But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; Matthew 20:25-26 (NKJV) Are you in leadership anywhere in your life? Before you answer, consider former American President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s definition of leadership: “The art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” Parents, teachers and older siblings fall under this definition of leadership. Actually, we all do. Who hasn’t tried to motivate someone to do something? What’s interesting about President Eisenhower’s definition is he recognized that leaders need to be concerned with motivating those they’re influencing to want …

Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave— Matthew 20:26–27 (NKJV) Every person on this planet has been given the potential to be an incredible leader, no matter what their personality type. In fact, we are all called to lead. As John Maxwell puts it, leadership is just influence. We all have the opportunity to influence others. In fact, as Christians, we have both the responsibility and the amazing opportunity to influence others for Jesus. The problem is, few people think of themselves as leaders. Many assume leadership comes with a title, but that’s not true. In fact, titles …

So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17 (NKJV) Whenever we see a word mentioned twice in a row in the Bible, we need to pay special attention. So why does Romans 10:17 say that faith comes by hearing…and hearing? Well, faith takes more than just hearing. Hearing that God has promised you something doesn’t automatically result in a confident, unshakable belief that you have it. That kind of faith comes when you meditate on God’s Word and accept what it promises you. Faith is something you develop. But that doesn’t mean it’s hard. To have faith, you don’t have to fight and strive for it or follow a certain set of rigid guidelines. That’s not how God’s …

The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. James 5:16 (AMPC) Beyond a shadow of a doubt, incredible power is available to me today because of the prayers of my parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. I see the impact their prayers have had on my children as well. When you stand up and speak God’s Word over your loved ones, you impact generations. Satan would love to attack your family. Primarily, he wants to separate them from having a life-giving relationship with God. However, you hold a power that’s infinitely greater than any attack the enemy can muster. You have the opportunity to make God’s tremendous power available to those you love. You can defend and protect …

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6 (NKJV) When going to God with your request, there are two important things to remember. The first thing I want you to think about is the fact that God absolutely loves to bless you with His best. You can be confident that you’re not bothering Him; He wants you to ask. You don’t have to beg Him to help you. He wants to! Second, notice these two words in Philippians 4:6: with thanksgiving.  When bringing requests to God, it’s important to thank Him. We all appreciate gratitude. So does God, but that’s not the only reason He tells us to do it. When you …