"The Lord is my Sheperd; I shall not want". Psalm 23:1
The chairman is the highest ranking officer on the board of a corporation. Though there is a slight difference between the board chairman of a non-profit and a for-profit organization, the basic responsibilities are the same. The chairman presides over the meetings and provides the leadership to ensure that the organization achieves its mission in a fiscally responsible way. There are times however when this title is merely an honorary designation without any actual executive responsibility. This is especially the case with respect to some for-profits organizations. However in a non-profit environment the board chairman always has a fiscal obligation because the government requires non-profit entities to be particularly accountable to a board.
I have operated a non-profit organization for the past 13 years and have been blessed to have great individuals serve as chairman of our board; individuals that can hold me accountable and to whom I can run to for guidance and support. Individuals that I know beyond a shadow of a doubt have my best interest and the interest of the organization at heart. As great as these individuals have been there is no greater chairman than the Lord Jesus Christ. Whether or not you have an actual board, you need a chairman. Someone you can look to for guidance and accountability. Someone you can run to for support and encouragement. There is no greater chairman then Jesus. The very familiar Psalm 23 written by King David, where he describes God as his shepherd, is a great illustration of what we can expect of our Lord Jesus Christ as chairman of our board of directors. King David understood the importance of God as his chairman as he faced attacks from competing nations, the potential overthrow of his government from within, and even from his own character flaws.
He recognized that he needed a chairman he could rely upon for guidance, accountability, support and encouragement.
As you face the challenges of growing a kingdom business be encouraged by these words as you look to Jesus as the Chairman of your board. Make this a part of your business plan and mediate on it daily:
The Lord is my chairman; I shall not want (no matter the economic condition).
He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me besides still waters. He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness For his name's sake (after all it is His company).
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, (where there is competition, economic crises, limited cash flow, distrust, uncollected receivables, growing payables), I will fear no evil; for He is with me;
His rod and His staff comfort me (His rod and staff is used for discipline and protection but yields the fruit of comfort).
He prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies (He will cause you to prevail in the mist of your competitors and those haters who do not want you to succeed).
He anoints my head with oil; My cup runs over (there is an overflow of joy, gratitude and peace that passes all of your understanding once you have this knowledge that your Chairman Jesus will never leave you and never forsake you).
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and business; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Wow, now I understand why, when David had moral failure and his Chairman gave him the option of personal discipline by Him or by his enemies, he chose to be disciplined by his Chairman. I understand why he had great confidence when he went out to battle even as a young man going against a lion, bear, and a giant. I understand why, when faced with an overthrow of his government by his own son, he did not take matters into his own hands but trusted his Chairman to restore his kingdom.
Is the Lord your chairman? What business issues are you facing? What concerns have you been attempting to address on your own? Why don't you call a board meeting with God the father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and cast your cares upon them since you have the assurance that He cares for you. Keep this prayer in your office and use it to remind yourself during the difficult times who your chairman is and the assurances you have in His promises.
Copyright © 2009 Patrice Tsague ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Whole Foods CEO
This post may not have so much to do with BAM, but here is a CEO with a mission for his business for sure. Whole Foods CEO John Mackey gave an interview earlier this month to the WSJ, and references to it have popped up in a variety of places. I just think it's worth a read.
Among other things, Mackey says business has a noble purpose: providing needed goods and services, and also providing jobs--this is good for individuals and also for the economy. It's refreshing to hear of a CEO who is not taking an outrageous salary and who is concerned for the good of his employees (Whole Foods has been on the 100 Best Companies to Work For list for 12 years straight).
Among other things, Mackey says business has a noble purpose: providing needed goods and services, and also providing jobs--this is good for individuals and also for the economy. It's refreshing to hear of a CEO who is not taking an outrageous salary and who is concerned for the good of his employees (Whole Foods has been on the 100 Best Companies to Work For list for 12 years straight).
Monday, October 12, 2009
The 4 Principles of Leadership
Moses' father-in-law replied, "What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. Exodus 18:18-19
Does the world need another document written on leadership? So many people have written oceans books on every dimension of leadership that one can find. I definitely claim no unique revelation though I must obey my father and bring out that which He has given me. The success of every family, business and government depends solely on its leadership. There is no other greater position upon which rest the rise and fall of any institution. I believe that is why there can never be too much written or read on the subject, it is just that important.
