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When everything seems uncertain... or simply crazy... how do you maintain peace, confidence and certainty?

This clip was taken from the annual Heaven in Business conference. To watch more, and join the growing global community engaging with God at work, see Heaveninbusiness.com/Free-Trial

kingdombusiness #confidence #certainty #uncertainty #secure #purpose #focus #unsettled

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Recently a friend asked Andy, "How do you personally know that God is real? Not theology, not philosophy, not trying to convince others. But how do you know for yourself?"

That question has been stirring for a couple weeks, so Andy recorded his response and now you get to hear from Janine.

Andy and Janine have been married for 25 years and have followed the voice of God from New Zealand to Redding, CA and more recently to New Hope, Pennsylvania.

If you want to grow as a follower of Jesus in your work, join us online to grow in identity, assignment, culture and influence. See https://www.heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

testimony #god #faithjourney #faithchallenge #godsnotdead #hearinggod

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Recently we hosted our first Heaven in Business Strategic Retreat. in this episode I summarize what happened, what I learned and what we are doing differently as a result.

1. What happenedWe had 20 business leaders from across the USA meet us in Pennsylvania for three days. The first day we visited Sight and Sound Theater in Lancaster, PA. We got to tour backstage seeing the design, construction and execution of world-class shows that serve 2,000 people, 11 times a week for about 40 weeks a year! We were pleasantly shocked by the level of excellence from the moment you drive into the property through to the live animals that participate in the shows, to the intricate detail of the sets. We then got to experience the show of Moses (more on that later) followed by lunch and discussion in the story-room with the executive team, talking culture and Presence-based-leadership and how they hear God for solutions, strategies and the next show! We then headed to a catered dinner at the home of a local business friend.

The second day we heard the remarkable revival history and interweaving stories of William Wilberforce and William Penn and William Tennant... and Count Zinzendorf and the Moravians... and the holy experiment that IS Pennsylvania. We then unpacked the science behind cultural change (John Seel and his book Network Power) learning how a handful of highly committed people can and have changed global culture. With minds full we then went into the Life Center prayer house with Bob Perry and Lou Engle got centered back on the voice of God. And if that wasn't enough we had teams of prophetic people from Global Awakening give us rotating prophetic booths for over an hour in the evening. 

The final day we called an audible and headed down to the Capitol Building where we were gifted with a tour of the governors office, the senate and house chambers with the phenomenal art telling foretelling the story and prophecy of William Penn for this state. We then did mastermind groups unpacking key actions for each participant followed by impartation and launch!

1. What I learnedTo say that I was somewhat overwhelmed is an understatement. We have yet to gather the participants in a followup call to debrief learning and subsequent application. So here's my attempt as some of the key points:

2. You are part of a story that is WAY bigger than you

3. You are not the lead role of that story... Jesus is
4. The quicker you yield your perceived control of the lead role, the easier it will be
5. You will never fully understand... TRUST is key
6. Don't try to connect all the dots; collect them
7. A handful of highly committed and resourced individuals with a clear focus can literally change society (and have done!)
8. If we truly trust God and believe His word we will take more risk... AND BE MORE PATIENT. This is a long term game - it is agricultural/organic in nature, not mechanical.
9. History is important. Prophecy is important. Jesus joins both, so stay close to Him.
10. It's time to awaken the soil - the Holy seed = the heritage and legacy you stand on and were grafted into

11. When you know how loved you are, you never feel insignificant (and avoid the pitfalls of comparison)

12. What I'm Doing Differently...I find myself revisiting learning on a daily basis. The key points are coming up in multiple conversations. In many ways the learning further confirmed the direction we are already headed and raised the volume of that which is most important.

=> Be more patient in the journey (increase intentional joy-activities)

Side point: Interestingly I heard a podcast with Jordan Peterson talking about physiological wellbeing is strengthened by writing down past trauma and your future vision (frees you from past and give future hope/focus) and cognitive wellbeing is strengthened by regular physical exercise (your brain is about 2% bodyweight but consumes >20% energy!)

=> Don't change the subject

Know and stay in your lane/assignment. Celebrate, encourage and strengthen others in their lane but don't leave your priorities. Avoid Christian co-dependance (event based lifestyle, living to the lowest common denominator and 'if you're not ok then I'm not ok')

=> Protect and prioritize key relationships 

Identify those running alongside you, just in front of you and those you are given to lead and nurture. Don't get distracted with bright and shiny 'new' relationships. Commit to discipleship (receiving and giving). Think long term. 

If this has been of value for you, join the global community growing with God at work and engaging in the wellbeing of the cities we serve. FMI Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial. Alternatively, join us in person at an upcoming event near you Heaveninbusiness.com/events

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What do you do when you don't have time to pray? Listen as James Goll gives us grace and encouragement...

1. Give grace to yourself

2. Change your vocabulary

3. Your spirit never slumbers or sleeps

4. Every prayer matters and every sacrifice counts

5. The God-worked-in-prayer that avails much

6. The anointing of GRACE and supplication (prayer) Zechariah 12:10

From 7:11min James has some prophetic words/words of knowledge for listeners... Find out more on James Goll at https://godencounters.com/

jamesgoll #prayer #toobusy #shortprayers #christianbusiness

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In this podcast I introduce James Goll who gives us some great keys on what qualifies you to be a great leader and why Israel is such a big deal for followers of Jesus.

James is giving away his120-page study guide that you can download Heaveninbusiness.com/JamesGoll

JAMES W. GOLL is the founder of God Encounters Ministries, formerly known as Encounters Network. He is an international bestselling author, a certified Life Language Coach, an adviser to leaders and ministries, and a recording artist.

With great joy James has traveled around the world ministering in more than 50 nations sharing the love of Jesus, imparting the power of intercession, prophetic ministry, and life in the Spirit. His passion is to “win for the Lamb the rewards of His suffering.” In the spirit of revival and reformation, James desires to facilitate unity in body of Christ by relationally networking with leaders of various denominational streams. Praying for Israel is a burden of his heart, as Israel fulfills her role in the consummation of the ages.

He has recorded numerous classes with corresponding curriculum kits and is the author of more than fifty books, including The Seer, The Prophet, The Discerner, The Lost Art of Intercession, Praying with God’s Heart, and Revival Breakthrough. James is also the founder of GOLL Ideation LLC, where creativity, consulting, and leadership training come together.

James was married to Michal Ann for thirty-two years before her graduation to heaven in the fall of 2008. He has four adult married children and a growing number of grandchildren. James continues to make his home in Franklin, Tennessee.

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Last week a friend text me "Andy, how do you personally know that God is real? Not theology, not philosophy, not trying to convince others. But how do you know for yourself?" My answer took all of one minute as I picked up the phone and recorded a short voice memo. The thoughts have been rattling around my head since then so I figured I'd let you in on some of them. This is my story.

How do I know God is real?

