stayed this long - but in general people will not support you if they feel they can't trust you or they feel that you don't represent their interests. Biblically speaking, leaders must not compromise the Word of God or their convictions, but still, people allow you to lead them and they will leave you if they don't feel your compassion and concern for them. They will find another preacher or leader to lead them; one who cares. What we do, we don't do for accolades, but we must lead Gods people in a God honoring way; a way that considers them and helps them become all they can become! That was the apostle Paul's teaching in Ephesians 4 "perfecting the saints for the work of ministry". My prayers are with our friends in Egypt and I hope no more lives are lost and that good leadership and common sense will prevail.

A short CLUE

What's in YOUR hand?

2011-02-10T07:31:00.000-08:00

"And the Lord said unto him, What is that in thine hand? and he said, A rod." (Ex. 4:2)

If you are familiar with this account of Moses, you will appreciate this ... even if you are not, you can apreciate this moment of transition in the life of a great leader! Moses was chosen by God Himself to leave his position of relative obscurity and take up a very prominent role of leadership … He was being tasked to abandon his shepherding of his four legged flocks to step up and into a very demanding position in which he would lead another kind of flock … A two legged one … the children of Israel. God had assured him that he in fact was God’s choice and that the Almighty would certainly be with him. At this point all Moses had to do was accept his position and task and surely he would be successful! What an opportunity!However, it appears that Moses heard the LORD talking, but his mind was wandering … he could understand what the LORD was saying but he wasn’t really hearing him … he understood the words, but he began to wonder and entertain hypothetical scenarios. I believe he went in to “Panic mode”!

Life can make you panic … there are some circumstances that cause us to panic sometimes … financial, medical, familial … panic is a response to an uncertain stimulus … many have “panic” attacks … brought on by any number of situations … usually a fear of an unfavorable outcome … a childhood phobia … an anxiety … many are frozen in their tracks … the root of Moses’ panic was a fear of rejection – they won’t believe me … they will say The LORD didn’t appear to me … they will think I’m crazy … he allowed his inner fear and insecurity to overcome him and question the very God who appeared to him and declared himself to be “I AM THAT I AM” …

- He allowed his minor insecurities to overshadow God’s major possibilities

- He allowed his personal limitations to overshadow God’s universal preparations

- He let his private boundaries overshadow God’s expansive borders … yes when he thought of the fact that God would call him, a desert dweller, a shepherd, and former Egyptian to go back to Egypt and stand before a powerful king, he looked at himself then looked at the task before him and came to the conclusion that surely he was the wrong man for the job! Surely they would need someone with more prominence and notoriety … certainly someone of greater significance …

I don’t know what it is about a man sometimes (I mean a male here) that makes him/us panic and show signs of trepidation from time to time … every once in a while I hear a sister say “he wasn’t ready for commitment” or I hear a brother say “I don’t know if I am ready to make that step yet” …

Well, let me speak from my limited experience: “The only way to assure failure is not to try” … when I went to college many years ago, I had hesitation because it was new, but I went anyway …

When I joined the military many years ago, I had anxieties because it was something different, but I went anyway …

When I met my wife over 20 years ago, I had never been married … I had never proposed … I had never taken care of anybody but myself … it was new, it was different, I was a little nervous … but I went on ahead anyway … and today I thank God because he has brought us a mighty long way! When our first son was born … I had never been a father before … I had never had someone call me “daddy” … I never thought I could love another person like that … but God helped me “man-up” … God’s word directed me … God’s people protected me … God’s ministers selected me … and taught me all I needed to know!

I’m saying when you are given a task by someone greater than you, or you are venturing out into unknown territory … have faith in God, have faith in the ability that he has given you, and have a little faith in yourself … after all, we are made in His image! He put something/someone/situation in your hand ... what are you gonna do?

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
----from A Return to Love, by Marianne Williamson.

Now you have the CLUE!

Teamwork really does make the dream work!

2011-02-04T14:09:00.000-08:00

Teamwork still makes the dream work!

How many times have you endeavored to get a job done and realized that if you had others working with you that it would be a “Heck-of-a-lot” easier? It may have been in accomplishing a project way too big for one person to begin with. Or even in leading a small organization or church group. Hey, even guiding a home ladies (gents too!) I mean, sometimes even the children can lend a hand to get the dishes done or the laundry folded! It doesn’t have to naturally fall on mom (I’m not trying to be politically correct hereJ). My point is this “Leadership need not be such a lonely and burdensome task when there are others who are capable of assisting!” Sounds simple huh? Well, it would appear that more and more “leaders” are dead set on doing things all on their own thereby not allowing others to grow. Sometimes as a leader you have to allow others to help even if they only get it half right at times. Then you praise them for the effort!

Here’s the CLUE …

My interest in biblical leadership and administration has often brought me to the apostle Paul. Paul in several places lists the qualities for effective leadership and administration. On a few occasions he stressed that there should always be unity, order, and harmony in the Lord’s church (1 Corinthians 1:10-10; 14:33, 40). As an administrator Paul literally “wrote the book” on choosing qualified personnel, training them, and setting them over assigned tasks. Passages such as 1 Timothy 3:1-13; 2 Timothy 2:2; Titus 1:5-9, stress the importance of faithfulness, hospitality, teaching ability, good family life, respectability, etc for individuals desiring leadership positions in the church.