Are Biblical Entrepreneurs leaders? If they are not, then who else can be? As a matter of fact I believe more people are leaders then we think. There are two types of leaders; born leaders and learned leaders. Though they are very few born leaders, most individuals are in position of leadership and as a result must learn how to lead. Position of leadership include: parent, older sibling, committee head, head of a business or organization, supervisor or manager, etc... All of us who find ourselves in any of these positions must take the responsibility to learn how to lead.
As for Biblical Entrepreneurs, like Moses we are called to lead our employees, customers and community from the bondage of an economic system that puts money above God, greed above love, and profits above people to a system that recognizes God as the owner and sovereign ruler of the universe and us are the stewards who must give Him an account for our service to humanity and our handling of His resources. Therefore, as Jethro reminded Moses, we must be reminded that we can not do it by ourselves. We must inspire the people around us to work with us to realize the vision the Lord has laid on our hearts. Leadership is the ability cast a clear vision and provide direction and guidance to others through your example and influence. In order to be an effective leader they are four basic principles that you must continuously walk in.
The principles are as follows:
1. Leadership is service - effective leadership begins with service. Every leader is a servant but every servant is not necessary a leader. To serve is to put the needs of others before your own. The distinction between a leader and a servant is that a servant is only responsible to fulfill an assignment or project while a leader must not only serve but also assume the position of authority and the responsibility of oversight. Faithful service leads to greater responsibilities.
2. Leaders must be responsible - as effective leaders serve faithfully they are rewarded with greater responsibilities. To be responsible is to accept the demands to serve honorably without superior authority and oversight. Effective leaders do not need on site supervision but rather they are always mindful of the responsibilities bestow upon them. If a responsible leader is to be effective he or she must delegate.
3. Leaders must delegate - A responsible leader is able to delegate effectively to ensure that work gets done, without relinquishing his/her responsibility. The more faithful a leader is in their responsibilities the more responsibilities they are given therefore being able to delegate effectively is necessary for them to be able to handle their growing responsibilities. To delegate means to transfer the control of an assignment or project to someone, as well as the ability and authority to carry it out without relinquishing your responsibility. Remember you can not delegate something you have not fully taken responsibility for and delegation does not relinquish you of your responsibilities. Effective delegation leads to accountability.
4. Leadership accountability - Everyone is accountable to someone; effective leaders must give an account and they must demand account from those who report to them. To be accountable is to assume responsibility to achieve certain goals and provide ongoing reports on the status of the goals. Without proper accountability, projects are incomplete and goals go unmet.
How effective are you in your current leadership of your staff and associates? Review each of these principles and allow the Lord to direct you on how you can improve on your current leadership.
Copyright © 2009 Patrice Tsague
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible. -->
Does the world need another document written on leadership? So many people have written oceans books on every dimension of leadership that one can find. I definitely claim no unique revelation though I must obey my father and bring out that which He has given me. The success of every family, business and government depends solely on its leadership. There is no other greater position upon which rest the rise and fall of any institution. I believe that is why there can never be too much written or read on the subject, it is just that important.
Are Biblical Entrepreneurs leaders? If they are not, then who else can be? As a matter of fact I believe more people are leaders then we think. There are two types of leaders; born leaders and learned leaders. Though they are very few born leaders, most individuals are in position of leadership and as a result must learn how to lead. Position of leadership include: parent, older sibling, committee head, head of a business or organization, supervisor or manager, etc... All of us who find ourselves in any of these positions must take the responsibility to learn how to lead.
As for Biblical Entrepreneurs, like Moses we are called to lead our employees, customers and community from the bondage of an economic system that puts money above God, greed above love, and profits above people to a system that recognizes God as the owner and sovereign ruler of the universe and us are the stewards who must give Him an account for our service to humanity and our handling of His resources. Therefore, as Jethro reminded Moses, we must be reminded that we can not do it by ourselves. We must inspire the people around us to work with us to realize the vision the Lord has laid on our hearts. Leadership is the ability cast a clear vision and provide direction and guidance to others through your example and influence. In order to be an effective leader they are four basic principles that you must continuously walk in.
The principles are as follows:
1. Leadership is service - effective leadership begins with service. Every leader is a servant but every servant is not necessary a leader. To serve is to put the needs of others before your own. The distinction between a leader and a servant is that a servant is only responsible to fulfill an assignment or project while a leader must not only serve but also assume the position of authority and the responsibility of oversight. Faithful service leads to greater responsibilities.
