How to Avoid Drought in Your Business

Many businesses are experiencing a slowdown due to the corona virus pandemic. In such distressing times, it is easy to feel discouraged and overwhelmed. However, what the enemy means for harm, God can turn around for your good.

 

In the 1860s, Mark Twin described Palestine–now Israel–as “a desolate country given over wholly to weeds.” The Negev Desert in Israel’s southern region accounts for half of the land mass. In 1948, the Jewish nation was born and has since become one of the world’s leader in agriculture. How can a desolate wasteland become a thriving nation in which 90% of its food supply is locally grown?

 

1. Creative thinking. Plato the Greek philosopher said, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” When we are faced with a challenging situation, we can either conform or confront. Israel’s success in agriculture started with innovation. Your brain is the most valuable asset in your business. You have the freedom to think. You can offer products and services to your customers in ways that others cannot through creative thinking.

 

2. Outsource. One of the keys to Israel’s agricultural achievement is outsourcing its labor force. Did you know that Israel has a contract with the government of Thailand who provide laborers to work on their farms? When they return home, they bring these success methods back to their country. It is a win-win situation for both countries. Can you identify parts in your business where you can outsource? Do only what others cannot do and let the experts handle the rest!

 

3. Embrace technology. One of Israel’s success secrets lies in the implementation of high-tech drip and micro-irrigation. If they had continued using conventional irrigation methods, it would never have worked in the vast deserts. Likewise, we are living in a fast-changing world. The good news is that technology can help you better serve your clients. Are there any areas in your business where you can automate and let technology take over?

 

4. Find a niche market. If you are not comfortable with high-tech, focus on high-touch. Do not try to cater to everyone. In 1979, Israel’s agriculture represented 6% of GDP. In 2017, that number shrunk to approximately 2.3%. Israeli farmers are not trying to drive the nation’s economy, but they produce enough to cater to their own population. They do not have to import basic food. What about your business? Can you provide a more personalized service? Can you reach out to a more specific group of clients?

 

It was a lazy Friday afternoon when Diane got a call from a distraught woman who was sobbing on the phone, “I’m getting married tomorrow. My wedding dress was supposed to be delivered by noon but it’s 3:30 PM now. Can you please help me?” Diane comforted the young lady and promised to locate the package. She successfully found it in Detroit, more than 300 miles away from where the young woman lived. Her supervisors had gone home for the weekend and there was no one else to ask for help. So Diane found a Cessna pilot to pick up and then fly the wedding dress to Wilmington, IN.

 

On Monday morning, Diane got a call from the new bride who thanked her profusely while on her honeymoon to Mexico. Undoubtedly, it cost the company a large sum to deliver that package but here’s the beauty of the story. At the wedding, the bride told the guests how her wedding gown arrived just in time. Word spread quickly. There were high-powered executives in attendance who asked their employees to learn more about this exceptional delivery service. Soon they began to use them for all their deliveries. Today FedEx covers 220 countries and thousands of service centers globally.

 

It all started because Diane took a personal interest in one customer, providing high-touch service, and the rest just followed. If you focus on high-touch customer service, your business could reach great heights of success as well.

 

5. Make God your CEO. I believe the main reason for Israel’s success is because God blesses them. They are His chosen people. You, too, are handpicked and elected by God to do business. Listen to God’s voice and let Him guide you. When He leads, you will take new ground. One client can make up for your yearly revenue. Expand your mindset. If you can see it, you can achieve it. God is breathing life in your direction. Get ready for a stimulus package from heaven prepared exclusively for you. Can you thank Him for it? If so, I believe your business will continue to prosper and you will become a blessing to others.

 

"Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes” (Isaiah 54:2 NIV).

 

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Supernatural Reversal

We all go through loss, discouragement, and defeat. Sometimes we lose our health, the stock market investments, or a friend who walks away without a reason. The good news is that what you have lost is not always permanent. God is about to turn things around for you suddenly!