Part of the reason the apostle Paul was so effective was his ability to work well with other people. How many horror stories have you heard of the “associate pastor/minister” and the senior pastor/minister never getting along because one or both of them were insecure of themselves and worried about their positions? This usually narrows boils down to a lack of proper communication. In an article I recall reading, the author shared several ways to improve communication and overall work environment among pastors and associate pastors. (I cannot recall the article as it was for a class project some time ago) He suggests (through various interviews) that associates and others working with senior pastors need among other things: clear areas of responsibility, praise, public support, and social “hang out” time, i.e. just spending time together. He rightly stated that a healthy relationship between the senior and associate pastor is crucial to the life and ministry of the church.

We see this clearly in the Apostle Paul’s relationships with his younger associates Timothy and Titus. He left Timothy at Ephesus and Titus at Crete to “set things in order” i.e. teach, train, and lead, but before that, he spent time with them … teaching them … giving them time to grow and learn from him (2 Corinthians 12:18; Galatians 2:1; 2 Timothy 2:2; 3:10-17; Titus 1:5). Is it any secret that the churches we read about in the bible were taught to work together and share responsibilities with each other? As Paul spent time and taught his young associates, he instilled in them the idea of teamwork. Teamwork or shared leadership is a mark of a healthy church, group, home or organization. The traditional standards of “Top-down leadership” only, may have worked in the past, but leaders today will not survive without teamwork and shared leadership experience. Teamwork really does make the Dream Work!
You now have the CLUE!

Are You in the Wrong Place?

2011-01-26T09:59:00.000-08:00

We remember and recognize the great work of Gideon (Judges 6 – 8). He led a downsized army of 300 and with God’s guidance he brought great victory to Israel during a dismal period of the Judges. He is certainly to be honored for his leadership. But what you may not have considered is that during a very crucial time in the history of God’s people, Gideon was in hiding. God’s people were “shut-up” and “shut-out” … They lived in caves and dens and were not even able to enjoy the fruit of their labor for fear of it being taken by their oppressors! When God’s messenger appeared to Gideon he was covertly covering his crop in order to keep enough for him and his family … he was simply in self-survival mode. The situation of the few (his family) seemed to weigh more on his heart than the situation of the many (his nation).

When the messenger addressed him, he did so in a way that perhaps was foreign to Gideon. Instead of calling his name, he said “Thou mighty man of valor”! Surely Gideon was shocked. Can you hear him, “I’m just a man trying to take care of my family in these hard times!” However, he was God’s chosen vessel for such a time as they were in and therefore he was addressed as he was truly in his heart! (God knows!) He was called to do a job much nobler and gallant than his current position of hiding grain. In other words, “He was the Right Man in the Wrong Place”!

When we think of a hero, we think of a man with an iron will and a bedrock spirit. We envision a man with the sharpest intellect and a zealous spirit. When we think of a hero we see a man accustomed to hardship and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice if warranted. When we think of a hero we see a man willing to ride alone into battle. He is a man of action, purpose and drive. We don’t envision a hero as someone sitting on the sidelines and hiding in the bushes. We don’t picture as a hero one who is willing to let others do what he can do. No, when we picture a hero, we see someone with the mettle to withstand the fiercest battle and darkest night.

Gideon was to “play the hero” that day and in subsequent days ahead! Even when he tried to evade the issue by saying his family was not prominent or that he was not the preferred one in his father’s house, he was assured that the LORD would be with him! “You Got this son!”

I am not suggesting that what he was currently doing was wrong, but it was not what God needed him to be doing at such a time as the times they were in. Desperate times call for valiant measures and God needed this young man to fulfill his purpose … he needed him to be a thresher of men, rather than a thresher of wheat.

God did with Gideon what all good leaders do … put the right people in the right place! It’s a function of leadership to identify the task to be accomplished, identify all the parameters needed to fulfill it, and to choose a warm body to get it done!

Where are you today “O man or Woman of Valor”? Are you in the Right Place? Have you considered the plight of your nation, your family, your church? It’s honorable to “take care of yours” … but it is critical that you make yourself available to take care of God’s! Will you step out of the winepress of self-survival to the frontline of leadership?

Now you have the CLUE!

Take 5, 6, or 7 into 2011!

2011-01-15T16:46:00.000-08:00

Take these 7 into 2011!

As a leader of people …any people … there are several areas that should be considered in order to have a successful organization or followers. Since we are still buzzing over the New Year, I thought it feasible to list a few administrative Tid-bits that I try to live by in my leadership/ministry role …

Seven things that should be developed on the part of administrative leaders in the church/organization are:

Stimulate their “Want-to” as opposed to their “Have to”! The leader should arouse or stimulate self involvement. A person will work more effectively on something that he wants to do or something that is his idea rather than something he is told to do. Leaders must involve the group in the planning and sharing of ideas, etc. the leader must guide the group into the discovery of what they desire and need to accomplish.
Don’t be a total control freak! The leader should be able to give freedom and still keep control. This is indeed a challenge. You don’t stifle creativity nor give the people the feeling that they can’t do anything. However, the reality is that the leader is still the leader and the one people will ultimately look to. This is truly a skill that good leaders and administrators develop over time. Others must be deputized and then supervised. You are the organizer and the one with the resources such as inspiration and encouragement to give to the others.
See through their lenses, goggles, or contacts! Learn to identify yourself with others. You must put yourself in their place i.e. how do they see things. What abilities and comments can they offer? Don’t stay in the “ivory” tower and forget the day-to-day work of the church others are doing.
Give it away! Be sure to give credit where credit is due. This gives a feeling of appreciation for people and gives assurance that they are doing the job well. Perhaps one of the worst things or feelings in the world (and the church) is to be doing a job and not be sure whether or not it is being done correctly. A good principle to remember is “there’s no limit to what you can accomplish as long as you don’t care who gets the credit”.
Be contagious like a virus! Learn to show confidence not only in yourself but in your people. A strong leader helps to produce strong people. When a leader shows courage, confidence, and has a positive attitude, it becomes very contagious and spreads.
Don’t take it … personal! Learn to deal with problem people and problem situations. There is no getting around it as every organization will encounter them. Some suggestions are as follows: Do not identify with a matter i.e. make it personal. There are times when criticism is needed because we all make mistakes or have bad ideas. Be prepared to go the second mile with the opposition i.e. take the time and consider the whole picture including the alternatives, in other words, don’t be so dismissive of people when they criticize or present problem situations.
Make your word bond! The ability to demand respect. People in the group, organization or church should be able to respect the leader as the leader. To help accomplish this, the leader must be truthful and above board with people. Also the leader should be factual and above board about mistakes. Be realistic in planning and programming. Don’t exaggerate or paint a rosy, pie in the sky picture that is not practical. A positive spirit is a must for an administrative leader. Then, by all means, the leader should be trustworthy. People must know that they can take you at your word.

Happy Leading!

Now you have the CLUE!

What Will You Do When He Brings You Through? Cry, Commit, Declare, Praise!

2011-01-04T21:00:00.000-08:00

A study of Psalm 66

This Psalm is composed of two independent but related units. The first unit is actually a hymn – vv.1-12, which may be further divided into two separate hymns. The second unit contains an additional thanksgiving psalm – vv.13-20

It is from this second unit (vv. 13-20) that we will draw most of our attention. However, good hermeneutics demands that we discover the meaning of the preceding text and context. The psalmist writes from the general theme of Thanksgiving for deliverance. All the earth is invited to praise God for the marvels performed for His people (Ps 66:1-4); the marvels, especially His turning the sea into dry land (Ps 66:5-7); is the ground of praise, in that He brought His people into a wealthy place.

God is to be praised by all his creation. He is King and Majesty … he is Lord and God … he is Savior and Master … he is Deliverer and Host of the army. Anything that was is because He is … anything that is – is because of his power … anything that will be is only because of his mercy!

The earth … all the earth … all the lands … is invited and strongly encouraged to recognize and give God the praise he deserves. They are encouraged to Make a joyful noise … Sing forth the honor of his name … Make his praise glorious … Say unto God how awesome … The are invited to Submit to him one way or another!

“All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing unto thy name.”

This is and invitation …You see, he is watching and waiting … he is waiting for “all the lands” to praise him. “His eyes behold the nations” God is watching! He invites them to “Come and see the works of God”

His magnificent works are all around us …

His creative genius shines before us …

His marvelous power is evident among us …

“All the lands” need to open their eyes and realize it only by God’s hand that we move and breath and have our existence.

Then the psalmist shifts from the all the lands to all God’s people (v.8) “O bless our God, ye people” that’s the people of God! The community of believers … God’s delivered ones! They are now invited to give praise to his name … “make the voice of his praise to be heard”

Now was not the time to be silent

… now was not the time to sit back and let others speak … now it was their turn to make a joyful noise for God. You see they had a testimony …

God secured them (v.9)

Ps 66:9 he has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping. NIV

We were tried like silver … he preserved us

We were captured in the “net” … he preserved us

We had heavy burdens on our backs … he preserved us

He caused evil men to ride us

We went through the “fire and water”

Isa 43:2

2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

KJV

The Apostle Paul declares in 2 Cor 4:8-9

8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

KJV

God preserved them and brought them through to a wealthy place i.e. a place of “abundance” … isn’t God good!

Now the psalmist gets personal … we all should get personal with regard to what God has done for us. Yes the world needs to recognize him … the community of believers (the church) needs to recognize him …

but YOU must make it personal.

What will you do when he brings you through?

There are a series of “I WILL’s” in the text that will help you do what you need to do when He brings you through.

I Will Go into the house… v. 13a … Movement! (Also “with” … what will you bring with you when you come … your attitude, etc)
I Will Pay thee my vows … v.13b …Commitment! (Lord if you … I will) (Also today the promises and works you commit to doing should be kept … Jesus kept his promises)
I Will Offer … v.15a … Sacrifice! (Time, Talent, Tithes)
I Will Declare … v.16 … Tell Somebody! What has God done for you?

We’ve got to open our mouths and declare the goodness of God

It is God that has been good to you

It is God that brought you from a mighty long way

It is God who puts clothes on your back

It is God who puts food on your table

It is God who brought your child back safely

It is God who has kept your marriage together all these years

It is God who is keeping you sane after losing your loved ones

Don’t you know it is God:

- who keeps your heart beating 100,000 times a day

- who puts the sweet taste at the tip of your tongue

- who placed the 31 pairs of spinal nerves that originate from the spinal cord to provide two-way communication

- who placed that three pound piece of “jelly” that we call a brain where it is and causes it to control every thing we do with or without thinking

One more thing here ...

The psalmist lets us know the process it took and for him to Go, Pay, Offer, Declare

v.17-20

I cried out to him! V.17a
I committed my praise to him! V.17b
I declared my innocence to him! V.18
I praise him because he surely listened to me! Vv.19-20

Cry ... Commit ... Declare ... Praise!