2. Leaders must be responsible - as effective leaders serve faithfully they are rewarded with greater responsibilities. To be responsible is to accept the demands to serve honorably without superior authority and oversight. Effective leaders do not need on site supervision but rather they are always mindful of the responsibilities bestow upon them. If a responsible leader is to be effective he or she must delegate.
3. Leaders must delegate - A responsible leader is able to delegate effectively to ensure that work gets done, without relinquishing his/her responsibility. The more faithful a leader is in their responsibilities the more responsibilities they are given therefore being able to delegate effectively is necessary for them to be able to handle their growing responsibilities. To delegate means to transfer the control of an assignment or project to someone, as well as the ability and authority to carry it out without relinquishing your responsibility. Remember you can not delegate something you have not fully taken responsibility for and delegation does not relinquish you of your responsibilities. Effective delegation leads to accountability.
4. Leadership accountability - Everyone is accountable to someone; effective leaders must give an account and they must demand account from those who report to them. To be accountable is to assume responsibility to achieve certain goals and provide ongoing reports on the status of the goals. Without proper accountability, projects are incomplete and goals go unmet.
How effective are you in your current leadership of your staff and associates? Review each of these principles and allow the Lord to direct you on how you can improve on your current leadership.
Copyright © 2009 Patrice Tsague
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible. -->
Sunday, October 11, 2009
RCE's Tom Stansbury receives award
RCE Entrepreneur-in-Residence Tom Stansbury was honored as 2009 Biblical Entrepreneurship Teacher of the Year at NPIM's Annual Banquet.
Tom taught Biblical Entrepreneurship in Ukraine and continues to be a strong supporter of Ivan Papish, the director of RCE's daughter center in Ternopil Ukraine. Tom is also a raving fan of the Africa Initiative (formerly the Africa Project) and has a passion for transforming the nations through business.
We're proud he was chosen to receive this award.
Congratulations Tom!
Tom taught Biblical Entrepreneurship in Ukraine and continues to be a strong supporter of Ivan Papish, the director of RCE's daughter center in Ternopil Ukraine. Tom is also a raving fan of the Africa Initiative (formerly the Africa Project) and has a passion for transforming the nations through business.
We're proud he was chosen to receive this award.
Congratulations Tom!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Fight the Good Fight
" Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold of eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses." I Timothy 6:12
In these volatile economic times, some individuals and businesses can be tempted to be distracted from their primary mission or to give up on their assignments altogether. They ask themselves, "Why continue when the forecast looks so bleak and the indicators such as rising unemployment, negative growth, foreclosures, decreased sale revenues, and much more are not very encouraging?" It is in these times that Kingdom businessmen and women need to remember that they started their businesses to meet market needs for profit while fulfilling the Great Commission in the marketplace.
If the focus of your business has become simply to make money, or if your business model is purely transactional, your business could falter during these tight financial times. Your business must promise the delivery of a product or service that meets clear needs in people's lives with a passion, or you will not survive these tough economic times. You may ask yourself, "Why am I doing this?" or "Is there a higher purpose than just making money?" My question to you is: are you involved in the good fight?
Life is a fight and no matter what you are doing you are fighting, either for something or against something. You have to make sure that you are fighting for the right reasons and against the right enemy. The good fight is a battle against the works of darkness for the soul and destiny of humanity. In the marketplace, this battle is waged through the venue of commerce.
Great battles are won or lost not based on the might of an army, but based on the magnitude of the mission and the selflessness of the army's purpose. If an army goes to war just for the treasures of victory and the joy of destroying an enemy, the soldiers will not remain inspired during the difficult times of the war. If, however, their mission is significant and their cause is greater then themselves, then no matter how difficult the war, they are prepared to die for what they are fighting for and that gives them a great advantage.
This is a time to reflect on the reasons you entered into business in the first place. Review your purpose and mission and ensure that it is for a cause bigger than yourself, then realign your activities with your purpose and mission.
Those who are engaged in the good fight cannot lose. The fight was already won at Calvary by our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus Christ. The battle is not ours. It is the Lord's. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12).
What are you fighting for? Make sure you are fighting the good fight. Then you will have the stamina to make wise business decisions in tough times that will produce profitable physical and eternal dividends.