1. I thought I didMy parents became authentic followers of Jesus when I was a toddler. Their primary reason was to find some help parenting! (I'm sure that was for my older brother, not me...). Consequently I grew up in a family where scripture reading around the family table, and Sunday church and Friday night youth group, were part of the norm. Alcohol was very rare and although I remember being disciplined at home, I don't recall any harsh words between my parents growing up.

When I was seven I invited my mother into my bedroom as I knelt at a low table and invited Jesus to be my personal Savior and Lord. During school holidays I attended Christian camps - CBMC in Raglan and Adventure Camps at Waikanae, New Zealand. I remember choosing to do optional bible studies by correspondence in between to win prizes for completion. When I was 13 I chose to get water baptized in my local church. By the time I was a junior in high school, I had a solid knowledge of scripture, surrounded by wonderful mentors and leaders who exemplified authentic Christian living. I had experienced a few cycling, road-related escapes from death and hearing the voice of God.

Then I left home - the sheltered community of support and godly structure, and was accepted for a two-year cadetship on a 12,000 acre ranch (farm) to be trained as a shepherd (horse, dogs, sheep, cattle...). This was boarding with 19 other young men and the conversations were primarily around rugby, beer, boobs and butts... Alcohol consumption was a badge of achievement - how much you could drink before passing out. Sexual conquests were proudly broadcast, and fed by a constant stream of porn videos and magazines. And me having a devoted religious stance, being a virgin, and not gay was a shock.

So they confronted, challenged, tested and pushed me to see if what I believed was real.

1. I asked for moreI was challenged by some awkward and some genuine questions. Being outside my safe and protected zone, I had to find out for myself rather than relying on a childhood experience or that of my parents. So, along with my Michael W. Smith and Steve Grace casette tapes, my bible, the audio book of God's Generals by Roberts Liardon and my guitar I prayed "God if you are real, I want to know you more."

That's when things got real.

I would be riding my horse in the New Zealand hill country and 'get' songs that inspired and encouraged me.

I would be sitting in my room playing guitar and feel an external warmth that washed over my neck and back.

I would be reading scripture and certain verses would stand out and then happen before my eyes. One was "My enemies laid a trap for me... and have fallen into it themselves" (see Psalm 57:6).

1. I grew in favor with God and man4. I have a heritage of fearing God - walking in His ways, learning His voice, seeing His powerSo what about you? What is the reason for the hope you have? And if you don't have hope, here's how to access it... It's really simple, as a mentor of mine said "God wants you so badly He made the conditions so simple... only believe." It goes something like this:

Pray with me...

"Father I come to you in Jesus Name.

Thank you for loving me.

Thank you for sending Jesus to die on the cross for all of my sin, shame and brokenness.

I acknowledge I have sinned and fallen short of your best life for me.

I ask you to be my Savior: to forgive me and cleanse me and make me new.

I invite you to be my Lord: to live with me and lead me and show me Your way.

I ask you to send your Holy Spirit to baptise me with your love and lead me in all truth.

I commit to seeking your Kingdom first in all things.

Thank you!"

If you prayed this for the first time I encourage you to reach out to some authentic christian friends, find a local bible-believing church and start to grow in your journey of being a follower of Jesus. Don't hesitate to reach out to us with your questions or comments andy@heaveninbusiness.com.

If you want to grow as a follower of Jesus in your work, join us online to grow in identity, assignment, culture and influence. See Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

Until next time!

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Brandon M. Showalter is a journalist and podcaster with The Christian Post who has reported extensively on topics of theological interest in the Church; bioethics issues such as euthanasia, assisted suicide, artificial reproductive technology, and surrogacy; and the developments of the "gender identity" movement and transgender ideology.

He was first inspired to pursue into a career in writing and journalism while mopping floors and scrubbing toilets as a church custodian in April 2015.

He earned a bachelor's degree in international studies and Spanish from Bridgewater College of Virginia in 2007, a Master of Arts in human rights from The Catholic University of America in 2022, and is a fellow of the John Jay Institute for Faith, Society, & Law. He is also a graduate (class of 2015) of a three-year, non-degree program at Bethel School of Ministry in Redding, California.

His favorite thing to do in life is to sing.

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When was the last time you leaned in for some deep spiritual growth?

Last month I asked a national faith and work leader I trust, what his suggestions were for me to grow. He told me a couple things then suggested I jump in on the momentum of more than one million Christians fasting and praying for 21 days May.

What??!!! More than ONE MILLION PEOPLE already committed to fasting and prayer? I wanted to know more.

Now, if you haven't been a praying person or you don't regularly pray for a country, don't stop here. Read on and it will all make sense. The key is, we want to grow in our intimacy and connection with God and we want to be part of what He is doing in the earth in our day.

So I followed the link to Isaiah62fast.com and listened to Mike Bickle, the founder of International House of Prayer. He spoke about what the Lord said to him and the real, existential threats to the nation of Israel and how this had blown up to over a million intercessors committed to fast and pray one hour a day for 21 days in May.

So, here's the story and an invitation for you to join us.

1. Join the weekly prayer (one hour, once a week) with Heaven in Business, OR

2. Find out more about the Isaiah62fast.com and go all-in for the daily prayer with one of the hubs, OR

3. Join us for a strategic retreat in Pennsylvania in May 17-19

Regardless of what you do, please engage in something extra with God this month and be found growing in faith, hope and love! Find out more HeaveninBusiness.com/global-prayer

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Do you want less stress, more flow and higher productivity that you can sustain? Then listen and watch!

Dave Charlson has over 24 years business development experience. He was a mortgage banker for 16 years He has spent the past 10 years developing products for the pet industry and has created, branded and established sales for two products that have generated 16 million in revenue.( David's cat litter testimony is featured in Chapter 1 of "God With You at Work", by Andy Mason) He is currently CEO & President of North American Sales for Authentic Sales LLC, his pet product sales and marketing company.

Dave is all about creating safe places for business people to be vulnerable and real about their struggles and brokering the truth of heaven in exchange for their limiting beliefs and fears.  He does this by attracting God's presence with his dedication to extreme joy filled vulnerability and boldly sharing radical testimonies.

Dave also coaches a select group of executives across the United States. He has been heavily involved with Heaven with Business since January 2013 including speaking at conferences and executive retreats. 

David is happily married to his wife Michele and has 4 adult children. David is one of the Heaven in Business advisory team and you can see more Heaveninbusiness.com/About.

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When it all boils down, why do you do what you do? Here's a story that highlights this and my personal story of sorting through why I REALLY do what I do and then how to break that down into something I can focus on - lead metrics compared to lag metrics. 