Note: (In the above photo I was in extreme pain due to two herniated discs in my back ... we held a "Stop the Violence Rally" in Hopewell and I gave an anti-violence speech. When I recovered you couldn't shut me up about how God brought me through with no surgery!!)

Now you've got the CLUE!

"I have Plans for you!"

2010-12-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

Jer 29:10-13

11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

As we end one year and begin the New Year, we fix plans to our agenda as if it all depends on us. Let us always remember that as we make our earthly plans for the day and the year, that God has some plans from a heavenly agenda! He has aligned the circumstances just right so that when we are ready … ready to return to him … ready to acknowledge him … ready to share his beauty with others … when we are ready, He has some plans with our names on them. He has plans to prosper our endeavors and lead us into a future filled with hope. He sets it all up for us and it is up to us to simply claim it! As God’s people we have to trust and acknowledge Him and that he has always been there … Yes, He has been there this year when we were at our worst … He was looking when we did that which shouldn’t be seen … He saw that which we tried to hide! Yet He still has a plan for our lives. That plan includes our seeking Him with all of our heart, and He bringing us out of the miry mess that our lives has gotten us into. Yes, He knows our state and He still loves us … Still plans for us … Still wants us to want Him! What a remarkable God we serve! He’s ready … He has plans for you … Are you ready?

Now You Have The Final CLUE of 2010!

Peace for a Prosperous New Year!

He Chose a barn ... not a castle!

2010-12-23T09:08:00.000-08:00

Author Gene Edwards writes in his book “The Divine Romance”, of a scene that must’ve been not only mind blowing but mind bending for the angelic beings of heaven: “Gabriel lifted his hand and announced: ‘Universal history is about to know its greatest hour. The Lord God is about to incarnate himself in the womb of woman and come forth in the form of human flesh.” ‘

He describes how the angels looked in amazement as their Lord disappeared from His place to that place to become God in the flesh. Even further he describes their angelic ignorance when they discovered that he chose for his birth on earth a barn and not a castle. (The Divine Romance)

I often wonder what that scene really looked like. Imagine if you can how it appeared when the God of all creation stepped out of that portal from the spiritual realm to the physical. When he set out on a journey as if to find his long lost mate and bring her back to him. That day in the city of David, his journey began on earth. His travels would take him to the most amazing places: the hearts of men and women. It was in those places that it was manifested who he really was and what his mission was to be among them. He became a healer to the hurting, a helper to the helpless, and a restorer of honor to the honor-less. Although those who needed him resided in castles too, his path took him closer to those associated with the “barn type” of existence.

It was in those hearts that he stayed, even after his departure. It is because of those hearts set a blaze by his love that you & I can rejoice that we too were found and redeemed from our lost state.

I wonder how different things would’ve been if he chose a castle instead of a barn! Thank you Jesus!

Oh, and he found his bride, the church!

Now you have the CLUE!

Ok ... I got this ... I think?

2010-12-15T13:12:00.000-08:00

Often, as leaders we may feel the need to prove our worth by being the “point man/woman” on every issue. "I got this" we say. Do we? I often wondered how great leaders do what they do seemingly by themselves. Then I discovered that they don’t. They get help! Here’s my CLUE for the week:

When Moses is considered in the area of administration, it is difficult to discuss him without a mention and elaboration on his father-in-law Jethro. There was a time during Moses’ leadership when he was overworked, over-tasked, and generally “in over his head”. We find this story in the book of Exodus 18:13-27. Moses had taken on the awesome responsibility of settling the disputes and other problems of the entire nation of Israel there in the wilderness. Moses sat literally from morning to evening doing this. He felt that he alone was capable of such a monumental task. This guy had a serious “Superman Complex”! LOL. How many times is this the case in our churches, businesses, and even in the home (Superwoman – ladies!) His father-in-law came to visit and could not believe his eyes! Yes, in-laws are a great asset in financial and home planning because in most cases they have been where you are … just a CLUE! J

Jethro inquired as to what he was doing and why other people were sitting around not being utilized. When Moses explained what he was doing, Jethro immediately gave his son-in-law some very valuable administrative advice. “The Old Man” stated that what Moses was doing was not good for the people or good for Moses. Essentially what he told him could easily be called “Principles of Administration 101”. He shared with the basics of good administration and delegation. Moses was to train capable men for the work and allow them to make meager decisions and bring the difficult ones to him. He was to choose men with certain qualifications and train them to be effective in their roles. This is a foundational component of administration. No man can and should do it all. I mean, why would you want to!?

Upon listening to his father-in-law Moses became a much better leader. This proves that leadership and administration principles can be taught. Kenneth O. Gangel says although “Moses was skilled in all the learning of the Egyptians, and he was trained for politics and war, the task of supervising the massive movement of people seemed beyond his managerial competence.” To lead and administrate over any number of people (Moses lead over a million) you must be adept in administration. Despite his lack of stellar performance during on this occasion, Moses stands tall in the annals of leadership, management, and administration as a positive role model.

Now you have the CLUE!

(I dedicate this article to fellow gospel preacher who was recently called from his labor to rest to await his heavenly reward – Evangelist Donald J. Bennett, a great leader called too soon!)

Administration in the church … I thought all I needed was an “Axe and TwoThirty-Eights”? (Acts 2:38)

2010-12-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

Often times people have the faulty perception that all “The preacher” does is preach! Well, that is a great calling and one that I am glad to do each and every day! However to say that is “all” he does is not factual or fair. There are “set-ups” in churches where a board of elders or deacons oversee or ”see to it” that the work gets done, but even in those situations much of the influential guidance is held by the minister (whether he knows it or not). Now don’t hate me for living my own experience! LOL. Let’s get a CLUE … At the preachers disposal, is a text book replete with examples of the “man of God” taking the administrative role in dealing with and within God’s heritage. This text book is none other than the bible.