Copyright © 2008 Patrice Tsague ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
In these volatile economic times, some individuals and businesses can be tempted to be distracted from their primary mission or to give up on their assignments altogether. They ask themselves, "Why continue when the forecast looks so bleak and the indicators such as rising unemployment, negative growth, foreclosures, decreased sale revenues, and much more are not very encouraging?" It is in these times that Kingdom businessmen and women need to remember that they started their businesses to meet market needs for profit while fulfilling the Great Commission in the marketplace.
If the focus of your business has become simply to make money, or if your business model is purely transactional, your business could falter during these tight financial times. Your business must promise the delivery of a product or service that meets clear needs in people's lives with a passion, or you will not survive these tough economic times. You may ask yourself, "Why am I doing this?" or "Is there a higher purpose than just making money?" My question to you is: are you involved in the good fight?
Life is a fight and no matter what you are doing you are fighting, either for something or against something. You have to make sure that you are fighting for the right reasons and against the right enemy. The good fight is a battle against the works of darkness for the soul and destiny of humanity. In the marketplace, this battle is waged through the venue of commerce.
Great battles are won or lost not based on the might of an army, but based on the magnitude of the mission and the selflessness of the army's purpose. If an army goes to war just for the treasures of victory and the joy of destroying an enemy, the soldiers will not remain inspired during the difficult times of the war. If, however, their mission is significant and their cause is greater then themselves, then no matter how difficult the war, they are prepared to die for what they are fighting for and that gives them a great advantage.
This is a time to reflect on the reasons you entered into business in the first place. Review your purpose and mission and ensure that it is for a cause bigger than yourself, then realign your activities with your purpose and mission.
Those who are engaged in the good fight cannot lose. The fight was already won at Calvary by our Commander-in-Chief, Jesus Christ. The battle is not ours. It is the Lord's. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12).
What are you fighting for? Make sure you are fighting the good fight. Then you will have the stamina to make wise business decisions in tough times that will produce profitable physical and eternal dividends.
Copyright © 2008 Patrice Tsague ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
Monday, September 21, 2009
We have won!
And He said to them, "What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you walk and are sad? Luke 24:17.
To win means to obtain the advantage over the opposition; to successful achieve the goals and objectives set forth. When our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was sent to earth by His Father, His assignment was to give up His life in exchange for the salvation of all those who would believe in Him and establish a family of believes called the body of Christ who would continue carry out His message. To accomplish His mission He recruited 12 disciples who He trained and equipped to carry out His message throughout the earth after his return to His father. Though one of the disciples would betray Him which was a part of the plan He would accomplish his objectives. After His death and resurrection, He finds His disciples perplexed, sad and confused because it was the third day and they had not seen Him, thus concluding that the goal that he set forth was not accomplished. He did not rise as He said He would. Everything He taught us was not true. What are we to do now?
As they are having their pity party; Jesus Himself draws near them and begins to listen in. "Why are you so sad?" He asked. "Why are you talking so negatively?" They respond by reciting to Him what happened, how the Christ was supposed to rise after His death, but it did not happened. He then responded by rebuking them and reminding them of the scriptures and then revealing Himself to them as the risen Christ. Here it was, Jesus' disciples were walking around defeated and sad, talking negatively in unbelief, thinking they had lost when they had actually won.
Many of us may currently have the same attitude; because of what we are seeing, hearing and experiencing in the current crises we conclude it is over. I have news for you: we have won. Yes wining is an attitude, and the one what has a wining attitude will be the ultimate winner. Jesus said in John 16:33 "in this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world, and the Psalmist said in Psalm 34:19, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all". No matter what you are going through right now, you must maintain the attitude of a winner because a high price was paid for your victory.
Maintain a wining attitude is not easy given the fact that though we are called in scripture to live by faith many of us are continuously led by sight. We allow what we see, feel and experience to influence our state of being thus determine the outcome of our objectives.
In order to maintain a wining attitude you must to the following:
1. Focus on your relationship with the Lord - the most precious and valued asset you have is your relationship with the Lord; do not allow anything to interfere with that.
2. Keep a consistent diet of the Word of God through personal study and hearing the word - Our attitude is shaped by the information we receive, put the word of God in you through your personal devotions and hearing bible based teachings because faith comes by hearing.