I recently ordered a pair of jeans online. When I went to pick them up from a retail store, it wasn’t the right one. I asked the clerk to cancel the order. He did it without a fuss and returned the funds back to my account. I realize that life is more complicated than that, but I wonder how many of us do the complete opposite? We tend to easily accept negative situations, or a crisis involving our health, family, or finances. The Scripture says, “The enemy comes to kill, steal, and destroy.” It also says, “If a thief is caught, he must pay back seven times what he stole” (Proverbs 6:31). So, whatever the enemy has stolen from you, you can reclaim it seven times over with penalty and interest!

The losses you suffered have not been fair. You may not see how things could ever improve again. You do not know how your investments will bounce back. You do not see how a relationship could be restored. The good news is that you do not have to know because God already does! He is initiating a supernatural reversal. Right now, He is working behind the scenes, lining things up in your favor. He is bringing the right people across your path. He is opening doors that no one can shut. You may have written off your future, but God does not abort a dream. Nor does He change His mind. What He started; He will finish. All you have to do is believe and thank Him for it!

In 2 Kings Chapter 6, Elisha was running a school for prophets. As the disciples grew in numbers, one of them proposed to expand the facility. Elisha agreed and they all went down to the River Jordan to cut down trees and bring them back. As one of the men was cutting down a tree, the axe head fell into the river. He cried out, “Oh no, master! It was borrowed!” Elisha asked, “Where did it fall?” The man showed Elisha the spot. The prophet cut off a piece of wood and threw it into the water. Miraculously, the axe head floated up to the surface. The disciple reached for it and picked it out of the water.

Can you imagine Elisha’s boldness commanding a solid piece of iron from out of a fast-flowing river? That is because he knew that the power of God was operating in his life. Like Elisha, you too have the power to recall what belongs to you. Your health can be restored. Your children will become Christ-followers. Your investments will start to soar again. Your marriage will be healed. Like Elisha, do not settle for a negative report. God has given us the power and authority to receive whatever we ask Him for (Mark 11:24). You may ask, “Sandy, do you really think God will hear my prayers? Doesn’t God have bigger things to deal with?” Can I tell you something? “You are God’s biggest deal!” He cares about every intricate detail of your life. He delights in the prosperity (body, mind, and soul) of His servant—that’s you (Psalm 35:27)!

Some of my friends are facing heavy losses from the slowing economy, crashing stock markets, and the lack of business. I am telling them what I am telling you now: Do not be afraid! God is saying to you, “I am your Source. I am not limited by natural circumstances. I am your Protector, your Healer, and your Provider. I will bring supernatural reversal to all you have lost. You will lend and not borrow. You will be the head and not the tail. I will bless you so that you can become a blessing to the world” (Deuteronomy 28:12-13 ESV). Do not look at your adversities and think “My situation is hopeless.” Jesus said, "What is impossible with man is possible with God."

John Chapter 11 tells the story of Lazarus, a good friend of Jesus, who had fallen ill. When Jesus first heard about it, he seemed unfazed. He said, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.” He made his way to Lazarus’ house. By the time Jesus arrived, his friend was dead and in a tomb for four days. He did not consider the natural circumstances. By faith, Jesus called out, “Lazarus, come out!” And he came out of the grave. Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”

Friend, are there things dead in your life? Jesus is saying, “The dream within you is not dead, it is just asleep!” Dare to call them back! God does not start something and not finish it. If you believe it, God will fulfil the dream He put in you. He will bring about what He promised. Now do your part and start talking like it is going to happen. Thank God for it in advance. If you believe, you will see a supernatural reversal in an unprecedented way. You and everyone around you will be amazed and see the glory of God. Do you believe it? I know you do. I love you and I am praying for a supernatural reversal in your future with speed and finality!

“God, your God, will restore everything you lost; he'll have compassion on you; he'll come back and pick up the pieces from all the places where you were scattered” (Deuteronomy 30:3 MSG).