The bible, God’s word, is a great handbook for administration. From the very beginning, we see God utilizing administrative leadership in the creation of the world. Everything Jehovah God did was orderly, methodical, and with a purpose. He then delegated certain work to Adam to carry out and even came by to evaluate his progress (Genesis chapter 3). God gave Adam a place to live and work (The Garden of Eden). He gave him a job to do (Keep the Garden), and he gave him a wife to care for (Eve). Each of these areas lends itself to proper administration and handling of complex situations. Adam was not only the first human being, but he was the first administrator! God tells him “… Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.” (Genesis 2:28) As an administrator, Adam set the groundwork for other patriarchs of the faith such as Abraham, Joseph, and of course Moses

Administration can be defined as “The identification of work to be done, the division of that work into jobs, the delegation of those jobs to responsible individuals and the supervision of the work to its completion.” The display of this definition can be clearly seen during the time of the biblical character Joseph, son of Jacob, overseer of Pharaoh’s house and second in command to Pharaoh (Genesis 41). After Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dream, he elaborated on a highly effective process of keeping the nation (and the world) from starving. He identified the work to be done – take up a fifth part; he described the division of that work – gather all the food of the good years; he suggested they delegate that work to responsible individuals – appoint officers over the land; and that they should supervise the work until completion – let them keep food in the cities. When the famine came, Pharaoh directed everyone to Joseph for his administrative guidance. He was a master administrator leaving some practical lessons for the modern church, school, or Christian organization administrator today such as: being spiritually connected with God, using wisdom, and keeping a level head. These are all good qualities for spiritual administrators. Whether you are a preacher or other leader in your organization, it is always to your advantage to seek to the follow the timeless pattern set before us by the Great Administrator of the universe! [Note: Even in situations where there are no elders or other leadership, the principles of sound biblical and managerial administration can and should be utilized by those taking a leadership role.]

Now you have the CLUE!

"Will they follow your lead ... Do People matter 2U?"

2010-11-29T15:18:00.000-08:00

It becomes quite important when the state of the present world is considered to prepare the next generation for leadership. It has been said on more than one occasion and in many ways, the importance of the youth of today and tomorrow. As we look through the streets of “anytownusa” we see the remnants of a generation that allowed popular culture to play a significant part in the lives of their youth. Let’s face it, if you are reading this blog you probably didn’t grow up wearing your “pants to the ground”. But any effort you may have made to thrwart it has not been taken serious enough, either due to lack of urgency. And somewhere along the line it became less and less important to enforce proper modes of dress and behavior and more and more important to allow “free expression”. Let's get a CLUE: Our mission as Christian leaders is to “perfect the saints for the work of ministry” (Ephesians 4:12) this must be perpetuated in order to insure future generations continue to stay the course laid out for us by the Holy Scriptures.

The result of a Transformational Leadership (see previous posts) environment on future generations is of paramount significance. A transformational leader seeks to cast vision for the future. He is a futurist. The vision of what can be must be passed on to the next generation. Considering the power relationships within leadership (Downward power of leader to subordinate, Upward power of the subordinate to the leader, Upward power of the leader to his superiors, Lateral power of the leader to his equals, and Downward power of the superiors over the leader), the leader will inculcate his philosophy of life and leadership downward to the coming generation. When the “vision” is caught and ingrained in the minds of those subordinate to the leader, a powerful thing happens, the progression and perpetuation of the organization is realized.

The great apostle Paul instructs Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:2 “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” In reality he is saying “The way I lead you into transforming your life is the way you are to lead others in transforming their lives. They in turn will lead others in transforming their lives, etc.” The potential is endless and awe inspiring. Each leader should be concerned about his/her legacy. A good leader is someone who makes their organization as strong as they can and prepares a successor to carry on. The leader must possess the understanding that “No matter how good he is, no leader can do it all alone.” He must begin to think of his finish soon after he begins and if possible begin to seek out and train his successor. This was strong point with Moses and his leadership in choosing and mentoring Joshua.

To gain a better “clue” of which I am speaking, all you really have to do is study the young people and children of a particular congregation. This will help you understand how they see congregational life. I challenge you to follow the children through the full life of the congregation … it will give definite insight on its future. Do they sit in total boredom? Do they leave the church after their eighteenth (18^th) birthday? How are they handling situations that come up in their lives? How do they face death and suffering? The fact is, they face these issues based on how effectively the leaders (Ministers, teachers, parents) have instructed and prepared them. Are the leaders transforming their lives? Are they leading in a way that helps the children to grow and learn and adapt to life situations?

In a very similar vein, what level of commitment do our young people show to the congregation? Are they merely attending services or are they actively participating in them. A Transformational leadership will seek to involve them in the life and direction of the church. They must invest in them in order to perpetuate the goals, aims, and objectives of the congregation. This will have a tremendous impact on their affective commitment to the congregation.

They will learn from a transformational leadership model that “People matter.”

Now you've got the CLUE!

Are You “One Dimensional”? … Create what you “want”!

2010-11-23T14:11:00.000-08:00

The transformational leader (see last post for definition) is needed in Christian leadership to help his/her organization reach the highest need they have which is to conform to the image of Christ. In the gospels and epistles, we find a number of things Christians should do i.e. love neighbors, be kind and gentle, preach the gospel, etc. However, at the root of everything we are commanded to do, is the call to “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5) A leader who envisions and inculcates the mind of Christ will encourage and help his followers become transformational leaders in their own respects as well.

