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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How to Make the Most at Work

Human nature is to magnify the small problems. The longer we stare at our problems, the bigger they look. If we’re not setting the tone for our day with a positive attitude right at the beginning, our circumstances will probably set the tone for us in a negative way.

One reason we feel bad about ourselves is because we complain. We dislike the traffic. We don’t like our jobs. Our boss is too stiff. Our co-workers are lazy. We feel unappreciated and so on and so forth. However, when we change our attitude, we can change our lives.

Let me give you some perspective. Think about the person who doesn’t have a car, a job, or a nice environment to work in. Think about the person who is battling a long-term disease. Think about a family who is going through a divorce or a foreclosure on their house. Even worse, they just lost their loved one to a dreaded disease.

People go through extreme difficulty every single day. While we complain and throw a fit over petty things, others are fighting life or death situations. Somebody would love to have your job, your health, your vehicle, your house, or your income.

Our lives gravitate towards our thoughts. What we constantly think about, we bring about. If you’re expecting clients to be demanding, they probably will be. If you’re planning to have a tough day, you probably will. On the contrary, if you believe that today you’ll hit that sales goal, you probably will. If you believe that you’re favored by the Power on High, you’ll be the most productive employee in the company. Whatever you believe, you’ll experience.

The famous Zig Zigar said, “You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.” Years ago, I worked at a nation-wide computer retail store. Most people there had a sour attitude at work. They didn’t like the management. They were offended at a customer. They complained about the constant change in the company policy. They had relationship problems at home and they brought it to work with them. I was going through a difficult phase in my life with some of my own personal problems. I was a sales person but very quickly I realized how blessed I was compared to those around me. I was in a negative environment but I didn’t allow the negativity to get in me. I began to reach out to my co-workers. I took time to listen to their frustrations. There was one guy who was struggling so I got lunch for two of us the whole time I was there. I prayed for them in the break room. Amazingly, I got promotion after promotion!

Don’t misunderstand me; I wasn’t perfect at all. Once, I stormed into my manager’s office and let him have several pieces of my mind. I took off my Christianity for a while and cussed him out. My manager was shocked! Half an hour later, when the Holy Spirit began to deal with me, I went back to my manager and asked him to forgive me. He was relieved!

I spent most of my time at work trying to help customers or co-workers. I became the go-to person with difficult customers or employees. I was the minister in the marketplace. As I helped others, my sales increased. I was making more on my off days than when I was present because the cashiers were putting sales through in my employee number. In a short time, I became one of the top performers in the company among thousands, winning all sorts of trophies, vacations, and awards. Change your attitude about work! Jesus said, “Give and you’ll receive.”

Today put on a sun-dried, lemon-fresh attitude. Wear a big smile – it says you’re open for business. Take the first step to make someone feel like a million dollars. Buy your co-worker a coffee or a lunch. Hum a praise song of God’s goodness in your life. Look at your family picture at your office and remember that because of you, their lives are blessed. Set your mind in the right direction first thing in the morning. You’re born to do great things. I speak blessing, focus, creativity, favor, increase, peace and prosperity in your life this week. Change your attitude and you’ll change your life. I’m praying for you!

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” (Philippians 4:8 NLT).

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How to Be the Most Valuable Employee

Most people spend a substantial amount of time getting ready for work. It’s important to look professional for the job that you do. However, how we prepare ourselves internally has a lot more to do with our success than how we look on the outside.

Going to work can be a battleground. Things come flying at you at hundred miles an hour. Starting from the traffic to dealing with a difficult boss, employee, or a demanding customer, it can easily sap your energy quickly. Let’s discuss seven traits of a valuable employee.

Be at peace. When you’re at peace, you are in control. The more you can handle a stressful situation in a calm manner, the less frustrated you’ll be. Don’t be surprised at the unexpected demands and behaviors of people. Part of that is what you’re getting paid to handle. When you stay calm, cool, and collected, people respect you and you become more valuable. Inner peace produces outer success.