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Living Under God’s Protection

Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been dominating the world news, economy, stock markets, air travel, and life as we know it. There is fear and panic among people everywhere. But as believers, we can not only survive but also thrive through these turbulent times. 

Living under the protection of God is a big topic in the Scriptures. God has made specific provisions for those who choose to live under His protection. While many people are motivated by fear, the people of God can rest in peace, knowing that He is in control of our lives. He will not let any evil to come near us. We are not ignorant or condescending, but we do not have to let a virus dictate our lives. Let us look at seven things you can know/do during this time!

1. Do not fear. God is in control. He does not do anything random. He has a plan and a purpose. No matter what happens in our world, it must pass through the courts of heaven. God does not bring evil upon us but works through situations that we face. Do not get God mixed up with the devil. The enemy comes to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). The affairs of our lives do not catch God by surprise. He is not wringing His hands thinking, “What am I going to do now?” He is not calling on the angels to discuss a bailout plan. No. He already has a solution before the problem began. God said, “Fear not, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10 ESV).

2. You have insurance. Before the various plagues struck the Egyptians, God said, “I will make a clear distinction between my people and your people…” (Exodus 8:23 NLT). One of the benefits of following Christ is that we are immune from the crisis around us. A ship does not drown when it is surrounded by water. A ship’s integrity is compromised only when water gets inside it. In the same way, you may be surrounded by plague but do not let it get inside of you. God promised, “So you shall serve the LORD your God, and He will bless your bread and your water. And I will take sickness away from the midst of you” (Exodus 23:25 NKJV). 

 

3. Spend quality time with your loved ones. There is never enough time to spend with the people we love and care for. During this time of limited movement, take the time to bond with your family and loved ones. Sometimes the people who sacrifice the most for us are least appreciated. Why not pick up the slack and start serving your family a little more. Love and assist your family by being available and doing chores together like cooking or cleaning. Spend one-on-one time with your kids and let them know how important they are to you. 

 

4. Protect yourself. We are in the world but not of this world. Just because we’re Christ-followers does not mean we have to throw away our brains. Protect yourself by washing your hands frequently with soap. Avoid physical contact such shaking hands and giving hugs. Keep a distance of four to six feet between you and others. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Take vitamins and supplements to boost your immune system. 

 

5. Have a personal revival. When we are forced to distance ourselves from others and when we cannot even go to church for fellowship, it makes for a great time to experience a personal awakening. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). Let us use this time of isolation to grow closer to God. Be still and ask the Holy Spirit if there are areas in your life where you can come up higher. When we are vertically strong, we will be horizontally successful also. 

 

6. Talk about Jesus. Seasons of uncertainty and crisis are some of the best times to share the gospel as many hearts are open, willing, and receptive to the things of God. You do not have to be obnoxious about it. Nor do you have to barge into people’s lives waving a Bible, preaching guilt and condemnation. Be sensitive and on the lookout for those who are distressed and overwhelmed by fear, anxiety, and hopelessness. We are the salt and light of the world. Let us use these opportunities to bring hope, healing, and wholeness through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

 

7. Declare God’s Word. Step away from the news and social media and tune into God’s promises. Shield yourself and your family by proclaiming Psalm 91 as often as you can. Let me say a prayer of peace, protection, and provision over your life: “Father, I declare that fear and anxiety leave your people immediately. I command the death and destruction of Coronavirus around the world. I proclaim sickness, disease, crisis, calamities, and plagues to flee from us. I thank you for protecting our children and senior citizens from catching anything that would be detrimental to their health. I thank you for strength and speedy recovery over those who have been infected. I declare that the only thing we will catch is the goodness of God, mercy, strength, health, longevity, favor, abundance, and a satisfied life.” You said, “The Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil” (2 Thessalonians 3:3 KJV). Lord, we believe and receive your peace and protection in Jesus’ Name Amen.” 