3. Maintain a steady prayer life - pray without ceasing; a constant communication with your father is essential to achieving a kingdom assignment
4. Keep your eyes on the prize - Remember your ultimate reward is not here but in eternity.
5. Stay on mission - Your mission is your life, do not confuse your mission with your strategy
6. Change strategies when necessary - You must be flexible and adjust your plans based on new information and circumstances. This is not given up. You must never give up.
7. Walk by faith and not by sight - do not allow external circumstances to influence your feelings and emotions. Be direct by your internal belief and the word of God.
These seven things will keep you on the winning side every time. Remember in spite of how you feel and what you are going through, we have won. All you have to do now is execute. As you executive stay away from losers and surround yourself with other winners. A loser is someone who allows their circumstances to determine their outcome and maintains a negative and defeated attitude that is contagious while a winner is someone who has an attitude of success and knows that no matter what they have the advantage because they already won.
Copyright © 2008 Patrice Tsague
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
To win means to obtain the advantage over the opposition; to successful achieve the goals and objectives set forth. When our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was sent to earth by His Father, His assignment was to give up His life in exchange for the salvation of all those who would believe in Him and establish a family of believes called the body of Christ who would continue carry out His message. To accomplish His mission He recruited 12 disciples who He trained and equipped to carry out His message throughout the earth after his return to His father. Though one of the disciples would betray Him which was a part of the plan He would accomplish his objectives. After His death and resurrection, He finds His disciples perplexed, sad and confused because it was the third day and they had not seen Him, thus concluding that the goal that he set forth was not accomplished. He did not rise as He said He would. Everything He taught us was not true. What are we to do now?
As they are having their pity party; Jesus Himself draws near them and begins to listen in. "Why are you so sad?" He asked. "Why are you talking so negatively?" They respond by reciting to Him what happened, how the Christ was supposed to rise after His death, but it did not happened. He then responded by rebuking them and reminding them of the scriptures and then revealing Himself to them as the risen Christ. Here it was, Jesus' disciples were walking around defeated and sad, talking negatively in unbelief, thinking they had lost when they had actually won.
Many of us may currently have the same attitude; because of what we are seeing, hearing and experiencing in the current crises we conclude it is over. I have news for you: we have won. Yes wining is an attitude, and the one what has a wining attitude will be the ultimate winner. Jesus said in John 16:33 "in this world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world, and the Psalmist said in Psalm 34:19, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous but the Lord delivers him out of them all". No matter what you are going through right now, you must maintain the attitude of a winner because a high price was paid for your victory.
Maintain a wining attitude is not easy given the fact that though we are called in scripture to live by faith many of us are continuously led by sight. We allow what we see, feel and experience to influence our state of being thus determine the outcome of our objectives.
In order to maintain a wining attitude you must to the following:
1. Focus on your relationship with the Lord - the most precious and valued asset you have is your relationship with the Lord; do not allow anything to interfere with that.
2. Keep a consistent diet of the Word of God through personal study and hearing the word - Our attitude is shaped by the information we receive, put the word of God in you through your personal devotions and hearing bible based teachings because faith comes by hearing.
3. Maintain a steady prayer life - pray without ceasing; a constant communication with your father is essential to achieving a kingdom assignment
4. Keep your eyes on the prize - Remember your ultimate reward is not here but in eternity.
5. Stay on mission - Your mission is your life, do not confuse your mission with your strategy
6. Change strategies when necessary - You must be flexible and adjust your plans based on new information and circumstances. This is not given up. You must never give up.
7. Walk by faith and not by sight - do not allow external circumstances to influence your feelings and emotions. Be direct by your internal belief and the word of God.
These seven things will keep you on the winning side every time. Remember in spite of how you feel and what you are going through, we have won. All you have to do now is execute. As you executive stay away from losers and surround yourself with other winners. A loser is someone who allows their circumstances to determine their outcome and maintains a negative and defeated attitude that is contagious while a winner is someone who has an attitude of success and knows that no matter what they have the advantage because they already won.
Copyright © 2008 Patrice Tsague
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden." Matthew 5:14
Imagine you wake up during the night and there is no light in your house because of a storm which knocked the electricity out. You open your curtains hoping that the light outside the window will light up the house but there is no light on the outside either. The entire neighborhood has no light. The storm was unexpected and no one was prepared. No candles, no lamps, no flash lights. One by one, your neighbors begin to get up and notice the same thing, they begin to worry. It is dark, damp and no one has a light. The entire neighborhood is concerned and scared. Without light people cannot see where they are going, the elderly, the children and the handicapped are at risk of hurting themselves. Without light thieves can easily break into houses and stores because no one will notice them. Without light someone can get hurt in his own house because he cannot see where he is going. Imagine that this lasts for days, weeks, months and years. Of course overtime people will develop alternatives to illuminate the night until the real light comes back but no matter how great the alternative, it will only provide a temporary fix until the real light appears.
