4 Attributes of a Leader

This week I attended our Leaders Conference with our Pastor/Bishop Nate Holcomb. Here are 4 attributes of a True Leader

1. Leaders do not brake under pressure. This means they do not allow the pressures of life to determine how they will react. It can be difficult at times as a leader. But one thing is when under pressure we run to the rock. Psalms 91:16 says with long life I will satisfy Him. Jesus said we will run and not be weary, walk and not faint. Many people are running to other objects for relief. We must run to Him.

2. Leaders cannot become bitter with Life. This is one of the greatest attributes about a true leader. We must not become bitter with the process. Isaiah 1:19 we will eat the good of the land if we are willing and obedient. We can eat and be satisfied if we are willing and obedient.

3. Leaders tell the truth and keep their word. Keeping your word and telling the truth is an attribute of a leader. You cannot say you are leading and not keeping your word and telling the truth. The bible tells us the truth will make you free. It's the truth that we must keep. Keeping our word even when it hurts will cause one as a leader to reach their full potential.

4. Leaders have to be patience. Stick to what God has spoken to you. You might have to change or reposition what you are doing, but you must have patience and move on when God instructs you. David asked the Lord, do I pursue my enemy and the Lord answered him one time to wait by the mulberry trees and when you hear the sound of the shuffling of the tress that is when you move. He had to be patience and move when God told him. It might not make sense, but it does make sense to follow God, so move on what He is speaking.

Blessings,

Pastor Mark

Fasting

Fasting is our way of clearing our spiritual channels so that we can acquire clear and precise direction and anwsered prayers. When Daniel fasted for 21 days, the bible tells us his prayer was heard the first time he prayed, but their was warfare in the heavenlies. It was only held up for 21 days, but God answered it.

During this 21 day fast, I encourage every one to paticipate in some form. God hears the prayer of the righteous. Here are some points on fasting.

1. Write down what you are believing God to do in 2012. The bible tells us to make the vision plan.

2. Have a daily confession.

Corporately fasting January 1st, 2012 - January 21st 2012 is much the same precept as praying in the morning to establish the will of God for the entire day. Fasting is a principle that God intended for everyone to be able to enjoy. It's not a punishment; it's a privilege! By making fasting a way of life, you can get closer to God and grow in your spiritual walk like never before.

Fasting is one of the most powerful weapons God has given us for our daily lives. Fasting has to do with your future.As you fast, pray for God's direction and guidance. Focus your faith on your dream and God will show you how you can turn your vision into a reality according to His will.

1. Habakkuk 2:2 tells us to write the vision down. Take time and write down what you are believing God for. . Seek the Lord in prayer and let your decisions about your fast come from Him.

2. Ask the Lord to show you areas to target during your time of fasting and prayer. Start with a clear goal and make a commitment to stick to your fast.

3. Finally be ready to grow in your walk like never before as you seek the Lord through the Biblical principles of prayer and fasting.

FASTING FOCUS SCRIPTURES
Matthew 6:33, Isaiah 58:6

Corporate Fasting: 2 Chronicles 20:34, Joel 2:15-16, Acts 27:33-37

TYPES OF FASTS (consult with your doctor prior to starting)

• Full Fast - drink liquids only (you establish number of days) consult with your Doctor
• Daniel Fast - (see below)
  
• 3 Day Fast - This can be any type of Fast
• Partial Fast - 6am - 3pm or sun up to sun down. This can be any type also (full, Daniel, partial, 3 day)

GUIDELINES FOR DANIEL FAST
(Foods We May Eat)
Whole Grains: Brown Rice, Oats, Barley
Legumes: Dried Beans, Pinto Beans, Split Peas, Lentils, Black Eyed
Peas
Fruits: Apples, Apricots, Bananas, Blackberries, Blueberries, Boysenberries,
Cantaloupe, Cherries, Cranberries, Oats, Figs, Grapefruit, Grapes, Guava,
Honeydew Melon, Kiwi, Lemons, Limes, Mangoes, Nectarines, Papayas,
Peaches, Pears, Pineapples, Plums, Prunes, Raisins, Raspberries,
Strawberries, Tangelos, Tangerines, Watermelon
Vegetables: Artichokes, Asparagus, Beets, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts,
Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Chili Peppers, Corn, Cucumbers,
Eggplant, Garlic, Gingerroot, Kale, Leeks, Lettuce, Mushrooms, Mustard Greens,
Okra, Onions, Parsley, Potatoes, Radishes, Rutabagas, Scallions, Spinach,
Sprouts, Squashes, Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes, Turnips, Watercress, Yams, Zucchini
Seeds, Nuts, Sprouts
Liquids: Water

(Foods to Avoid)
Meat
White Rice
Fried Foods
Caffeine
Carbonated Beverages
Foods Containing Preservatives or Additives
Refined Sugar
Sugar Substitutes
White Flour and All Products Using It
Margarine, Shortening, High Fat Products