Attitude is everything. Your attitude reveals your character and it determines your altitude. Attitude is simply confronting a tense situation in a relaxed, easy-going manner. Unfair things will happen. You have to choose your attitude from the moment you get up or else the world outside will set it for you. Employers are dying to find people with good attitudes. You can be the most valuable employee in the company simply by having a can-do attitude. 

Be positive. This one quality will separate you from 90% of the people in your organization. People are so quick to tune in to the negative. Anyone can report a problem. You’re hired to solve problems. Bosses want to hear how it can be done. The bigger problems you solve, the better compensation you’ll receive. No matter what’s thrown at you, your first response should be, “Yes. We’ll get it done.” Don’t worry about the details; it’ll all fall into place.

Delay response. Not all matters require immediate response. Especially, when you’re dealing with a critical email, customer, or employee, it will be to your benefit if you delay your response. When you face a problem, put it on the shelf. I’m not saying ignore the problem but don’t rush into action. Life has an amazing way of working itself out. Sometimes the best action is no action.

Have integrity. Why and how you do something is as important as what you do. In life, always promise less and deliver more. Do what is right even when it’s hurting your bottom line. A true test of integrity is to think, “What will I do if I was on the receiving end of my action?”

 

Celebrate someone. The world is full of selfish and ambitious people who want to step on others to get to the top. A better way to get to the top is to serve others. When we appreciate, recognize, and celebrate the achievements of others, not only will they rise higher but you will go to the top with them. Be genuinely happy for your co-worker’s success. What you send out always comes back.

Don’t panic; pray. There will be the unexpected and the inevitable. There will be things beyond your control. What you cannot change, pray that God will. When you pray, you have power (from on high). Build a reputation of being a prayer person at work and you’ll be amazed at the respect you earn! Unlike popular belief, don’t separate your faith and work life. We’re all called to be light in the world. Your witness for the Lord is vital to win the lost.

Be a balanced person at work. Don’t let others run over you, but don’t be a slacker either. Showing up is half the job done. Whatever you do, do it with all your might and enthusiasm. When you do a hard task with a good attitude, you’ll accomplish your goal faster. Honor God in the marketplace and He will honor you. You’re the only witness some people will ever see. Instead of complaining, learn to enjoy work. It will benefit everybody around. I’m praying for you and your success.

“Do everything without complaining and arguing” (Philippians 2:14 NLT).

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Stay Focused and Achieve More

Much of our productivity and purpose is lost when we get sidetracked by the small things that don’t produce big results. When we learn to stay focused on the task in front of us, then we’ll finish our job early, listen better, and solve problems faster.

Many believe that by multi-tasking they can get more done in less time. However, just the opposite is true. When we try to do too many things at once, it usually takes longer and there’s often a higher chance of error in what we try to accomplish.

Generally speaking, women tend to be better at multi-tasking then men. God wired our brains differently. I’m not trying to stereotype but women tend to handle more details at once better than men. Of course, if we can do more without sacrificing quality then it is commendable. However in most cases, it is better to stay focused on one job at a time. When we engage in multiple functions at once such as texting and driving, we may even risk our lives!

One of the best ways to stay focused is to make daily, weekly, monthly, even yearly goals. When we create a schedule, we’re essentially telling our time where to go. When we have a clear roadmap of what we need to do, and stay focused on chipping away at it throughout the day, we’ll see better results in accomplishing our goals. In today’s society, we’re busier than ever but not necessarily producing more. If we don’t have a “to do list” we can easily be carried away by checking our Facebook status, posting Instagram pictures, and phone calls from time-wasters.

Taking on one task at a time is effective. For example, if you have a pile of dishes, laundry, and carpet to vacuum, it is better to first tackle the job you like the least. When we start a project, we have the maximum energy and our body, and mind, is not as tired as it would be later in the day. Finishing a task gives you a sense of accomplishment and that motivates you to take on the next task with a better attitude. At work, we should try to attack the job that brings the most reward. If you’re in sales, you should be most focused on making new sales instead of getting bogged down in policies, procedures, and keeping your desk organized. If we’re in administration, we should be focused on managing our top producers, accounts, legalities, production, and customer relationships. Staying focused on most rewarding task will pay off in the long run.

