Tag: plan

  • BE STRATEGIC ABOUT YEAR 2021

    Be strategic about 2021

    This message is important looking at the outlook of 2020.

    It was a similar experience to Isaac’s experience at Gerah.

    While in Gerah things weren’t rosy and kind to him… At the end of the season he planned checking out.

    Many of us are frustrated as the year is running out, we have many plans among which is resignation to fate.

    But for this one time God is saying that he is not over with you…

    *RELOAD

    Isaac counted his loss and was disappointed really.

    As Isaac was picking his pieces together to get down to Egypt the Lord appeared unto him and instruct him to stay back.

    Genesis 26:1-4,6 KJV
    And there was a famine in the land, beside the first famine that was in the days of Abraham. And Isaac went unto Abimelech king of the Philistines unto Gerar. [2] And the Lord appeared unto him, and said, Go not down into Egypt; dwell in the land which I shall tell thee of: [3] Sojourn in this land, and I will be with thee, and will bless thee; for unto thee, and unto thy seed, I will give all these countries, and I will perform the oath which I sware unto Abraham thy father; [4] And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; [6] And Isaac dwelt in Gerar:

    *A vital lesson here:*

    1. God doesn’t want his own children to give up for any reason.

    2. God sees all we passes through

    3. There are places his coverings are not guaranteed in our life journey. Let’s be careful not to be hasty going such ends.

    4. God has his own plan for us… Plan to do us good if we will trust and obey

    5. God is mindful of his covenant to our forefathers in the faith and he’s looking out to fulfil them in our lives.

    God sees your pains, so he is sending his words:

    If only you will hold on faithfully to him, I swear by his Mighty Name he will do you good.

    He is not man that he will lie.

    In our journey in life, what we need of utmost importance is THE WORD OF GOD…

    I mean the specific word in that circumstance.

    How do you hear him: By being intensive in prayer. When you get into such state as one in labour he who could speak through a donkey will send you words.

    God speaks and all his creation that calla him from the depth of their hearts can hear him distinctly.

    In 2021 we will have specific words of God to bank upon in those situations in Jesus name.

    *Today we are talking about being strategic in 2021*

    What so we mean?

    I realized as many of us do that many people into the ending of the years become hyper-spiritual.

    Everyone is in church and prayer gathering.

    God is an intentional God. He wants you too to be intentional.

    God is not a dummy we can rush to for a quickie.

    He is far intelligent than man.

    You make marathon prayer into the next year… Then it ends there….

    This is why majority in prayer gathering don’t get anything…

    They believe prayer is all they need and the magic wand to use into the new year.

    Then it stops there.

    Why do you think African churches aren’t moving forward?

    We pray loooooong but lacked the actions that goes with prayer.

    When Isaac heard God to stay back in Gerah he didn’t do what many Africans will do.

    In Africa, after looong prayer and God ask us to stay back in Gerah we will obey quite OK. Sit back home and wait lazily for somebody in America or one rich man to become answer to our prayer.

    Africa is becoming a praying nations full of lazy Christians.

    Looking at Bible principles… Christians are not the recipients of aids, alms and bailout.

    Christians should be the answer.

    When Isaac received the words of God, he didn’t go forth, fold his hands and keep hoping.

    He believed and demonstrated his faith by action.

    Isaac sowed like never before, dug well with new zeal and vigours.

    If you’ve really heard God, you’ll work more than others….

    Paul our example laboured more than the rest.

    If you have really prayed and heard God you will be ready to work out (your salvation).

    For the evidence of faith in your prayer is WORK.

    Let us stop hoping while we do nothing.

    I’m talking with WC here, so we understand that we are made with superior substance of his glory.

    Thousands of anointing oil, prophecies and laying on of hands will not change things if those things will not lead us to ACTION.

    SEED sowing into the new year without calls to strategic labour (I’m not talking about wild labour) is emptiness.

    Even corn down in a farmland needs extra labour to make it bring forth.

    Pray, sow your seed, receive prophetic impartation, then LABOUR LIKE NEVER BEFORE.

    I know this is strange teachings.

    Christians of today are not taught to labour so they begin to slave it out to the enemy.

    Do you know that after the express words of God to Isaac, Isaac went into fierce labour that made him richer than a whole nation?

    Genesis 26:12-14 KJV
    Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the Lord blessed him. [13] And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great: [14] For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him.

    Note in the line above: *Isaac sowed in the land*

    God’s word to you is only designed to empower you to take action.

    If you’ve really heard God, you cannot sit quietly….

    Pray until you hear God in the coming year.

    When Adam heard God he single handedly numbered and named all the animals in Eden

    Abraham knowing who he was overcame 4 nations in a single war.

    Joseph knew what God said about his dominion that even after becoming a governor of Egypt would rise daily anticipating to meet his brethren based on prophecy.