When Jesus appeared on the scene over 2000 years ago to begin His public ministry, He found Himself in the midst of darkness; the poor faced economic uncertainty, the church and state were corrupt and oppressive, and entrepreneurs were greedy and manipulative. There was complete darkness. Although temporary lights provided direction until His appearance, Jesus, the real Light, was now here. As followers came to Him for answers concerning their conditions and how to address the problems of their day within the government, church and economy; His response was not an escape plan from the world nor ammunition to overthrow the government and church leaders, rather He reminded them that they are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Jesus recognized that the reason the world was in such darkness was because there was no light. He encouraged them to not run and hide from a world full of darkness but to make themselves visible to all by the works that they do. Over 2000 years later, much has not changed; we still face economic uncertainty, corruption, oppression, and a marketplace full of greed and manipulation. The consequences are mortgage crises, bankruptcy and corporate bailout by the government. The marketplace is in darkness and in need of light.
Light is something that enlightens and illuminates, and provides direction and awareness. Biblical Entrepreneurs and kingdom businesses are the light of the marketplace. Our economy is facing tremendous turbulence - illustrated by the mortgage and financial crises - and the only hope seems to be government bailout. We all know that the government cannot solve market problems; all it can do is bandage the problems or provide a short fix. Solutions to permanently address market problems must come from the market and not the government. The role of government is to provide sound economic policies that are market friendly. Since the solution of the market crisis must come from the market and not the government, Biblical Entrepreneurs and kingdom businesses must provide leadership to solve the problems of the market. We are the light of the world; the reason why there is darkness in the marketplace, causing uncertainty and financial crisis, is because we are not letting our light shine. Our light must not be kept under a bushel nor hidden. This is the moment to let our light so shine before men so they can see our good works and glorify our Lord who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Are you letting your light shine in your industry?
Copyright © 2008 Patrice Tsague ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
Imagine you wake up during the night and there is no light in your house because of a storm which knocked the electricity out. You open your curtains hoping that the light outside the window will light up the house but there is no light on the outside either. The entire neighborhood has no light. The storm was unexpected and no one was prepared. No candles, no lamps, no flash lights. One by one, your neighbors begin to get up and notice the same thing, they begin to worry. It is dark, damp and no one has a light. The entire neighborhood is concerned and scared. Without light people cannot see where they are going, the elderly, the children and the handicapped are at risk of hurting themselves. Without light thieves can easily break into houses and stores because no one will notice them. Without light someone can get hurt in his own house because he cannot see where he is going. Imagine that this lasts for days, weeks, months and years. Of course overtime people will develop alternatives to illuminate the night until the real light comes back but no matter how great the alternative, it will only provide a temporary fix until the real light appears.
When Jesus appeared on the scene over 2000 years ago to begin His public ministry, He found Himself in the midst of darkness; the poor faced economic uncertainty, the church and state were corrupt and oppressive, and entrepreneurs were greedy and manipulative. There was complete darkness. Although temporary lights provided direction until His appearance, Jesus, the real Light, was now here. As followers came to Him for answers concerning their conditions and how to address the problems of their day within the government, church and economy; His response was not an escape plan from the world nor ammunition to overthrow the government and church leaders, rather He reminded them that they are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. Jesus recognized that the reason the world was in such darkness was because there was no light. He encouraged them to not run and hide from a world full of darkness but to make themselves visible to all by the works that they do. Over 2000 years later, much has not changed; we still face economic uncertainty, corruption, oppression, and a marketplace full of greed and manipulation. The consequences are mortgage crises, bankruptcy and corporate bailout by the government. The marketplace is in darkness and in need of light.