A transformational leader realizes that one particular style of leadership may not appropriate for every situation. He/she therefore will employ a variety of styles to fit each occasion. This in fact is “transformational.” No one wants to be “one-dimensional.” By utilizing different styles of leadership the leader is teaching i.e. transforming his followers and helping them to make decisions using various methods and experiences.

The transformational leader should seek to build an environment where “life-change” and “life-touch” is possible and real needs are met and discovered. People must feel free enough to express their desires, thoughts, and goals in the open without fear of reprisals. One way of building this type of environment is through the art of “connection.” John Maxwell communicates this well in his writings. He states “Effective leaders know that you have to touch people’s hearts before you ask them for a hand.” When a leader connects, either publicly or privately he gives his followers the feeling that he truly wants to help them achieve their greatest potential. A very popular saying goes “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

The wise leader will take upon himself the responsibility of initiating direct contact because as a leader you must create the environment you want.

Now you have the CLUE!

Let Me Upgrade You! Leadership that matters ...

2010-11-16T07:55:00.000-08:00

Let me upgrade you!

In my studies in leadership I have found that there are many, many types of leadership. One type that I believe in and form my ministry around is Transformational Leadership.

Transformational Leadership is leadership that is concerned primarily with positive change in the person or organization. As a transformational leader, you must act as an encourager and nurture of people. You must help your followers reach their dreams and aspirations. Transformational leaders touch lives at the deepest level and seeks to change/transform their lives. Our Lord Jesus Christ was truly a transformational leader. He changed the lives of twelve ordinary men and they in turn, turned the world upside-down for his cause.

A look into many of our churches and organizatons today may reveal the absence of this type of life changing leadership. Many church ministers/pastors have become merely “temporary-feeders” and not “life changers” in that they spend the bulk of their time making deals (meeting immediate needs) with members for a desired outcome (meeting the minister or leaderships needs). This type of leadership can be utilized and is “Transactional Leadership.” A good leader will use a mix of both transactional and transformational leadership. Better organizations become better as their leader(s) become better. The leader who is lackluster will not produce the desired results of the organization and in the case of the church or religious organization, will not please God. Transformational leadership is perhaps the central key to developing a better organization. Jack Welch, former CEO of GE notes in his writings that leadership is more than just about the leader. He gives a list of certain things leaders do … Among them he says that leaders always and with persistence upgrade their team, using every encounter to evaluate, coach, and build self-confidence.

That in a nutshell is a “Transformational” style of leadership. He states that leaders have to make sure their people not only see the vision, but that they have to breathe it. This is done on a daily basis. Every contact, every conversation, every chance meeting is used to bring the best out of their people. This helps foster a better work and team environment thereby making the whole organization better. Who have you upgraded lately!

Now you have the CLUE!

Peace

Into the "synagogue" I went ... Let us reason II

2010-11-10T10:20:00.000-08:00

Now, I have been in the Lord’s church (church of Christ) for over 33 years … I’m a card carrying, charter member, mainline/traditional brother since the age of 12 … so you can imagine the inward response when I was asked to speak i.e. be the guest speaker at inner city church in the next city over from Hopewell. The minister of the church and I have been friends for more than a few years i.e. the connection began when our kids played football together and attended the same schools. We would often sit on the sidelines and chat about “this and that”. On several occasions he asked me in a friendly way something like “Hey Doc, when you gonna come speak for me … we don’t believe in denominations either.” I would always find a reason or excuse as to why I couldn’t do it. I wasn’t quite sure if he was testing me to get my response, or if he was earnestly interested in hearing what I had to say. He is a seminary trained minister, so I gathered he studied the various religious bodies in the U.S. to include the “churches of Christ”. He would ask and I would say “one of these days Doc.” Then I realized, “Why in the world am I hesitant … I mean if you speak the truth, it ought to stand anywhere you preach it!” My sermons are broadcast at least twice a week on cable and we are heard on the radio on Sunday afternoons, and I preach with the same fervor every week, and people in the community drop me a line or even a personal message to say they appreciate what I have to say. The date was set, the church informed, and the day arrived.

I stated in my last post about the synagogue … how the apostle Paul went into the synagogue to reason with the Jews (Acts 18:19). Now of course, today the “synagogue” for us does not represent exactly what it meant in their day per-say. The synagogues then were remnants of a fifteen hundred year old religion that was ordained and instituted by God himself, but whose time had come to an end. Paul went in to prove that that dispensation had concluded and that they were now in the Christian age! That being understood, our synagogue today will most likely be a “denomination” or some other group or place that we may enter to preach the word of God that may or may not be accepting of our message. (Also James uses the word in James 2:2 for "assembly")

The date arrived and all day I had a strange feeling that wouldn’t leave me for the better part of the day. Certainly I have preached in front of denominational preachers before at funerals and held nothing back; but this time I was to be the main/keynote speaker for the night! I certainly wasn’t afraid nor ashamed … I just wanted to follow God’s leading and speak a word for the Head of the church!

When I first mentioned this to the congregation, one of the members said “yeah, sic ‘em” … wow! I explained that that was not my intention because we have done enough of that both locally and nationally and we need to make headway for the cause of Christ! It is my intent to preach the gospel … present the facts of the church that Jesus died for and provide the entrance requirements for the kingdom of God!