 

“A thousand may fall at your side, And ten thousand at your right hand; But it shall not come near you” (Psalm 91:7 NKJV).

 

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Acceleration is Coming

We are living in a day when God is speeding things up. Your sickness may look permanent, debt may look insurmountable, the business may be slow, but God is turning things around. What should normally take you a lifetime to accomplish will happen for you in a fraction of the time.

One of my friends owns a construction business. When we talked on the phone, he sounded so excited. He said, “Sandy, I’ve already made enough profit in January as I made in the entire past year!” My friend Jay is an airplane photographer. He has tried to get in contact with a certain client for a long time. He made multiple calls to get their business but to no avail. Last month, out of the blue, Jay received a call and was asked to photograph six jets for them! What was that? Favor and acceleration. God is speeding things up!

I know that there are times when we have to be patient and wait for God’s timing. But I also believe that there are seasons in your life when God will do a quick work. Like my two friends, you are going to experience acceleration. Perhaps you have been waiting for that promotion for a long time. Now God is going to bring it to pass. The right people and right doors are about to open up for you. God is going to take you where you cannot go on your own.

I was talking to one of our pastors in Nepal. He was visiting Bima, a young lady in his church living in the high Himalayas. Five years after her marriage the husband became very abusive towards his wife. Finally he found a job in Saudi Arabia and left his family at home. He never sent any money back to his wife or their young child. For years, Bima prayed for her husband to be saved but to no avail. It was a daily struggle for the mother and child. One day, she went and bought poison for her and her six-year-old young son. She wanted to end their lives. Then, out of nowhere, she got news that her husband got saved in Saudi Arabia. Now he attends church regularly and sending funds back to his family. The whole family is serving God happily!

In the same way, God is thrusting you forward to a new level because you have kept God first place. You are going to go further not because you work harder than everyone else but because it is your time for acceleration. You may think your marriage is beyond repair or that you have been addicted for too long but God is saying, “It’s time for acceleration!” All those dreams that look as though they will take a lifetime to accomplish, get ready because it is going to happen suddenly!

This is what happened to David. Prophet Samuel had anointed him to be the king of Israel. But instead of going to the palace, David went back to the shepherd’s fields. Nobody paid any attention to him. He spent years out in the lonely pastures. Then one day David’s time came for acceleration. He went out and defeated Goliath. He became a national hero and celebrity overnight that eventually led him to the throne. What David couldn’t do on his own, God made happen in a fraction of the time. 

On February 9th, 2020, a British Airways flight BA112 made headlines in newspapers all around the globe. Flight time from New York to London is about 7 hours. The Boeing 747 reached a top speed of 825 miles per hour to cross the Atlantic. The plane landed in London Heathrow almost two hours ahead of schedule. The duration of the flight was only 4 hours and 56 minutes! An expert meteorologist explained, "The jet stream is a fast moving 'river of air' high in the atmosphere, around the height that commercial airliners fly. The flight was riding a much stronger than usual jet stream, with tailwind of over 200 miles per hour propelling the aircraft.”

Now I’m not a meteorologist but let me give you a weather update. Because you honor God with your life, He is going to accelerate your dream. He is sending you some Holy Spirit jet stream that will help you do things faster than predicted. Promotion is coming. Health is being restored to you. You’re leaving debt behind. Your marriage is going to flourish again. Your child is turning back to God. Addiction cannot keep you down any longer. Your business is going to be profitable. The legal situation will settle in your favor. It will happen sooner than you think. It is not going to take your whole life to accomplish the dreams God put in your heart. Everything is falling into place. You are going to be amazed at what God will do for you! Get ready for Him to show up in your life. God is saying that 2020 is not going to be an average year. It is not going to be a barely-get-by year. No, you need to get ready because it is going to be a blockbuster year—a year of favor, increase, and acceleration, in Jesus’ name!