In the Scriptures, even Jesus stayed focused on the task at hand. He didn’t panic at the urgent. He stayed faithful in doing one thing at a time. This is exemplified John 11:5-6. Jesus “delayed” two days longer in the village where He was when He got news that Lazarus was sick unto death. However, He understood the principle of staying focused. When Jesus got done in the village and arrived at Lazarus’ house, his sister Martha lamented, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days! Jesus didn’t panic. He called Lazarus out of the grave! In the case of Jesus, staying focused brought greater glory to God by raising the dead.

Could it be we’re wasting valuable time, effort, and energy by trying to do too many things at once? I know people whose schedules are so packed that they don’t even have time for their families or time to relax and rejuvenate. They are busy like a bee and one day they wake up to find out that their honey is gone. May I recommend that a better way is to stay focused on your work but also stay focused guarding your time with God and your family and friends? When we guard our time with God, we’re infusing power, innovation, and efficiency in our day. Friend, let us not shoot in the dark and do whatever comes on our way. If we’re to be excellent and efficient in what we do, then we have to be intentional about staying focused. You can’t do everything at once. Staying focused and doing one thing at a time will make us more productive, satisfied, and deliver greater rewards. I pray and declare that you’ll be more focused on God, family, relationships, and your health. Let’s stay focused and achieve more.

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” (Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV).

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Dream Bigger Dreams

There’s something about big thinkers. The world is full of small thinkers because small thinking takes no effort. It’s those who have the audacity to think big that will change the world. I love being around big thinkers because they inspire others.

Our God, who created the vast universe, is a big thinker. Everything about God is lavish and expansive. It doesn’t cost us anything to have a large mindset. Big thoughts are free. If we can dare to dream it, most of the time we can achieve it. Today, I want to inspire you to dream bigger dreams for your business, career, and life. Small goals take small effort. God-size dreams require God Himself to work on our behalf.

Born into slavery in 1864, George had the odds stacked against him. At the age of twelve, he left home in pursuit of an education. The first college to accept him turned him away because he was black. Through perseverance and sheer determination, George not only finished college but he became an agricultural revolutionist.

One of the biggest money-makers in agriculture those days were cotton plantations. However, constant farming of cotton depleted the soil of its nutrients and would eventually kill the land and the farmer’s livelihood. George came up with the big idea of crop rotation. He proposed alternation between cotton and peanuts. The idea wasn’t easy to sell to the farmers. Once again, through hard work and tenacity, the idea took off. It was so effective that now they had to deal with a new problem — excessive peanuts. George knew he had to come up with a quick solution. Once again, he put on his “big thinking” hat on and within a week George invented dozens of smart solutions. From cooking oil to ink and of course, peanut butter, he went on to find 325 smart solutions. By 1938, tiny peanuts became a mighty 200 million dollar industry! Could it be that a little tweak in your business could bring about the same change?

What is interesting is that George Washington Carver was not motivated by money. He turned down today’s equivalent of one million dollars a year to work for Thomas Edison. He never aspired to amass a fortune or sell his discoveries. Success to him was a lifetime of service. He said, “It is not the style of clothes one wears, neither the kind of automobile one drives, nor the amount of money one has in the bank, that counts. These mean nothing. It is simply service that measures success.”

Too many professionals today are putting the cart before the horse. While there’s nothing wrong in wanting the best compensation for your services and products, it’s never going to be enough if we put making money as our ultimate goal. As a business owner or a professional, put in time to serve and treasures will find you.

This is what my young friend David did. He works for a multinational company here in DFW. Recently, he had to deal with an irate customer because his order wasn’t delivered on time. David, being a man of integrity, took matters in his own hands. He fought upper management and showed up at the customer’s doorstep with a car full of expensive equipment. David not only made a huge impression on the client but retained him as customer for life. It is service that begets success. What are your motives in business? If making money is your ultimate goal; you’re dreaming too small!