Light is something that enlightens and illuminates, and provides direction and awareness. Biblical Entrepreneurs and kingdom businesses are the light of the marketplace. Our economy is facing tremendous turbulence - illustrated by the mortgage and financial crises - and the only hope seems to be government bailout. We all know that the government cannot solve market problems; all it can do is bandage the problems or provide a short fix. Solutions to permanently address market problems must come from the market and not the government. The role of government is to provide sound economic policies that are market friendly. Since the solution of the market crisis must come from the market and not the government, Biblical Entrepreneurs and kingdom businesses must provide leadership to solve the problems of the market. We are the light of the world; the reason why there is darkness in the marketplace, causing uncertainty and financial crisis, is because we are not letting our light shine. Our light must not be kept under a bushel nor hidden. This is the moment to let our light so shine before men so they can see our good works and glorify our Lord who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Are you letting your light shine in your industry?
Copyright © 2008 Patrice Tsague ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Recession-Proof Living
"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Romans 8:35
A recession is a significant decline in general economic activity that extends over a period of time, usually two consecutive quarters. The US economy faces recessions almost every 10 years but they do not last long. Signs of recessions include: an above the norm increase in the unemployment rate, two consecutive quarters of declining GDP, less business activities that last at least three months, personal income decline, and increase in the prices of consumer goods. If not dealt with, a recession can turn into a depression. To protect yourself from financial failure during an economic recession you must minimize your spending, increase your saving, remain consistent in your giving, pray without ceasing, and stay in the Word of God. Though Christians are not immune to economic recessions, we have a competitive advantage since we can tap into the supernatural.
Worse than a natural recession though, is a spiritual recession. A spiritual recession is a significant decline in spiritual activities over a period of time. The fruit of this recession is often anxiety, fear and doubt. Like the economic recession, if not dealt with, a spiritual recession can turn into a depression. A spiritual depression is a spiritual and mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a loss of hope. Avoid a spiritual depression at all cost. To avoid it, you must make sure you do not get into a spiritual recession; if you do, you must deal with it as soon as possible. The signs of a spiritual recession are: decline in your devotional life and prayer, decrease in your giving and church involvement, and a longing to isolate yourself from other believers. How do you have a recession-proof life? If you live a spiritual recession-proof life, you will not have to worry about the economic recession because you will either be immune to it or prepared to handle it.
Here are 7 things to do to live a recession-proof life:
Stay in the Word
The Word of God will give you hope, wisdom, clarity, and insight to deal with every situation that you face in every aspect of your life. Maintain a daily devotion that is designed to get the Word of God into your spirit. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8
Pray without ceasing
Prayer is direct communication to the throne room of God to make petitions and requests and give thanks for all He has done and is doing in our lives. It is essential because it enables us to address current problems and future problems before they occur. Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. I Thessalonians 5:17-18
Take care of your family
You may say, "What does taking care of my family have to do with living a recession-proof life?" Well, the reality is, if God views you as worse than an unbeliever you will not be in favor with Him. If you are not in favor with God then you are in trouble. Also at the end of the day, the only people who will be there for you through thick and thin are members of your family. If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. I Timothy 5:8
Do not forsake assembling with other believers
It is amazing how the devil uses isolation as a strategy to trap and manipulate believers and bring confusion into their lives. No matter how you feel, never isolate yourself from others; stay committed to a local assembly and to a network of other believers with like minds and common interests. Human beings are relational beings. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:25
Exercise and eat healthy
Most believers get so focused on eternal things that they forget they live in a physical body. Some even believe that exercise and maintaining a proper diet is not an important spiritual activity. Scripture puts a greater emphasis on spiritual virtues such as the fruit of the Spirit than it does on our bodies, but it recognizes the importance of taking care of our bodies through exercise and proper diet. The lack of exercise and maintaining a proper diet will lead to physical and mental health issues which will contribute to a spiritual recession. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. I Timothy 4:8
Know the state of your resources
Nothing can bring us into a spiritual recession like finances. Some people are so heavenly minded that they have become no earthly good. You need finances to handle most things here on the earth. Finances are as critical to your participation in the daily economy as blood is to your body. The lack of finances can bring you into a spiritual recession. Take proper control over your finances and become the steward God intends you to become. Do not ignore this area. Do not think that as long as you are praying and reading your Bible it will take care of itself. God has given you a mind, use it. Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations. Proverbs 27:23-24
Count the cost and finish
Believe it or not, unfinished projects and activities are a great cause of recessions. You were created to fulfill your vows, you were created to maintain integrity, you were created to finish, and you were created in the image and likeness of God. Just as God cannot ignore unfinished projects without violating who He is, neither can you. Many people fall into recessions because they are overwhelmed by the amount of unfinished projects and activities that require their attention. To avoid this, you must count the cost. Make sure that before you commit yourself to anything, you have enough spiritual and physical resources to finish it. "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, 'This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.' " Luke 14:28-30
Copyright © 2009 Patrice Tsague ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
A recession is a significant decline in general economic activity that extends over a period of time, usually two consecutive quarters. The US economy faces recessions almost every 10 years but they do not last long. Signs of recessions include: an above the norm increase in the unemployment rate, two consecutive quarters of declining GDP, less business activities that last at least three months, personal income decline, and increase in the prices of consumer goods. If not dealt with, a recession can turn into a depression. To protect yourself from financial failure during an economic recession you must minimize your spending, increase your saving, remain consistent in your giving, pray without ceasing, and stay in the Word of God. Though Christians are not immune to economic recessions, we have a competitive advantage since we can tap into the supernatural.