"An American executive arrived on a beach on a beautiful island. The executive strolled down the beach and noticed a fisherman rowing in to the shore. His boat was chock full of fish and the executive asked him what he was doing. The fisherman replied, “I’ve been fishing because I love it. And now I’m going to have a BBQ on the beach with my friends. I’ll play guitar and sing and hang out on the beach and then in the evening I will dine with my wife under the stars.”“That’s crazy,” says the executive. “You’ve caught so many fish! I can invest in you and we’ll sell the fish and make a ton of money!”“Why would I want to do that?” Said the fisherman. “Well, in a few months we could invest the profits and buy a bigger boat and make even more money,” said the executive. “Why would I want to do that?” Said the fisherman. “Well in a few years we could invest the profits and open a factory on the beach and process our own fish and make even more money,” said the executive. “Why would I want to do that?” Said the fisherman. “Well with all the profits from that you could eventually retire early. And then you could go fishing just because you love it. And then you could have a bbq on the beach with your friends. And you could play guitar and sing and hang out on the beach. And then in the evening dine with your wife under the stars...” Why do you do what you do? How would you know? What would the people around you say about why you do what you do? Is that really worth it? Listen to the podcast or watch on the Heaven in Business youtube channel, then join us at Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial to grow in what is most important.

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What is the fear of God and why is it so important? What happens to believers, or anyone for that matter, who don't have the fear of God?

Listen in to this podcast as Andy interviews John Bevere on his new book, The Awe of God. You will hear some powerful stories behind the book and the greatest benefit to business people who embrace the spirit of the fear of the Lord. Listen through to the end to receive the prayer John Bevere will pray over you.

Grab your copy of The Awe of God on John's website here - JohnBevere.com/AweofGod

If you are wanting to further your walk with God at work, then check out the Heaven in Business resources, events and online learning community at Heaveninbusiness.com.

You can watch this episode on youtube at the Heaven in Business channel here - https://youtu.be/h5plZmdJAOU

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It all started on an early morning flight from Canada heading home to California. I had been a guest speaker at a conference alongside Steve and Wendy Backlund, who are people of great hope and faith. (IgnitingHope.com) Up early after long days and late nights of ministry, my plan was to try and catch up on some sleep while on the first of my flights. It wasn’t to be.

I kept finding myself ‘interrupted’ by some of the most ridiculously faith-filled thoughts I’d ever had. Having never had such a stream of thoughts before I was determined to capture them and I kept opening my eyes to write another of the impossibility-defying ideas down.

The phrase my thoughts all had in common was, ‘It’s entirely possible..’ As I somewhat reluctantly engaged with the flow of thoughts and ideas about how good God is and also how powerful, I realized that there is literally nothing that doesn’t go at the end of that phrase. He, as His word says, is able to do exceedingly, abundantly more than we can ask or even imagine. I can imagine pretty big so what He can do is always bigger than that.

He is so loving toward me that it’s entirely possible that I will encounter that love today in a powerful, life-changing way. Why not?

He is so full of power and authority that it’s entirely possible that my friend in the hospital gets healed and sent home today.

Read this as a blog at - https://www.heaveninbusiness.com/blog/its-entirely-possible

Watch as youtube post here - https://youtu.be/sjq5snl2eks

In addition to being an outstanding mom of four powerful young adults, Janine Mason's super power is asking highly perceptive questions that quickly reveal the heart of the matter. For the last two decades Janine has been Andy's strategic business, personal and life advisor (and best friend)!

Janine's background is in horticultural consulting and adult education. She is also an accomplished life coach working with individuals and small groups. Janine has authored multiple books including Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life and Kingdom Tools for Teaching: Heavenly Strategies for Real Classrooms.

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This podcast is an interview with scientific researchers, Dr Joshua and Dr Candy Brown. Joshua was diagnosed with brain tumor and Candy had a dream in which God gave her the key to deliverance and healing of her husband. What happened over the next five months was a wild and crazy journey learning about healing and deliverance and then experiencing their own miracle.

This then led to the formation of Global Medical Research Institute which researches then publishes evidence of healing miracles, in scientific journals! Find out more at GlobalMRI.org.

In this session, Dr Joshua and Dr Candy refer resources on healing and deliverance:

• Book: Free in Christ by Pablo Battari

• Global Awakening Dr Randy Clark Healing

• Christian Healing Ministries Judith MacNutt

• Orbis Ministries Ken Fish Healing and Deliverance

• Chavda Ministries

• Bethel Church and Healing Rooms

• HUB Ministries Chicago

• Scientific Papers Documenting Healing

Who are Dr's Joshua and Candy Brown?Joshua Brown (PhD, Boston University) is a Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Cognitive Science, and Neuroscience at Indiana University. He serves as director of the graduate Program in Neuroscience, director of the Cognitive Control lab at Indiana University, where he uses a combination of functional brain imaging and computational neuroscience methods to understand higher brain function in healthy individuals as well as clinical populations. His research has been featured on NPR, the Discovery channel, and numerous other media outlets. Dr. Brown has published over 80 peer-reviewed scientific publications and is an internationally recognized expert on the neural bases of higher cognitive function. He also serves as director of the Global Medical Research Institute (GMRI, www.globalmri.org), a separate 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to medical and scientific investigations of claimed miraculous healings through prayer. Since his experience of a life threatening brain tumor in 2003 and subsequent healing, he has traveled the world with various healing ministries, and he works with GMRI to research and publish peer-reviewed reports of remarkable healing through prayer.

Candy Gunther Brown (Ph.D. Harvard University) is Professor of Religious Studies at Indiana University. Dr. Brown writes, speaks, and teaches about Global Christianity, with a focus on prayer for healing and deliverance from evil spirits. She is currently writing a biography of the Catholic Charismatic Francis MacNutt (1925-2020) and a book on Demonology and Deliverance for which she is traveling to observe and compare practices in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, Ghana, and Brazil.

Dr. Brown’s unique perspective is that of an academically trained researcher who also has personal experience with healing prayer. It all started in 2003 when her husband—a neuroscience professor—was diagnosed with a brain tumor, delivered from demons, and miraculously healed. Ever since then, the couple has been praying for others, observing dramatic recoveries, using scientific methods to document results, and publishing their findings.

Candy Brown is author of The Word in the World: Evangelical Writing, Publishing, and Reading in America, 1789-1880 (University of North Carolina Press, 2004); Testing Prayer: Science and Healing (Harvard University Press, 2012); The Healing Gods: Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Christian America(Oxford University Press, 2013); and Debating Yoga and Mindfulness in Public Schools: Reforming Secular Education or Reestablishing Religion? (University of North Carolina Press, 2019). She is editor of Global Pentecostal and Charismatic Healing (Oxford University Press, 2011), and co-editor (with Mark Silk) of The Future of Evangelicalism in America (Columbia University Press, 2016).

Media coverage includes The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, Interfaith Voices, Tricycle: The Buddhist Review, National Catholic Register, Charisma, and Christianity Today.

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Have you ever been concerned you could miss out on revival or what God may be doing? Be encouraged as you listen or watch as Andy and Janine unpack what is happening, what you can do about it (wherever you are) and they are personally doing to lean into what God is doing around the world right now.

asbury #revival #renewal #fomo #faithandwork #fearoffailure

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This interview was recorded on the day Shae Bynes launched her updated and expanded edition of Grace Over Grind - how grace will take your business where grinding can't. In this conversation we go behind the story of the book, what Shae had to overcome in learning how to walk with God at work and the results.