“Then said the LORD unto me, Thou hast well seen: for I will hasten my word to perform it.” (Jeremiah 1:12 KJV).

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Aging with Grace

 

Everybody wants to live longer, healthier and more meaningful lives. But like everything else, the good life does not just come knocking on your door automatically. We have to be proactive if we want to age with grace.

 

Recently I spoke to a group of men that I meet with regularly. One of them said, “When you cross fifty, you should accept that things are going to start falling apart. Aches and pains are the new norm.” I was disturbed by his comment and quickly answered, “Yeah, everybody except me! I’ll age well and live in divine health as long as I can because the Bible has promised me that.” My dear friend replied, “Well, you’re in denial!”

 

So what does the Bible teach about getting old? The Bible says, “Then the LORD said, "My Spirit will not contend with humans forever, for they are mortal; their days will be a hundred and twenty years" (Genesis 6:3 NIV). There are many people in the Bible who lived much longer. Noah lived to be 600 years old even after God's declaration, and his sons lived hundreds of years as well. Generations later, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob lived well past the age of 120 years. “Moses was one hundred and twenty years old when he died. His eyes were not dim nor his natural vigor diminished” (Deuteronomy 34:7 NKJV). Moreover, people today are reported to live longer than 120 years old on some occasions. 

 

You may say, “Brother Sandy, are you serious about living 120 years?” The truth is that I used to scoff at this notion but after researching the Bible, I started to believe it. Now I thank God every day for giving me 120 good years! My attitude is to shoot for the moon and even if I fail, I will fall among the starts, rather than aim low and make it. You do not have to start breaking apart under aches, pains, and chronic illnesses. Nowhere in the Bible God has promised that. That is just not His plan for your life.

                                                                                                                      

So what can we do to live a long, satisfied life, free of sickness, disease, aches, and pains? Let me share four practical things you can do to increase your longevity and natural vigor.

 

1. Grey matters. I am not talking about your hair color. I am talking about your brain cells. Age is a matter of mind. The number one secret to a vigorous life is taking care of your mental health. What you feed your mind will determine the quality of your life. No matter how accomplished you are, focus on personal development and continue to grow. Join a computer, art, or craft class. Attend cultural festivals and events. Learn a language. Travel and go see the world. The Brazilian author Paulo Coelho said, “If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine; it is lethal.” Keep your mind fresh and occupied with stimulating and wholesome information.

 

2. Build new relationships. People are always cycling out of our lives so you have to make sure to add new people in to your life. This is especially true as you get older. Do not let your world shrink by withdrawing from society. My friend Ron is 83 years old and extremely smart. He has done well in life and has plenty of resources. Nevertheless, he just picked up a job at Lowe’s because he wanted to interact with people and expand his circle of acquaintances!

 

3. Protect your heart. Solomon, the wisest man ever said, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23 NKJV). Keep your heart free from offenses. Forgive in advance and let go of grudges. Give generously—not just your money but also your time, wisdom, gifts, and talents.

 

4. Take care of yourself. Your body is not only where you live but the Holy Spirit lives in you! How you look correlates to how you feel. Remember that you are an Ambassador of Christ. Do not let yourself go! Dress well. Talk well. Eat well. Sleep well. Exercise well regularly. Even fifteen minutes a day will have you feeling invigorated and energize. Make sure to get your heart pumping each day. Hang around young people. Mentor them and pass on your wisdom to them. 

 

Let me give you a few promises that you can declare over your life every day. “With long life I will satisfy him, And show him My salvation” (Psalm 91:16 NKJV). “But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31 NKJV). “Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green” (Psalm 92:14 NLT).

 

Do not fear death! When you are fully satisfied with this life, you will go to sleep and wake up in heaven.  The scripture says, “The memory of the righteous is blessed.”

 

“You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed” (Psalm 139:16 NLT).

 

Become a Life Changer: https://buildinternational.org

Building People. Spreading Hope.