Worse than a natural recession though, is a spiritual recession. A spiritual recession is a significant decline in spiritual activities over a period of time. The fruit of this recession is often anxiety, fear and doubt. Like the economic recession, if not dealt with, a spiritual recession can turn into a depression. A spiritual depression is a spiritual and mental state characterized by a pessimistic sense of inadequacy and a loss of hope. Avoid a spiritual depression at all cost. To avoid it, you must make sure you do not get into a spiritual recession; if you do, you must deal with it as soon as possible. The signs of a spiritual recession are: decline in your devotional life and prayer, decrease in your giving and church involvement, and a longing to isolate yourself from other believers. How do you have a recession-proof life? If you live a spiritual recession-proof life, you will not have to worry about the economic recession because you will either be immune to it or prepared to handle it.
Here are 7 things to do to live a recession-proof life:
Stay in the Word
The Word of God will give you hope, wisdom, clarity, and insight to deal with every situation that you face in every aspect of your life. Maintain a daily devotion that is designed to get the Word of God into your spirit. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8
Pray without ceasing
Prayer is direct communication to the throne room of God to make petitions and requests and give thanks for all He has done and is doing in our lives. It is essential because it enables us to address current problems and future problems before they occur. Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. I Thessalonians 5:17-18
Take care of your family
You may say, "What does taking care of my family have to do with living a recession-proof life?" Well, the reality is, if God views you as worse than an unbeliever you will not be in favor with Him. If you are not in favor with God then you are in trouble. Also at the end of the day, the only people who will be there for you through thick and thin are members of your family. If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. I Timothy 5:8
Do not forsake assembling with other believers
It is amazing how the devil uses isolation as a strategy to trap and manipulate believers and bring confusion into their lives. No matter how you feel, never isolate yourself from others; stay committed to a local assembly and to a network of other believers with like minds and common interests. Human beings are relational beings. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:25
Exercise and eat healthy
Most believers get so focused on eternal things that they forget they live in a physical body. Some even believe that exercise and maintaining a proper diet is not an important spiritual activity. Scripture puts a greater emphasis on spiritual virtues such as the fruit of the Spirit than it does on our bodies, but it recognizes the importance of taking care of our bodies through exercise and proper diet. The lack of exercise and maintaining a proper diet will lead to physical and mental health issues which will contribute to a spiritual recession. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. I Timothy 4:8
Know the state of your resources
Nothing can bring us into a spiritual recession like finances. Some people are so heavenly minded that they have become no earthly good. You need finances to handle most things here on the earth. Finances are as critical to your participation in the daily economy as blood is to your body. The lack of finances can bring you into a spiritual recession. Take proper control over your finances and become the steward God intends you to become. Do not ignore this area. Do not think that as long as you are praying and reading your Bible it will take care of itself. God has given you a mind, use it. Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations. Proverbs 27:23-24
Count the cost and finish
Believe it or not, unfinished projects and activities are a great cause of recessions. You were created to fulfill your vows, you were created to maintain integrity, you were created to finish, and you were created in the image and likeness of God. Just as God cannot ignore unfinished projects without violating who He is, neither can you. Many people fall into recessions because they are overwhelmed by the amount of unfinished projects and activities that require their attention. To avoid this, you must count the cost. Make sure that before you commit yourself to anything, you have enough spiritual and physical resources to finish it. "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, 'This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.' " Luke 14:28-30
Copyright © 2009 Patrice Tsague ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Scripture quotations are taken from the King James Version of the Bible.
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