Shae Bynes is a passionate storyteller, teacher, and mentor whose life and business was completely transformed through the power of encountering the unrelenting love of God. Her heart is to see marketplace leaders and families that are courageous, connected, and aligned with Kingdom purpose.   Shae is the Founder and Chief Fire Igniter of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur where she inspires, teaches, and mentors Christian entrepreneurs to be led by God in their businesses so they can experience His best and have a greater Kingdom impact in the marketplace. Together with her husband and high school sweetheart Phil, Shae helps couples strengthen their marriages by cultivating true intimacy through the power and love of God. Shae is the proud mother of 3 beautiful daughters and lives in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area.

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We don't live by best practice or a business plan alone, we live by the word of God that we are listening for day by day (see Matthew 4:4). Here's Andy AND Janine sharing HOW we hear, WHAT we are hearing and how we are applying that to all that we do.

1. How do we hear?We have a daily spiritual discipline of engaging with God in the Scriptures. This is one of the primary places and times God speaks (we are fully listening!). I then journal what I am hearing and often we discuss that as we walk the dogs around our neighborhood. This often results in more questions and interaction, such as Janine suggesting I was believing lies about "the crowd." That immediately resulted in a dialogue with the Holy Spirit, as we were walking, in which I repented of believing lies and got a new mandate which you can listen to on podcast episode #166.

We also regularly engage with our local church, listen to podcasts and intentionally go to conferences and events that expose us to what God may be speaking on a regional or national basis. Recently we got to experience our first conference at Life Center in Harrisburg and I was greatly impacted by the messages from Todd White and Bishop Joseph Garlington. This was a wonderful time of listening, receiving and connecting with like-minded believers that encourage and inspire us in faith, love and good deeds!

In addition to the above, we are talking with business people around the world on a daily basis and each week have a live call with the Heaven in Business community where there are themes of what God is saying and doing, that become apparent.

1. What are we Hearing? Get going! God is with us. It's time to move on from here and advance, grow, expand, influence, take risk BECAUSE God is with us.

Exodus 33:1 and 14 - Get going and I will go with you

It's no longer business as usual. Don't just continue with what you were doing before, even if that was working. Pause and listen to the Holy Spirit and ask for new insight or strategy or focus or favor!

The time for favor is now. 2 Corinthians 6 and Ruth 2 - Ask for favor in the time of favor and the time of favor is now.

You've got nothing to prove and nothing to lose. Stop comparing. YOU BE YOU and get going with what is inside YOU!

1. How are we Applying what we are Hearing?We are intentionally leaning in, learning, refining strategy and taking risk to expand. We started videoing our weekly podcast and you can subscribe to the youtube channel (See below). We were GIVEN brand new video camera and microphone and took this last weekend to paint the office, setting it up as a working studio.

We are asking Holy Spirit regarding all our weekly activities (live Heaven in Business call for example) and our upcoming events to listen for specific strategies and insights. For the Birmingham workshop coming up, we leaned in for speicific strategy how to do our marketing - the result was a significant jump in registrations in one weekend.

We are testing our favor by reaching out to old and new contacts and exploring new possibilities. One of these is the Africa Adventure Missions trip in September. Another is a possible workshop in the UK and Germany in October. We are reviewing favor in connections we have had in the (recent) past and making sure those relationships are strong and valued.

We are catching ourselves where we are making excuses or fear-based statements and remembering 'we have nothing to prove and nothing to lose' and GOING FOR IT.

So watch this space!

If you want to join us in the momentum, try out seven days for free on HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

AND if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to email andy@heaveninbusiness.com

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How could a viking, addict and infidel be embraced as the friend of hostile Muslim leaders and eventually win the International Peace Award in 2022? Listen to the story as Andy interviews Leif Hetland. Make sure you watch to the end to receive a powerful spiritual blessing from Leif.

Find out more about Leif at https://globalmissionawareness.com/

Find out more about the April event at https://www.heaveninbusiness.com/events

You are invited to join us in-person at the 2023 Heaven in Business conference in Atlanta, GA, April 20-22nd. See link above to find out more.

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A couple episodes back we talked about having and listening to wise counsel. This is the best strategy to keep you from doing or being stupid. If you keep wise counsel close you will make better decisions, stay focused, have more joy and finish strong. So... how do you FIND wise counsel?

Story 1 - New to country finding wise counsel - good and bad experience

Story 2 - New to location finding wise counsel - slow(?) experience

When I refer to wise counsel I am looking for practical wisdom with eternity in mind. In other words, I'm not simply looking for the best principles of the world; I'm looking for godly wisdom. With this in mind I am looking for three things:

1. Excellent at what is goodDo they have a reputation (which has nothing to do with platform or 'likes') for being really good at what they do? Have they invested in their own growth? Are they still growing? Would you buy goods or services from them? Are they good at their craft?

2. Innocent of evilDo they have godly character, proven over time? What is their relationship like with those closest to them (spouse, children, parents..). How do they treat the people around them and around you - the personal assistant, your spouse or children, the janitor, the server...? Do they leave you feeling more or less energized? Do they leave you feeling more or less built up? Do they make you feel stronger or weaker?

3. Evidence of a walk with GodWhat is the current evidence of their authentic walk with God? What are they hearing Him say? Are they engaged with a community of believers? 

4. Do they have wrinkles?Wrinkles are evidence of life experience: Don't ask an 18 year old for relationship advice. Generally speaking, the more mature people are, the more perspective they have on life because they have been around long enough to see fads and fashions come and go. They have observed life. As long as they are secure in themselves, and anchored in the fear of the Lord, they will have some great perspective for you.

5. Do they have body scars?Are the scars septic or clean? If they still ooze toxic offense and bitterness then stay far far away. And if they don't have any body scars, they are not a guide - they haven't overcome their own challenges and are not qualified to guide you in yours. Anyone that has built anything significant - a marriage, a family, a business... WILL have body scars. These are difficulties or challenges they have had to overcome in order to build. And in doing so they have gained wisdom and perseverance and patience and perspective. Listen to those people!

So where can you find wise counsel?1. Proven professionals - these are the ones you pay for. Their reputation and reviews, follow them. You find them by asking around your community... "Who do you know that is excellent at... can give me advice on...." And be prepared to pay for it. 

1. Business network and development groups

2. City fathers and mothers (not the position or title... the function)

3. Seasoned AND joyful church members

4. Heaven in Business and other like-minded organizations

Finally - ALWAYS Check - "You are going out as lambs amongst wolves. So be as innocent as a dove and innocent as a dove." DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE. Don't assume. Check the references and reputation. 

And if you would like to work with one of the Heaven in Business advisory team, contact them out by scrolling down on the https://www.heaveninbusiness.com/about page.

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Last week I visited Asbury University in Kentucky where a student chapel service that started on Wednesday has continued, non-stop. I’m going to tell you my experience there, plus what else is happening and how you can engage.