    What God is saying for 2021, rise to fulfill the prophecy that has gone ahead of you.

    Rise in dominion

    Elevate

    Labour

    For I am with you.

    N.B. The above isn’t for those who want to walk contrary to divine prescription and covenant of life.

    Let us pray;
    Dear Lord, I thank you for your word that strengthens my heart to step up the game and live for your purpose in my life in 2021.

    Lord forgive me of every kind of sin that may want to destroy your plan for my life.

    Lord Jesus I receive you afresh into my heart as I chose a new life in you.

    May 2021 be my best year so far in Jesus name.

    Amen.
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
    WALE ADEWUMI

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  • HOW TO REMAIN FOCUS IN DELIVERING EXCELLENCE – PART 2

    MODULE 8

    HOW TO REMAIN FOCUSED IN DELIVERING EXCELLENCE (PART 2)

    Building the Lifestyle of Focus

    “Purpose demands concentration. Every great leader learns to protect what God has called them to accomplish.”

    Key Scriptures

    • Luke 2:49
    • Mark 3:31–35
    • Matthew 16:21–23
    • Colossians 2:13–15
    • Proverbs 13:20
    • Proverbs 27:17
    • Psalm 1:1–3
    • 1 Corinthians 9:24–27
    • Ephesians 5:15–17

    Learning Objectives

    At the end of this module, participants should be able to:

    • Build practical habits that sustain a focused life.
    • Learn to protect their purpose from unnecessary distractions.
    • Develop the courage to say “No” to activities and relationships that hinder destiny.
    • Understand the importance of planning and intentional living.
    • Appreciate how healthy relationships and healthy living contribute to long-term leadership effectiveness.

    Introduction

    In the previous module, we discovered that solitude is the birthplace of focus.

    Every outstanding leader develops the habit of withdrawing from noise to seek God’s direction.

    However, solitude is only the beginning.

    Focus is not an event.

    It is a lifestyle.

    Many leaders know their purpose, yet fail to fulfil it because they have not developed the daily disciplines that protect their focus.

    Purpose must be guarded.

    Vision must be protected.

    Time must be managed.

    Jesus understood this perfectly.

    Although He loved people deeply, He never allowed people to distract Him from His divine assignment.

    Strategic leaders must learn the same lesson.


    Key 1: Do Not Be Too Available

    One of the greatest enemies of focus is excessive availability.

    Everyone wants your attention.

    Everyone wants your time.

    Everyone believes their request is urgent.

    But not every urgent matter is important.

    Leaders who attempt to satisfy everyone eventually disappoint themselves.

    Jesus did not respond to every invitation.

    He did not attend every gathering.

    He understood His priorities.

    Even when His earthly family sought His attention, He remained committed to His Father’s assignment.

    (Luke 2:49; Mark 3:31–35)

    Strategic leaders distinguish between:

    • Important and urgent.
    • Necessary and optional.
    • Good opportunities and God opportunities.

    Game Changer Principle

    You cannot fulfil your highest purpose if you are constantly distracted by lesser priorities.


    Key 2: Build the Courage to Say “No”

    Every successful leader has mastered one simple word:

    No.

    Many people struggle to say no because they fear disappointing others.

    Great leaders understand that every unnecessary “Yes” is often a hidden “No” to their purpose.

    Jesus said “No” when Peter tried to discourage Him from going to the Cross.

    (Matthew 16:21–23)

    He refused anything that would derail God’s assignment.

    Strategic leaders learn to say no to:

    • Wrong relationships.
    • Time-wasting activities.
    • Sinful compromises.
    • Endless distractions.
    • Fear of people’s opinions.
    • Comfort that limits growth.

    Every “No” that protects God’s purpose is an act of wisdom.

    Practical Exercise: The Power of “No”

    Stand before a mirror.

    Imagine situations that commonly tempt or distract you.

    Speak firmly:

    • “No to corruption.”
    • “No to laziness.”
    • “No to fear.”
    • “No to compromise.”
    • “No to unhealthy relationships.”
    • “No to every distraction from God’s purpose.”

    Victory is often won first in the mind before it is demonstrated in daily living.


    Key 3: Live by a Plan

    Many people merely react to life.

    Strategic leaders intentionally design their lives.

    Planning is an expression of faith, stewardship and wisdom.

    God is a God of purpose and order.

    Jesus came to change the destiny of humanity through God’s predetermined plan.

    (Colossians 2:13–15)

    Prayer does not eliminate planning.

    Rather, prayer guides planning.

    Strategic leaders:

    • Pray intentionally.
    • Plan carefully.
    • Act courageously.
    • Review consistently.

    Without a plan, distractions determine your future.

    With a plan, purpose determines your future.

    Game Changer Principle

    Do not simply live each day.

    Direct each day.