In the Bible (Luke 5:1-11), Jesus was teaching large crowds wherever he went. One day he was pressed between the multitude and the open sea. He saw Peter washing his nets by the shore. He asked if he could borrow his boat. Peter willingly agreed. Jesus is a gentleman. He’ll never put you through something without paying you back for it. Every time you honor God, He will honor you. Later, He asked Peter to cast his nets into the deep. Peter was a professional fisherman. He said, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so…” My friend, take time to listen to what God is saying about your business or career. Peter caught so many fish that his nets were breaking and he had to call for others to bring it all in. Let me ask you a question. Is your career or your business only a vehicle to make ends meet or are you glorifying God with your products and services? If you think big, toil hard, follow God’s Word, and put others first, you too will become big producer. God’s dream for you is bigger than your own dream for yourself. Agree with God and He’ll take you higher than you could ever imagine. I believe and declare that this week will be your best week of the year so far! I’m praying for you.

“When you get there, you will come to a secure people. The land is wide open to you. God will hand it over to you. It's a place where you will have everything you could want" (Judges 18:10 God’s Word).

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Use Your Phone to Your Advantage

We live in an age when technology is a blessing as well as a curse. It helps us solve problems as well as abuse our time. One of the most powerful tools we have in our hand is our phone. If we don’t manage our phone wisely, it will dictate our lives.

I know many of you use a phone to conduct your business. However, if we’re not making wise use of this tool then we’re draining energy. Today, I want to talk about practical ways we can make better use of our phones and technology in general.

Be in control. You either control your phone or it will run your life. Anytime we’re being controlled by outside circumstances or an object, we’re living off balance. We must pass the test of living without technology. If we cannot imagine an hour, or even a day, without a cell phone at our fingertips, we’re probably being controlled by technology. No matter how good it is, anytime we can’t live without something, we’re allowing it to be a little god in our lives. It is time to reconsider our dependency.

Be selective. You don’t have to feel important by taking every call. If we’re not intentional about technology, it will always find us. Don’t be driven by other people’s calls and don’t let it hamper your productivity. It’s different if you’re a receptionist or a telephone operator. I encourage you to be selective in who you talk to and when you talk to them. Set aside a designated “phone free” time every day.

Create boundaries. You cannot live up and down depending on the phone calls you get. Some of the greatest features of a cell phone are caller ID and voicemail. When you see a person calling and you’re not in the best of circumstances to deal with it, let it go to your voicemail. I know this is basic but it amazes me how many people allow others to ruin their whole hour, or even their whole day, based on a phone call they didn’t have to take. If you know it’s going to be a stressful call and it’s not an emergency, let it go to voicemail and then listen to it when you’re in a relaxed mood.

Screen your calls. Only my family and certain individuals have 24/7 access to me. If we don’t screen people, we’ll be overspent. I love all people but I decide who I want to engage in a conversation with and when I do. Just because someone is your biggest client, it doesn’t mean you have to be at their disposal all the time. Yes, you can appreciate their business but you don’t have to let people own you. When you guard your time for family and screen your calls, even others will learn and begin to respect you more.

Respond, don’t react. When you get that nasty, accusing, and derogatory call, resist the urge to react. If you have to speak, the best thing is to say, “I understand. Let me get back to you on that.” This allows you to think before you respond. When we’re at peace, we’re in control. You’ll be amazed how different your response will be if you just allow 24 hours before you respond and allow your emotions to settle.

Smile and sound enthusiastic. If you’re a dog-owner, you know how excited they get to see you. People are the same way. I always pause and smile (often out loud) when making or taking a phone call. When you’re relaxed it transmits, even through the cellular waves. When you’re welcoming in your conversation, you’re adding value to the other person.