In addition to Asbury KY, Janine and I did a Heaven in business workshop in Washington, DC and joined our first Bethel Leaders Network regional call, hearing testimonies from the upper north east of America. On top of all that I was in Indianapolis participating in a healing and deliverance conference with Ken Fish. Here’s what is happening, what I am hearing and what you need to do as a result.

You are invited to be part of this awakening and there are no exceptions. All you need do is say “YES” and put on the daily life that Jesus gave you access to (read Galatians 5). No excuses.

See full show notes what to stop doing, start doing and keep doing at Heaveninbusiness.com/blog/no-more-excuses

Access these resources to help:There are many resources to help you grow in your walk with God. Here’s two sources that I know and trust personally because I have personally used them.

Orbis Ministries (Ken Fish)

• Weekly podcast (free) where Ken interviews people all around the world who are walking in the power of God. God is Not a Theory
• Online resources to identify and grow in spiritual gifts: hearing God, healing the sick, prophecy and deliverance

Mike Connell Ministries (New Zealand)

Even after being at Bethel Church in Redding, CA for over a decade and experiencing countless world-renowned ministers I still come back to Mike Connell as an outstandingly gifted teacher to ground you in scripture and impartation to operate in the Kingdom of God. Not only that but all Mike’s resources are FREE. Here’s a few that you can download, read and listen to…

• The Kingdom of God
• Healing the sick
• Deliverance

Heaven in Business - practical tools to partner with God at work and engage in the wellbeing of your city

And if you are in a profession or business and want to grow all of this in the context of your assignment in the workplace, join Heaven in business online (check it out for free) or in-person. We also work with a small number of highly committed people as part of a mastermind group or individual advisory. EMAIL ME if you want to know more. andy@heaveninbusiness.com

No more excuses.

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Last episode I made a confession to live up to who God says I am rather than making excuses or hiding or deferring to others. That's all false humility and is not helping anyone. On the other side, how do you keep yourself from getting too full of yourself and ending up in failure?

I believe we are on the cusp of another great awakening that is happening all over the world, right now! So as we step and into more of what God does on and through us, beyond our own ability, how do we stay humble and finish strong?

Step one - if you are in business or lead any organization, read this:

I highly recommend you read the Jim Collins book, How The Mighty Fall, to see the evidential pathway to failure (THAT WE CAN AVOID!) At least read the summary HERE:

1. Hubris born of success - "We are awesome. Look at me." Overinflated view of self.
2. Undisciplined pursuit of more - "We can succeed at anything, so we will..." Take on multiple tasks, objectives outside core strength and vision (or lack thereof).
3. Denial of Risk and Peril - "We don't have a problem." Blaming others or ignoring the feedback. External momentum has pushed company to great height(s).
4. Grasping for salvation - "This new product/leader/market/culture... will turn this around." Refusing to own the problem and return to core competency(ies).
5. Capitulation to irrelevance or death - The end

So what's the solution?

Some of my Christian friends would say "stay connected to Christ" or "stay in the Presence." Only problem is, I have read about Judas who couldn't have been more connected Christ, yet failed monumentally.

Then there's Lucifer who was the arch-angel of worship; literally surrounding the throne and directing praise and worship in Heaven. I cannot see how anyone could be closer to the Presence of God - the wonder and awe and amazement as angels and heavenly beings cry holy, holy, holy... Yet he still succumbed to the hubris born of success and failed eternally.

Another solution is to pursue wisdom and understanding. The only problem there is that the wisest person in the world - Solomon, failed to heed his own instruction and failed miserably.

Hmmmm....

So I need to have someone who will adjust me?

Great idea! Yet Judas was an example of having the best discipleship on the planet, yet still chose to profit himself first, and ended terminally...

Solomon looked so successful on the outside and was the wisest person in the world, and the entire nation was prospering ridiculously under his leadership.... He would have been very difficult to confront/adjust in the momentum of his success.

And confronting Lucifer... or the most seemingly successful worship leader in history, would have been interesting. How many gifted or anointed leaders (in ministry or in business or in government...) have been easy to confront in the midst of their success?

So should I stay small and avoid success?

NO!!!! Unacceptable. That is partnering with fear and robbing the world and your friends of who you are. Go back and listen to last episode to deal with that thought.

So what is the solution?

How do I ensure I step up fully in who I am called to be and knock it out of the park (ie. do awesome) and not allow awesome to sabotage my finish?

The story of David is a great lesson to help us. He was incredibly anointed and gifted. He had epic success after years of wilderness discipleship. Then, at the heights of his success, when nothing he did looked like it could fail, David failed more than most people in a lifetime. He lusted after the wife of one of his most loyal and skilled mighty men. While his mighty man was fighting the King's battle, David took his wife, got her pregnant and then tried to manipulate the circumstances to cover it up. When the fiercely loyal soldier refused to be manipulated, David had him murdered. If that's not all, he failed to confront the poor character of his sons and his military leaders, resulting in murder, rape, treason and a divided kingdom. Ouch.

Yet history records David as a friend of God and that Jesus is the son of David? Acts reports that he fulfilled the purpose of God in his generation. Hmmm.... I'd give him a 'B' at best.

So what can we learn from David?

David didn't just have people around him to speak up. He listened. He was confront-able. He adjusted. Not at first. Sometimes he needed a metaphoric story to get the message, or a lot of pain before he could understand his error. But he responded. And God credited that to him. And he finished... mostly strong. HIs story is right there in all its unedited mess to teach us something.

WILL. YOU. LISTEN?

David had Samuel and Nathan. They were prophets and Nathan was considered to have studied under Samuel and become King David's court appointed prophet - advisor to the King on personal and national issues.

But I think the best kept secret is will you listen to your spouse? At the end of David's life, he is about to choose stupid again by avoiding to confront one of his son's who is usurping the Kings succession plan. Then Nathan AND BATHSHEBA confront David.... and David listened.

So do we have a solution to stay strong and avoid failure?

Yes we do. Is it foolproof? No, regardless of how many powerful voices you are listening to and how close you are to the Presence of God you still have within you the power to choose stupid. The only guaranteed pathway is to stay tenderhearted in the process. How do you do that? Ask me in ten years time.

Here's what I know:

1. Stay close to God... and constantly growing. When was the last time you were convicted of living less than what He has called you to? How are you responding? When was the last time you were humbled by HIs greatness, goodness or power? Stay in awe of Him.

2. Daily word and prayer (no excuses)

3. Fasting...???!
4. Worship, and especially engaging in corporate worship experiences
5. Journal what you are hearing Him say

6. Reflect on what you have heard and what you are doing differently

7. Choose to have wise counselor(s) in your 'court'

8. Give them power to speak, anytime... and to your stakeholders

9. Be intentionally vulnerable and consistently regular in connecting with them

10. Listen in next week as we talk about how to find and walk with wise counselors and/or a band of brothers (or sisters)

11. Listen to your spouse (or your closest leader/parent-figure)

12. Ask for feedback, listen and ponder it before responding

13. Beware your expertise or success doesn't make you deaf and render them dumb... or you will suffer the consequences
14. Ask yourself:
    • Who can give me feedback?
    • Who can disagree with me and change the way I see things?
    • How easy is it for those around me to speak up?
    • When was the last time someone confronted me? Would they do it again?
    • AM.I.LISTENING?