We arrived that Tuesday night in the midst of the “praise and worship hour” i.e. choir, praise dancers, youth dancers, etc. and the members who accompanied me looked a little taken-aback, but they kept their composure and responded with sincere smiles of appreciation for their energy.

After a series of songs, and other remarks by the minister, I rose to the podium and proclaimed God’s word! Among my texts were John 17:20ff … I appealed to those who were “believers” to prayerfully consider the Lord’s earnest prayer for the church and the world to be one in His name and that we can only be one when we agree on his word and submit to His will, worship, and ways. I preached the text and extended the invitation to come to Christ by faith, repentance, confession, and baptism, by which one becomes a Christian.

As I took my seat and gave the microphone back to the minister, the prophetic words of Isaiah came to my mind: Isa 55:10-11

10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:

11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

The minister and I have agreed to keep the communication lines open and I could tell that his members (and he himself) appreciated our presence that night. All I ask is for the prayers of the righteous to avail much and that the door that was opened may remain open so further discussion and teaching can be achieved.

I, above all, was blessed with by this experience and will pray that I keep my eyes and ears open for further opportunities to share the gospel of Christ with this world (Rom. 1:16).

You’ve got the CLUE!

Peace.

Let us reason!

2010-11-09T07:15:00.000-08:00

Acts 18:20
19 And he came to Ephesus, and left them there; but he himself entered the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. (NKJV)

Synagogue ... an assemblage of persons; (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a Christian church:

Reason ... to say thoroughly, i.e. discuss (in argument or exhortation): dispute, preach (unto), reason (with), speak.

On Tuesday, November 9, 2010 I will enter the 'Synagogue' and 'reason' with and from the word of God to others who do not necessarily share my religious convictions ... I will blog about my experiences on Wednesday ... Stay tuned for the CLUE!

Standing at the Crossroads (Jeremiah 6:15-17)

2010-11-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

“This is what the LORD says: Stand at the crossroads and look. Ask which paths are the old, reliable paths. Ask which way leads to blessings. Live that way, and find a resting place for yourselves. But you said that you wouldn’t live that way.” Jeremiah 6:16

A striking comparison exists between God’s people of Jeremiah’s day and the people of world and the people of God today … Let's see ...

Judah’s condition is much like that of the world today:
1. They had No Shame - 15
2. They took No Stand - 16
3. They heard No Sound - 17

No Shame!
The world has no shame today! Anything goes … it’s ok to be whatever (gay, straight, both,, etc) … just as the people of Jeremiah’s day they have been lulled into complacency and have become insensitive to wrong … everyone says it’s your “God-given” right to be whoever you want to be!
The disrespect of authority has become commonplace i.e. the Presidential Office is blatantly disrespected … the man of God is often mistreated and abused … teachers who spend the better part of their day with our children are often threatened not only by the parents but by their own students. Even the officer of the law at times is hesitant to drive through some neighborhoods in the inner cities in America.

The movie and entertainment industry is seething with “in your face” lewd and lascivious behavior that would cause the most provocative burlesque dancer of yesteryear to blush in shame. Every other song or video is laced with a new brand of “take me as I am or leave me alone, I don’t care what you think” attitude that dares you to respond negatively.

The alternative lifestyle advocates gain more power and notoriety each and every year. Yes, the list of shameful acts portrayed on the large and small screen at any hour of the day is certainly shameful.

In Jeremiah’s day, God’s people were in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation that instead of changing and challenging they acquiesced and complied with the abominable acts of idol worship and immorality. Thus v. 15 again “they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush …”

It’s a sad state when the lifestyle you lead leads you to become so callous with sin … so heartless with iniquity … so unfeeling towards un-holiness …

And so the church, God’s church, the church of Christ must not partake in the shameless acts of the previous mentioned kind … it has to guard itself from the shame and degradation of the forces that would claim her purity … but there are many that like the people of Jeremiah’s day have little or no shame to their game!

We live in an age in church history where to some, the thought of shame never enters their minds … there are those perhaps here … in our fellowship that have a “catch me in you dare” attitude with their sinful state …

Many attend whenever they want … give whatever they want … shack-up with whomever they want … go wherever they want … take however much they want … all the while daring you or anybody to confront them with God’s word or your word! They’re hardened hearts and displayed on their chest like a badge of honor!
So we must guard our hearts to keep afresh the word of God and be open to correction and instruction from that same word of God!

No Stand!
The people in Jeremiah’s day … God’s people … Took No Stand.

They were encouraged to take a thoughtful introspection of their lives … they, like wayward travelers approaching a crossroads were admonished to Stand and See/Look and Ask for the “Old paths” … the “Good Way”. As a traveler must make a decision as to the next direction he was to take, so God’s people were instructed to peer into their past glory and inquire of the ways of their forefathers …

They were to reflect on the ways of the patriarchs … how they walked with God and God was their joy and protector … they were to reflect on the Mosaic tradition where God lead them through the Red Seas and by the dark places, the desert places and the places filled with death … they were to remember the sign of the stones of Joshua chapter 4

“That this may be a sign among you, that when your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying what mean ye by these stones? Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be a memorial unto the children of Israel forever” (Josh. 4:6-7)

It was a mandate of God to reflect on the days of old: Deut 32:7; Ex 13:14; Isa 46:9

As they stood at the crossroads they were to reach back and remember the stories of the mighty hand of God: Egyptian Bondage/Red Sea, Law/Ten Commandments, Pillar of cloud/fire in the wilderness, Walls of Jericho falling, the defeat of many nations, the great rein of King David, the Wisdom of Solomon, the chronicles of the many worthy kings … they had a great and glorious history to reflect on … BUT … they refused walk therein … they said “We will not walk therein … we will not follow in their footsteps … we will not live that way … we will not take a stand!” We will do it our way!