Be inspiring. Most calls people get is usually a crisis or a problem. While we can’t always control what life throws at us, we can greatly aspire to inspire. When you call people just to check on them, give a compliment, or say a prayer, you’re being inspiring. Personal touch is so missing from our culture these days. I encourage you to call people when you don’t need anything from them and they’ll be there when you do need something from them. Be genuine. When people feel loved and know that you care, you’re exerting positive influence on them.

People need people. You can make it all business or you can really get to know people. Don’t try to build your organization. Build people and they’ll build your organization! Use your phone wisely. Friend or a foe — it’s your choice.

“Like apples of gold in settings of silver Is a word spoken in right circumstances” (Proverbs 25:11 NAS).

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How to Increase Your Sales

You may not be directly involved in a sales job but all of us are selling ourselves. Whether we provide a service or a product or even peace of mind such as insurance, or a relationship - we all need to master the skills of sales.

I have many friends who have outstanding products but they’re sitting in the dark. Today, let’s discuss simple principles to jump-start your sales and bring you immediate increase.

First, the product! If you want great sale, you must have a great product. If the product is designed to provide a service or increase productivity then you have a valid commodity in hand. Know your product. Find out what it can do for people.

Market effectively. Big companies spend top dollars on advertisement for a reason – it works! How you market your product will determine how much it will sell. I have a friend who is very intelligent and has a great product to offer. However, his sales pitch is very confusing. He doesn’t have a clear presentation. Therefore, his business is struggling. If you want to increase your sales, you have to market the benefit of your products over and over with as many people as possible.

Build trust. Hoping to make a quick sale, many people make the mistake of pushing their product before building trust. We may succeed in making a quick sale here and there but if you want to build life-long customer base, then you have to invest time, effort and energy in your prospective customer. When we take the time to understand what the customer want and how to best serve that need, then we’ll have clients waiting on us.

Give a custom-made experience. Most successful businesses are those that are flexible. People don’t buy product or services; they buy the experience of you and your establishment. Recently, I was with my daughter Sabrina, buying breakfast in a cozy London restaurant. They had a long list of menu but I just wanted some eggs and hash brown. When I asked the waitress, she was more than willing to serve my request. It was delicious and I left a generous tip. The next day, we wanted to try a different restaurant. When we sat down I asked for the same breakfast. This time the response was, “We don’t have that on the menu; we don’t serve that.” I was taken back at the owner’s response and I almost wanted to leave. We’re the only people in the restaurant and I didn’t want to be rude. So we endured the unfriendly service. The difference between the two restaurants was vast in their attitude. One was there to serve and give us a custom-made experience while the other was just going through the motion. Guess where we ate breakfast the next day!

Be patient. A “no” for now is not “NO” forever. Customers are in the process of making decisions. Give people some time. In our recent missions trip to India, we’re driving to our meeting place when a young boy on the street approached my window to sell a banana. I like to help people but I also like to know their story. It wasn’t more than a minute when the youngster got tired of my questions. I had money in my hand ready to buy his bananas but he left! Soon we stopped to pay toll at a toll booth. Another young boy came trying to sell us corn. This young boy was hungry and he was patient. He started running beside our car when we took off. We stopped and gave him a day’s wage. The first boy got impatient but the second young man got blessed with hundred bananas!  What’s the point? Be patient. If your customers are not ready to buy right now, keep educating them about the benefits of your products and services. From time to time, go back to the “closed doors” and offer your services again. You’ll be amazed how your sales will increase!

Last but not the least; ask God for favor in your business. Bring God to work with you. He will open doors for you that no man can shut. You’re designed to have plenty. If you practice these simple principles, your sales will go off the roof.

“The LORD will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none” (Deuteronomy 28:12 NIV).

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There’s Plenty for You

Our vision is our future but yet there are so many people content with so little. If we can only raise our vision, we’ll have plenty for what we need and plenty left over to bless others.

One thing I love about our God is that He is a BIG thinker. He created the universe lavishly. His vision to save the world was equally outrageous! The Bible says, “He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things” (Romans 8:32 ESV)? If we’re to make a difference in our lives, family, community and the world then we too must think, talk and act like God. Our lives will only produce to the heights we envision ourselves to succeed.