Congratulations on reading to the end of this blog! Please add your comments and share this with others who would find it valuable. And, as always, don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or comments to andy@HeaveninBusiness.com

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Last week I got my first speeding ticket in a long time and it was a big one. But that's not what I want to talk about. Something has changed in January 2023 and I am convinced it's God-time. Here's what's happening, how God is convicting me and how it applies to you.

1. What's happening - UpgradesIn the last month we are seeing the 'lid' come off. We are not doing anything differently of ourselves but something has changed. This podcast is up 40% on the best month last year. We have travelled to two influential cities meeting and ministering to business leaders of leaders. We have some new connections that automatically upgraded our platform and favor (including sending us high quality audio visual equipment to upgrade the recording of this podcast!) And yesterday I was in a studio recording some Kingdom Business sessions that will be heading to Brazil....

On top of that, in-person events have opened right up with Washington DC, Birmingham AL, Atlanta GA, Portland OR, Destin FL, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Australia all saying "YES!"

And then the last couple weeks of our live calls with the Heaven in Business membership community have highlighted phrases such as Exodus 33:1 and 33:14:

"Get going!"

"I will go with you."

So what's happening? The lid has come off, nations are opening up, we are growing on every side.

1. What's the Problem - Self-SabotageSo in all of this am I not simply rejoicing and scrambling to meet the growing demand? Well, sort of! I was talking with a friend last week telling him what was happening and he caught me minimizing, deflecting and using humor to hide from what is unfolding. When I remember where I have come from or focus on my inadequacies I feel way out of my depth. I feel uncomfortable with the level of favor that God is pouring out. I feel scared that I might screw it up by saying or doing something stupid.

Where did that come from? I could blame what others have done or said or justify it by my upbringing... "I a small town country boy from a small country at the bottom of the world..."

And what hit me was that all this fear and false humility and self-protecting was DISHONORING and DESPISING the goodness and grace (and glory) of God on my life.

I will never step into all He has for me if I will not fully embrace who He says I am.

It's all about identity.

One of my life verses is Isaiah 55:5 that the Lord re-emphasized at the end of 2022:

"Surely you shall call a nation you do not know,And nations who do not know you shall run to you,Because of the LORD your God,And the Holy One of Israel;For He has glorified you.”

What's the point? The increase is because God has glorified me (upgraded, elevated, granted me favor and access and increase...). That still feels awkward saying it. And... if I don't get ok with it, I will reject what He is wanting to clothe me with in order to step into what He has assigned for me. In other words, it's not about me!

So I was behaving like the guy in the parable that Jesus told of a wedding feast...

In Matthew 22 Jesus tells a parable illustrating the Kingdom of Heaven. A King holds a wedding feast for his son. He sent out invitations but all those initially invited ignored or rejected the invitation, even killing some of the messengers. The King was furious and destroyed the murderers and their town. Then the King sent out his servants to simply invite everyone they could see (on the street corners and the highways). The wedding feast was now full and the only condition was that each guest had to leave behind their own garment and put on the wedding garment that was a gift from the King. When the King came in, one man wasn't wearing the proper clothes for the wedding (doesn't say why). That guest was bound hand and foot and thrown out where there was weeping and gnashing of teeth. Jesus then summarizes saying "For many are called, but few and chosen." (see Matthew 22:1-14)

What's the point? I was/am like the guy invited to the wedding feast but refusing to wear the wedding garments because I don't feel adequate or worthy or comfortable or...

What's the risk? If I don't get over myself (note - self is the problem: when you focus on your SELF rather that what Christ has done) I will find myself weeping and gnashing having missed out on what I was called and clothed to be part of.

What's the solution? Repent - change my thinking. God chose me, called me and clothes me; so who I am to refuse? If God says this about me, who am I to question it? I must simply align myself with what He says (continually) and humbly say "Yes Lord, be it to me according to your word." I must fill the gap of inadequacy with worship and grattitude then boldly and confident walk in the clothes, calling and commission that He has given me.

And better yet, I got to confess to my friend who is walking through the same, and we can keep one another accountable to never shrink back or make excuses or minimize or defer or dishonor the glory of God on our lives again.

1. What about you?You will never step into the upgrades the Lord has for you if you don't embrace who He says you are.

It's not about you! It's about Him and His kindness and His goodness and His grace alone. So say 'Thankyou!"

Likewise, if you step into the upgrades and believe it is because of your efforts or ability or works (pride, religion...) you will find yourself being opposed by God Himself. He resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

So where are you holding back or hiding or making light of what the Lord is laying out for you?

Where has He called or commissioned or clothed you with favor and grace? Are you walking into that?

What will you do about it?

If you want to fully walk into a partnership with God in all of life and do this in community with a like-minded business community, join us online at HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

Finally, if you ever see me making light (joking) or deferring inappropriately or holding back from what the Lord is calling and commissioning me to walk in, I give you permission to call me out! Let's commit to one another to building one another up until we ALL reach the fullness of the stature of the measure of Christ that is what He died for!

If you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to contact me andy@heaveninbusiness.com

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What happens when God tells a 16 year old to give away his favorite clothes... or his car when he is 18... or his house deposit????!!!! Listen in as Aaron Christopherson of Pinnacle Wealth shares his story and unpacks radical generosity.

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Over the last few weeks I've been praying and planning and now I can say I'm super excited about what is unfolding this year. Actually it's a little overwhelming and has been challenging making decisions what to say yes to and what to say no to! So here's HOW I'm using a credo or decision-making tree to help me make decisions in alignment with my values and assignment. It's easy making decisions when it's been good and not good. It's hard making decisions when it's between two (or three or four... ) GOOD things. The process I'm working through will help you also.

If you want the notes and free worksheet on this, go to Heaveninbusiness.com/decision-guide 

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I was afraid that things might not work out... I chose to walk in faith regardless...and God has done exceedingly abundantly better than I could ask or imagine. So here's what's happening this year....

Find out more Heaveninbusiness.com/events

Washington DC Workshop - February 8-9

Birmingham AL Workshop - March 16-17

Atlanta GA Workshop - April 20-22

Harrisburg PA Strategic Retreat - May 17-19

Zimbabwe and South Africa - end of September/Start October

Stuttgart, Germany Workshop - third week October

Nashville TN, Redding, CA, Portland OR, Largo FL... watch this space

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Do you get worried about stuff? The cashflow. The future. The other people doing things that affect you. The relationship conflict. The cultural conflict. If I keep going down this line I'd have to include the local and national and global conflict over values... this list goes on. Full confession, I can get anxious and troubled really fast.

Then I read what Jesus said about worry, anxiety and fear...