    Key 4: Choose Your Inner Circle Carefully

    Scripture reminds us:

    “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise.” (Proverbs 13:20)

    Our closest relationships shape our attitudes, habits and expectations.

    Not everyone should occupy your inner circle.

    You may love everyone.

    You may serve everyone.

    But you should be intentional about those who influence your thinking.

    Your closest companions should inspire you towards God’s purpose.

    Choose friends who:

    • Challenge your growth.
    • Strengthen your faith.
    • Encourage excellence.
    • Celebrate integrity.
    • Pursue meaningful goals.

    Avoid relationships that continually drain your vision.

    This is not pride.

    It is stewardship.


    Key 5: Build a Healthy Lifestyle

    Leadership is demanding.

    Vision requires energy.

    Purpose requires endurance.

    Your body is an instrument God has entrusted to you.

    Healthy leaders serve longer and influence more effectively.

    Develop healthy habits in:

    Your Nutrition

    Eat wisely.

    Choose foods that strengthen rather than weaken your body.

    Your Physical Fitness

    Exercise regularly.

    Movement improves both physical and mental performance.

    Your Thought Life

    Guard your mind carefully.

    Meditate on God’s Word.

    Fill your mind with truth, wisdom and hope.

    A healthy mind produces healthy decisions.

    A healthy body supports a healthy vision.


    Focus Is Protected by Daily Disciplines

    Excellence is rarely achieved through one dramatic decision.

    It is built through daily habits.

    Small disciplines repeated consistently produce extraordinary results over time.

    Every focused leader intentionally protects:

    • Time.
    • Energy.
    • Relationships.
    • Health.
    • Priorities.
    • Spiritual intimacy with God.

    Characteristics of Focused Leaders

    Focused leaders:

    • Protect their time wisely.
    • Say “No” when necessary.
    • Live according to clear priorities.
    • Plan intentionally.
    • Surround themselves with wise people.
    • Maintain healthy lifestyles.
    • Refuse unnecessary distractions.
    • Build disciplined daily habits.
    • Pursue excellence consistently.
    • Remain faithful to God’s assignment.

    Self-Assessment

    Rate yourself from 1–10.

    • I protect my daily schedule.
    • I can say “No” without feeling guilty.
    • I have a written personal plan.
    • My closest friends inspire me.
    • I maintain healthy daily habits.
    • I consistently protect my focus.

    Which area needs the greatest improvement?


    Group Discussion

    1. Why do many leaders struggle to say “No”?
    2. How did Jesus protect His purpose from distractions?
    3. What practical habits help leaders remain focused?
    4. How do friendships influence leadership success?
    5. Why is physical health important for spiritual leadership?

    Practical Activities

    Activity 1: Conduct a Time Audit

    Record how you spend your time for the next seven days.

    Identify activities that contribute to your purpose and those that distract you.

    Eliminate at least one unnecessary commitment.


    Activity 2: Develop Your Weekly Leadership Plan

    Create a weekly schedule that includes:

    • Daily prayer and Bible study.
    • Personal development.
    • Work priorities.
    • Family time.
    • Physical exercise.
    • Rest and reflection.

    Evaluate your progress at the end of the week.


    Activity 3: Relationship Evaluation

    List your five closest relationships.

    Ask yourself:

    • Do these relationships strengthen or weaken my purpose?
    • Who inspires me to become more like Christ?
    • What unhealthy relationships require healthy boundaries?

    Write one practical step you will take this week.


    Personal Reflection

    • What distractions consume most of my attention?
    • What activities should I stop doing?
    • Who positively shapes my thinking?
    • Am I intentionally protecting my purpose?

    Memory Scripture

    Ephesians 5:15–16

    “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”


    Key Takeaways

    • Focus must be protected through intentional daily habits.
    • Great leaders are not available for everything.
    • Learning to say “No” is essential to fulfilling God’s purpose.
    • Planning helps transform vision into reality.
    • Wise friendships strengthen leadership.
    • A healthy lifestyle enables long-term effectiveness.
    • Excellence is sustained through disciplined living.

    Prayer

    Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to a life of purpose and excellence. Give me the wisdom to distinguish between what is urgent and what is truly important. Help me to protect my calling by saying “No” to every distraction and “Yes” to Your perfect will. Teach me to plan wisely, choose godly relationships and steward my health so that I may serve You faithfully for many years. Let my life reflect discipline, focus and unwavering commitment to the assignment You have entrusted to me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.


    Leadership Challenge

    For the next 30 days, intentionally practise these five focus disciplines:

    1. Guard your availability.
    2. Say “No” to one unnecessary distraction every day.
    3. Begin each morning with a written plan.
    4. Spend more time with people who strengthen your purpose.
    5. Improve one area of your physical or mental health.

    At the end of the month, review your progress and ask yourself:

    “Am I becoming the focused leader God has called me to be?”

    Remember:

    A distracted leader may be busy, but a focused leader changes the world.