What is your vision? Do you see lack, scarcity and mediocrity? Or are you a big thinker and even harder worker? Vision, hard work and patience will get you just about anything you want in life. In the early 70s, Honda’s vision statement was, “We will destroy Yamaha.” In the 60s, Nike’s vision statement was, “Crush Adidas.” Both have matured and evolved since then. If your personal ambition is to compete with others you’re wasting your resources in the wrong channels. Pursue your own dreams. There are seven billion people in the world today! Someone has a need of your service. No matter what business you’re in, remember this: people don’t buy products; they buy the experience of you. Nobody in the world can substitute what you have to offer to people. You can’t be everything to everybody. Focus on your strength. Don’t try to win everyone. Target those who understand your value, principle and cause.

This year, our goal is to reach 300,000 people with the Gospel. We are well on our way. By the grace of God, your support and the sacrifices of our native missionaries, we’ve already touched over 200,000 people. Next two months are our biggest outreach months of the year. One way we achieve our goal is to constantly remind the vision to ourselves and our co-workers. We don’t wake up in the last month of the year and say, “Oops, I guess we better work harder now.” We start off a new year in full steam and keep the momentum going throughout the year. If we do the right thing long enough, rewards will come. Consistency pays off.

Maybe you’re running a business today and you’ve had a slow year thus far. Don’t panic. There’s plenty for you! The so called “experts” may have a negative report. The Wall Street may say contrary to your belief in God’s ability. Your personal experience may not have been so good. Remember this: God has plenty for you. You will only acquire what you can aspire to achieve. If you think small, you’ll receive small. If you expect great things from God and work equally hard for it, you’ll have everything you need and more. Increase your capacity to receive from God.

A great stumbling block to our accomplishment is when we get bogged down to the details of how things should happen. Don’t misunderstand me. I believe in planning and strategy but never underestimate the power of God. He is a great finisher. What you didn’t achieve the whole year, He can bring to you just through one customer. Your labor in the Lord is not in vain. He knows the desires of your heart and He loves to see you fulfilled. Give God praise by faith. For if God be for us, who can be against us?

Friend, there’s plenty for you. This week, go out with a new spring in your footstep. Expect sales, business, favor and customers to come to you. God has already commanded those into your account. Now it’s your job to walk out by faith and meet your blessings. There’s plenty for you and plenty left over to bless the world. I’m praying for you!

“The LORD will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the LORD your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom” (Deuteronomy 28:13 NIV).

Click Here to Spread the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

Book Sandy Anderson as Speaker: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net  

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Don’t Lose Your Brand

Brand is the name, term, design, symbol, or any other feature that identifies one seller's product distinct from those of other sellers. When we think about a brand, it stands out in our mind from the masses. Our brand is our identity.

Airplanes are made to fly. Ships sail and cars drive. No matter how big, fancy and powerful they are its useless unless they perform to do what they’re made for. People spend millions trying to secure their brand. What is your brand? What do people think of when they think about you?

When people think of me I want them to think of two things – inspiration and world missions. I do a lot of things but empowering people with the Word of God and bringing the Gospel to the nations are the focus of my life. Being in the ministry, kind people offer me all sorts of opportunities because they’re trying to help our organization. I appreciate their offer but kindly I have to turn them down. I’ve learnt this principle in life: every opportunity is not for me. I must be true to the vision God gave me and that is inspiration and world missions.

If we’re to be successful in life, we have to find and cultivate our brand. In order to be effective, you cannot be a master of all. You may do many things but don’t let your brand be so broad that people can’t think of one thing that you stand for. People and businesses that thrive are those who understand and cultivate their brand.