The context was Jesus telling his closest companions that it was about to get bad, real bad...but that they should rejoice?! And that He was leaving but would return (?!) and that people would hate them and harm them because they followed Him... Awesome!

Let not your heart be troubled;

you believe in God, believe also in Me.

John 14:1

=> So if [or when] I fully believe [trust] in Jesus, the result is I wont let my heart get anxious, troubled, worried... Hmmmm.

And there's more...

Peace I leave with you;

My [own] peace I NOW give and bequeath to you.

Not as the world gives do I give to you.

DO NOT LET your hearts be troubled,

NEITHER LET THEM be afraid.

[Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed;

and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled.]

John 14:27 (AMPC - emphasis mine)

=> Oh, so I only worry when I don't trust God and in fact I have been ALLOWING or LETTING or CHOOSING worry. Oops.

So, how do I fix this? What's the plan?

That's where I read John 15, paraphrased it says this

1. Remain (abide, dwell, be constantly connected and present with) in Me

2. Let my Word remain (same definition above) in you

3. Don't let your hearts be troubled

4. about evil doers- about wicked schemes- about what you need- about others prospering - about trouble when it comes- about tomorrow…

For the Lord will be your confidence and Will Keep your foot from being caught. Proverbs 3:25, 26

And it all connects with other passages of scripture:

Psalm 91 - remain with God and He watches over you. MAKE the Lord your refuge...

Psalm 37 - rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him... Do not fret

Psalm 16 - SET the Lord always before you and you will never be shaken AND you get joy

Matt 6:34 REFUSE to worry about tomorrow..

Joshua 1 - Be strong and courageous; do not fear

2 Timothy 1:7 God hasn't given us fear but power, love and a SOUND mind (self-control of our thoughts - the ability to manage what we are thinking)

So the bigger question is...

How do I believe Jesus, remain in Him and let His Word remain in me? THIS is the key to never being (or allowing yourself to be) moved or shaken or anxious or troubled. Choose to remain in Him rather than choosing to remain in fear. This is not some wave-the-wand-and-instantly-you-are-better trick. This is the result of a LIFESTYLE of leaning into Jesus and His Word. It is allowing His WORD - His Voice to be louder than all the other voices. It is choosing to lean into the truth that He is always with me, never leaves me and with the Spirit of Jesus inside, there is nothing that can keep me down.

So let's get real practical...

HOW do I remain or abide or lean in to God - in His Presence - face-to-face with God.... (lot's of different terms through scripture effectively meaning the same thing). Jesus said it like this: "I only do what I see my father doing." He was walking conscious of the Spirit of God Almighty with Him. Always.

Here's some ideas to help you:

- Be intentional. Nothing of depth/substance is built without intentionality. You don't have to be crazy legalistic about it but you do need to choose what you will do. It's either DAY ONE or one day... Choose TODAY what you will do.

- Be accountable. Tell someone what you will do and give them permission to ask you about it. Anytime.

- Be consistent. Give us THIS DAY our DAILY bread. Set aside focused time daily. If I am serious about REMAINING in good physical condition I must (especially as I get older) consistently invest in activity that ensures this. Left to my own devices I am guaranteed to procrastinate, eat what and when I like and end up unhealthy (a nice term meaning I will continue to purchase larger sizes of clothing and be positioned for increasing health problems!) So I must be consistent. It is a choice. Daily.

Here's the basics... (it's not rocket science, if the untrained, uneducated disciples can get it then we can also!)

• Read your bible daily (try the bible in a year or a reading plan - REMAIN in the Word)

• Worship corporately at least weekly

• Journal what you are hearing and learning (capture it, take God/his Word seriously)

• Practice gratitude

• Train yourself to be conscious of the Presence of God - be still and KNOW God Ps 46

• Pray in the Spirit, often (and out loud when you can)

• Be obedient. Quickly

• Practice repentance. Search me God and know me. Test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me. And lead me in the path everlasting.

• Worship on your own, with your work, with your voice, with your attitude...

If you want to join us WEEKLY for a live call with stories of what God is doing all over the world this will HELP YOU REMAIN in Him and His word remaining in you. You will be inspired by the stories of every day people. You will be activated in sharing your own. You will be trained how to use the Word of God in strategic and tactical prayer. And you will be connected with a growing movement of people partnering with God at work and engaging in the wellbeing of the cities they serve. Find out more Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

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This short episode gives you an inside look at the Mason family over Christmas and why I tell you that... something I'm learning and will be focused on all year!

Merry Christmas! 

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How do you partner with God for strategy concerning the coming year? How do you know what to start doing, stop doing and keep doing? Is God even concerned about the little things like your budget and your marketing plan and your target customer?

Here's a behind-the-scenes look into what I do, why I do it and how I am partnering with Heaven in my business.

1. Set aside timeI prioritized a day. In truth this is not enough. But it was a good start and has given me the foundations and ingredients to refine over the break (allow it to 'percolate' internally) before taking another take early in the new year to consolidate then execute. There are no major changes - simply confirming and refining focus.

2. Find a place that helps you be still, reflect, remember and refocusA prayer house is excellent for this. Perhaps your local church or a church in your city where you could go and sit before the Lord. Perhaps it's a place out in nature that works for you to be still and quiet any distractions.

I went to the prayer house at Life Center Harrisburg. It's a two hour drive from home and I intentionally left my laptop at home. Getting away was totally worth the effort!

1. Remember the LordThis not a transactional meeting but a relationship you are continuing to build. So take time to be together. Worship. Express gratitude.

I took a couple hours in the morning to do this first. I've felt more recently with so many opportunities and things opening up I really need to focus on connection and keep myself from running (back) into solely accomplishment/transaction mode.

1. Remember the resultsReflect back over the last year and write down your metrics and results (key performance indicators - KPI's). Record the highlights - the testimonies that happened through the year that you want to see repeated. Consider personal and spiritual growth, financial growth, customer base, product or service development, systems and procedures, relational and emotional growth, marriage and family... How much did you give this year? What were the surprising areas of growth? What did you learn?

I wrote down our growth and demographics with social media and email correspondence. I listed the places we did workshops and conference and retreats. I listed all the mastermind groups and advisory relationships that I am working with. I then sat back and remembered and wrote down the testimonies from across those places plus what has happened in my life and family and our move. In doing this it is impossible not to overflow with gratitude and awe!

1. What do you see and hear for the coming year?Where is there favor or opportunities? What does looking back over the last year tell you about what could be coming next?

We have significant favor with retreat and workshop opportunities and how the conference is literally falling into place for Atlanta in April. There are a couple of locations that also have unusual amounts of connections/favor that I have identified and will lean into making a priority. One is NYC with Markus and Claudia Kirwald, and another is Lancaster and/or Harrisburg, PA with some other key connections. We will be spending a day a month in NYC and looking to do a workshop or retreat in PA in May.

As I pondered this before the Lord I have three key scriptures that are guiding us for the foreseeable future, which give clear objectives:

A) Isaiah 55:5 - Summon / call the crowd through a nurture sequence that invites them into a growth opportunity where they can access tools and resources to grow in identity and partnership with God at work. This encompasses our social strategy through to annual conference and membership community.