Even though their way lead to death and destruction and God’s way, the “old paths” led to “rest for their souls!”

Oh the similarities are frightening today … there are many at a crossroads right now … many standing there gazing and wondering which way to go! Many have been living out loud before all to see and God wants you to stop for a moment … God’s word is still the same today! “Stand, Look, and Ask” … reflect on the many blessings of the Lord on our forefathers.

Ask about some of the “Old paths/ways” … [Now I know there are some “Old ways” that need to be left back there] … but there are some “Old ways” that can help somebody today!
- Courting/dating
- Modest dress
- Marriage/raising children
- Faithfulness to the local body/church
- Respect for the church of God and the man of God

BUT, many today are just like the people in Jeremiah’s day “We will not hearken … we won’t walk that way! And so you find yourself without the rest and reassurance of God’s comfort – Mat. 11:28

No Sound!
In Jeremiah’s day … all of this made it difficult for them to Hear No Sound …

The watchmen sound went virtually unheard … the watchmen were those prophets, those servants of God sent with His message of warning:
Jer 25:4-5

4 And though the LORD has sent all his servants the prophets to you again and again, you have not listened or paid any attention.
NIV

The prophets were to speak like a “trumpet” … a loud and piercing sound … they were to sound out God’s message without holding back … Isa 58:1; Isa 40:9; Jer 1:7-10

The trumpet/voice was to be sounded with no fear or shame …

Remember Jesus’ response - Matt 3:7-10 (What a Trumpet!!)

7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. 9 And do not think you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
NIV

Stephen’s stinging rebuke during his sermon in Acts 7 cost him his life - Acts 7:51-53

The man of God today – the Preacher has been handed down through the centuries a Trumpet as well … I am to sound the trumpet of the gospel without addition nor subtraction … I am to stand flat-foot and bold on the word of God “In season and out of season” … Paul told Titus:
Titus 2:15

15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
KJV

He told Timothy “As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightiest charge some that they teach no other doctrine.” (1 Tim. 1:3)

BUT … even then, in Jeremiah’s day, as well as our day … They said “We will not hearken!”

2 Tim. 4:4 “And they shall turn away their ears from the truth …”

It has always been a dangerous thing not to hearken/listen to the word of God …

Because Judah refused to listen to the trumpet of God, God declared that He would “… bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it.” V.19

I think this is Clear … Lucid … and Unambiguous …

You've been Clued!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

Be back at ya real soon! Stay strong and be blessed.

Long lines for short thrills

2007-11-26T12:46:00.000-08:00

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! I had a geat idea the other day when I was watching the news! Well here it is ... I thought about going down to the local "Best Buy" and buying about 50 computers and cell phones and putting them on the stage at church and put signs around town advertising an electronics give-a-way! Sound good! (right) Of course not ... I would never do that. I just wanted to get you to think about a few things. 1). What makes people stand out in the cold early in the morning to go spend money. 2) Why don't they get upset and complain about being there? Could it be that they feel that by getting there early and even if they have to wait, the reward out-weighs the wait? Could it be our selfish nature to want to get fulfilled and satisfied? Could it be they have reason to believe that if they don't get there, someone else will get their spot? I'm not saying that it's wrong to stand out there ... but I wonder how many of those same people were standing in line waiting to get into church on Sunday morning. What God offers is so much more valuable than these "temporary" frills. Again, I'm not "hatin" ... just wondering. Your thoughts ...

To God be the glory!

2007-11-06T08:20:00.001-08:00

I have been looking around the net at some of the local church of christ websites and I must say that I am really impressed. We at Arlington Rd were among the first in the area to have a full-up website and we are back and better than ever. We should be up and running by months end (November 07). check it out: www.churchofchrist-arlingtonrd.com.

Today was an interesting day ...

2007-10-18T20:19:00.001-07:00

Today was an interesting day. All days are special above ground. Anyway, I got a chance to talk to someone who hears me on the radio weekly ... or at least a few times. He asked me some questions about the church of Christ and I was glad to answer. It's funny how you can explain your salvation experience with someone trying to get them to see things the bible way, and they claim they did things the same way ... for example, if I say that in the bible, all those who heard the word and believed the word, were immediately baptized and how you can't argue with the bible, their story always seems to change. Suddenly they change their tune and say "Yea, that's the way it happened to me too!" Hmmmn. Does not compute ...

Well, it's time ...

2007-10-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

Hello world! It's me. I guess it's about time to get on the ball and start blogging. So much will be said ... so much needs to be said. Right now I want to welcome you to my blog. I am the minister of the Arlington Rd Church of Christ - we meet 2106 Arlington Rd in the City of Hopewell, VA. "There is HOPE in the WELL". "We are the church were everybody is somebody and nobody is left behind. Every visitor is welcome and every neighbor is a friend. We exist to Seek the Lost, Support the Saved, and Serve the Savior!"

Our worship style is awesome - traditional, but untraditional. We love the WORD of God and study it seriously. We have Youth ministry, Senior and Singles ministries, education and prison ministries as well as TV and radio ministries. Come check us out. I will be putting our schedule up in the next few days with all of our events and services we offer and will offer in the future.

Peace