U2 is my favorite band in the world. I love their music. I’ve been a fan of this Irish band since they became famous with their hit “I still haven’t found what I’m looking for.” After thirty years, they’re still writing outstanding music and fans like me are following them. If you didn’t know, U2’s front man Bono does a lot of humanitarian work, especially in Africa. He’s also a political activist. He challenges rich nations to forgive foreign debts of the poor countries. They do a lot of inspiring things but their staple is still churning good music. That is the number one reason why they’re still in business and thriving. What’s your brand? What brings out the best in you?

I find people who have great ideas and vision but they never take the time to hone down their trade. They offer multiple services and lack laser focus in their vision. It’s okay to have multiple source of income but don’t juggle two or three businesses until you’re successful at one. You only have a limited energy and resources every day. Everything you do takes your time, effort and energy. If you’re spreading yourself too thin, you won’t have the time to develop anything and you’ll miss out.

When Jesus got started in the ministry, John sent his disciples to check Him out. He wasn’t critical but John wanted to know what Jesus was about? So he replied to the messengers, "Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. (Luke 7:22 NIV). Jesus was saying, “I’m the Savior, Healer and the Deliverer of mankind!”

Friend, what is your brand? Have you strayed from the original vision God gave you? Are your fingers in too many pies? Do the people think of any one thing when they think about you? Are you spread too thin? Every opportunity that comes along your way is NOT for you. Focus on the one thing God has gifted you with. Don’t be a Jack of all trades. Be a master of one thing and all Jacks will gather around you! Whatever you focus on will grow. As you become successful in one thing, you’ll be amazed how every other area of your life will also start to flourish. Stick to your brand. Go back to the basics. Do what you’re best at and you’ll rise to the top. Don’t lose your brand! I’m praying for you.

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14 ESV).

Click Here to Spread the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

Book Sandy Anderson as Speaker: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net 

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Doing Business in Deep Waters

Inside each of us is a desire to do great things in life. When we experience a few setbacks, we tend to tone down our dreams and settle for a mediocre life. If we want to accomplish great things we have to nurture a big vision.

The Bible talks about doing business in great waters. It talks about experiencing God’s miracles in the deep waters. When we’re splashing around in the shallow it is safe.  When you’re in the deep waters, out in the middle of the sea, you have to trust and depend on God for your very survival. You have to take risks but the payback is the great treasures in the depth of the ocean floor.

I want to talk to primarily business owners today. However, these things are applicable to anyone who wants to make a big impact for God. Your dreams and purposes are not there by chance. The Creator of the universe put those desires in you. You’re born for such a time like this. The wealth of the world is stored up for you. God knows your heart is not just to provide for your family but also to touch the world with your influence and resources. Today, let’s talk about a few principles that will propel you to your ultimate destiny.

Believe in the dream God placed in your life. When you set out to do great things for God, you’ll have many opportunities to abort your dream. God will always give you some people who will believe in you but most of the time you have to be your biggest cheerleader. Protecting your dream will be one of your greatest challenges. Very few Christians believe that God wants them to become wealthy and change the world. There’s a small-mindedness that keep most people limited in the shallow waters. It will require all your faith and determination to do business in deep waters. Protect your dream. God is with you in the deep!

There will be oppositions. Great visions will have great oppositions. It comes with the territory. When Joseph had a dream, his own family was the first to laugh at him and tried to steal his dream. He went to the pit, then to the prison but ultimately to the palace to become second in command in the country. Moses faced a similar fate when he struggled for his own survival. But God’s grace led him to the very heart of Pharos’s house floating in a basket. He became the deliverer of the great nation of Israel. David would still be known as a shepherd boy had he not faced his Goliath. Daniel faced the lion’s den. Jesus had to flee to another country as a child to escape the great slaughter. His whole life was marked with challenges but He championed all of life’s trials when He rose again from the dead. You too my friend possess the same potential as the great men of faith before us. You can’t please every person and God at the same time. You will have oppositions but God has prepared a banquet table in front of your enemies. Those who oppose you now will see your success and marvel at God’s goodness in your life. Embrace challenges; it will help you rise higher.

Have some determination. If you build it, they’ll come! Most people give up without finishing the goals and visions God placed in their hearts. What they don’t realize is how close they were to accomplishing their dream! You’re closer than you think. You have come too far to go back now. Great treasures of the sea are in the deep. Give up the low life. Stretch towards heaven. It takes the same faith of a mustard seed to believe God for a $250,000 or a $5,000,000 business. With the later, you can have more influence to win our world for Jesus. You’ve got what it takes. God has the right people lined up for you. Your breakthrough is just in the horizon. Don’t give up until you see God’s miracles in the deep.

Friend, no matter what you do, dream big. Expect great things from God. Don’t let the enemy steal the seeds of greatness from your heart. Embrace challenges. The magnitude of your problem is an indication to the size of your destiny. Don’t be surprised if your dream is taking longer than you anticipated. Get out of the shallow waters. The wealth of the world is yours but you have to launch out into the deep! God is with you and I’m praying for you.

“Those who sail on the sea in ships, who do business on the high seas, have seen what the LORD can do, the miracles he performed in the depths of the sea” (Psalm 107:23-24 God’s Word).

Click Here to Spread the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

Book Sandy Anderson as Speaker: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net 

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Dignity of Labor

Work has been a part of man’s life since the beginning of creation. God gave Adam a garden to care for. He made Eve to improve Adam! If we’re to live a balanced life, it is important for us to have the right attitude towards work.

John D. Rockefeller was a businessman and philanthropist. He said, “I believe in the dignity of labor, whether with head or hand; that the world owes no man a living but it owes every man an opportunity to make a living.” America is one of the greatest countries in the world to provide opportunity and reward work excellence. Yet there are more people today who are going on social welfare simply because they don’t want to work.

My friend Ben came to this country with seventy dollars in his pocket. He understood the value of work and opportunity. He worked through several menial jobs but today has three thriving restaurants in Colorado, serving Himalayan cuisines. He employs over fifty local college students and hires chefs from Nepal. His family supports our ministry sending destitute children to school.

God’s Word provides instructions on work and ethics. One of my favorite verses is, “If a man should not work, he shouldn’t eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). It is God’s will for us to work. One mistake people often make is to wait for a perfect job. While it’s good to pray, believe and search for the job of your dream, it is better to start with the best job you can get and work your way to the top. Don’t worry about promotion and the time it takes to get to the top, just be your best at what you have. The cream always rises to the top.

If you’re an employee, work as unto the Lord. Your work-life is a daily sermon to your co-workers. If you’re coming to work on time, putting in a full day’s work, reliable, kind, team player and productive soon they’ll begin to question about your God. You’re setting a God-standard at work when you don’t gossip or talk down on the management. When you’re practicing your Sunday values at work, you’re being a witness for Christ. Your example will draw men and women to the Lord.

Employers, be fair to your co-workers. Recently I was visiting with my friend Ms. Joyce. She works for some other friends of mine in an insurance business. I was having dinner at her home with her children and grandchildren. When the subject of work came up, Ms. Joyce couldn’t say enough nice things about her employers and her office. She kept bragging on the kindness of her boss and the flexibility they offer. The owners go out of their way to treat their employees with great love, respect and honor. Is there any wonder that the company is doing well in spite of the economy! We have workers in our ministry who have been with us fifteen, twenty years because they feel the love and care we provide for them and their families.

A very important part of life is to have balance. I know many friends who are workaholics. All their conversations and social life revolves around work. This is not healthy. People at work are too stressed out today. If you make God your Provider, you’ll be less stressed and more productive. Don’t be a lion at work and come home to give the leftover (time, effort and energy) to your family. Don’t miss out on the best part of life. Once a week, keep a day reserved for your family. Don’t take business calls, emails or do other work activity. When your family sees you value your family, spend time with them and keep healthy boundaries then they will love, respect and honor you more.

“If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need” (Ephesians 4:28 NLT).

Click Here to Spread the Message of Hope: www.buildinternational.org

Book Sandy Anderson as Speaker: Call 972 800 4346, Email: buildinternational@sbcglobal.net 

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