The community piece is something we continue to lean into to find ways to make this more effective in facilitating purposeful connection. We have a promise that the Lord will give us the strategy to do this so waiting on more clarity before we implement. Of note, the website host we use has purchased a leading community platform and this will become available internally in January... timing is perfect!

B) Titus 1:5 - Give clarity and confidence and connection to those we are working more closely with. Turn friends into partners through advising, mentoring, training, confronting, modeling and encouraging. This encompasses our workshops, retreats, mastermind groups and individual advisory.

C) 2 Timothy 2:22 - Identify those who have evidence of (Romans 16:19) excellence in their business, proven character, vibrant connection to Christ and ability to train others also. This is our strategy to multiply at the pace of relationship where we promote others as advisors, group facilitators and city-community leaders.

I also asked Michelle, who works with Heaven in Business, what testimonies were highlights from this year and her perspective of growth. I also asked what she was seeing open up (where is our favor) and what she is hearing the Lord say.

Next... run this all past Janine and more specifically map out the dates and locations we will be doing workshops and retreats and other activities for the year.

FINALLY, one area we have been secretly experimenting with is intentionally and strategically giving to leaders and organizations to ignite and accelerate hope and fruitful growth of Kingdom initiatives, otherwise limited due to resources. This has included Exodus Cry - Benji Nolot, Redding City Mission, iReachAfrica - Tracy Evans, Alliance Defending Freedom, a Ukraine kingdom business group and more. We have also sponsored key individuals to attend events where they would have otherwise been excluded due to finance. OPPORTUNITY - if you want to join with us in multiplying impact by resourcing individuals and organizations limited by economics contact me or give to our registered charitable organization called The Hope Directive. You can give via paypal on Paypal.me/HopeDirective

If you have questions or comments, don't hesitate to contact me andy@heaveninbusiness.com

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Last week Janine and I were in New Zealand. Our primary purpose was to revisit family for the first time in six years! We also got to do an executive retreat that was outstanding. One of the sessions, Janine and I unpacked the messy journey of together hearing God about moving to the east coast and how we navigated what God said compared to the delays and challenges we experienced along the way.

Here's some of the questions we unpack:

1. How did you hear God?

2. How did you translate what God said into practical decisions and timeframe?

3. How and who did you interact with in the process? Who are the stakeholders?

4. What if/when leaders and mentors disagree?

5. What do you do when what you expect doesn't happen in your timeframe?

6. What about when what you 'heard' doesn't work at all?

If you have any questions or comments don't hesitate to contact us andy@heaveninbusiness.com.

If you would like to grow with God in your work then join us weekly online - Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

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Kia Kaha, Kia Ngakaunui! That's the motto for the high school I used to attend. It's Maori for "Be Brave, Have Courage!" In other words, "Be strong and courageous!"

Only be strong and courageous! Be careful to follow all My commands - do not turn to the right or to the left. Meditate on My Words night and day and in so doing you will make your way prosperous and will have great success. Only be strong and very courageous! Joshua 1

( Read on to access a 90% off coupon to help train you in the one skillset that made the greatest difference to me )

This week I am in New Zealand visiting family and doing a two day executive retreat. I have gotten to spend time reconnecting with family and also drive past places we used to live and work.

I got to drive from Taupo to Hawkes Bay, passing farms that I used to visit as a business consultant. I got to drive past the sports grounds where I played rugby. I got to walk the streets where I used to live. I got to see the trails I used to run and the office I used to operate from as a relationship manager with an agricultural bank. I got to remember what my life was like and the challenges that I faced and the thinking that I operated in.

This morning I am in Havelock North staying with my wife's parents. I am now sitting on the couch and reading my bible and journaling what I am grateful for and marveling at how the Lord has led us and guided us and provided and challenged us to grow at every step.

I read in Psalm 61

I read in Joshua 1:2-9 paraphrased

"...the time has come for you to lead...

...wherever you set foot, you will be on land I have given you...

...I will be with you as I was with Moses, I will not fail you or abandon you.

...Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this book of instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.

The price for you to be all God has made you to be has already been paid. There are no exceptions or excuses. And it takes courage to believe that, step into it, keep walking and refuse to be defined by your situation, circumstances, genealogy, job (or lack thereof) and especially what people may have said about you.

1. Listen

2. Follow

3. Repeat

So here's the greatest key for me in making 'my' way prosperous. It is listening to the voice of God. Follow the voice of God. Don't turn to the left or the right. Stay on course. And as I have done that I now look back amazed at what we have gotten to do, where we have been able to serve and the legacy that is now all over the world.

So I want you to do the same! We turned our journey into a mini course that will equip you to hear the voice of God for decisions you need to make daily.

Use code: THANKFUL1 on HeyGodWhatNow.com to get $90 off until the end of December, 20222. You pay less that 10% normal price. Just $7 USD. Why? The greatest secret of my success is listening and following the voice of God. This is a very practical course on how to hear God on a daily basis, how to know it is His voice and how to apply what you are hearing to daily situations. We also cover what to do when what you hear doesn't happen like you think and how to do this with others. It's not easy. It takes courage. So

Kia Kaha! Kia Ngakaunui!

Be brave and have courage!

Only, be strong and very courageous!!!

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How do you recognize and avoid burnout? How do you manage stressful workload? How do you recognize the signs in those around you and do something about it?

This episode is brought to you by Nicola Murphy of Gnowbe.com.

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This unusual encounter in my hotel room in Hawaii was the real defining moment of Heaven in Business. It is now burned into who I am and what we live for. It has also made it really obvious what we are NOT. When you know that it is God With You that defines you, you are no longer defined by anything else:

Not your accomplishments or lack thereof,

Not what people say or don't say,

Not your history or trauma or sickness,

Not your vision or purpose,

Not your miracles or giving or net worth,

Not your family or legacy or where you came from,

And DEFINITELY NOT your church or political affiliation, or club membership!

The Presence of God WITH US is what defines us.

So what defines you as a follower of Jesus in the workplace? How would you know?

If you’ve never been certain that God wants to break into your world and rock your business…if you’ve built your business with one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake because you didn’t possess total conviction that business success is a holy pursuit… you need this book (Perry Marshall, writing about the book God With You at Work).

If this leaves you wanting more, check out HeaveninBusiness.com and join us in person or online to grow in your partnership with God at work.

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Did you hear about the guy at the coffee drive-thru who paid for the person behind him and it turned into a SIX HOUR spirit of generosity?!! Imagine what it would be like to be part of that? Or what if you were the one who ended it?

One of the key attributes of the Kingdom of God is generosity. This is in stark contrast to a political spirit or a religious spirit which are all about greed, position and power. The result of those are division, fear, manipulation and futility. The best way to diffuse it is to do the opposite - intentional generosity.

So that is what we are going to do. For the first 21 days of December we are doing a Generosity Campaign and I want you to add to the momentum by joining with us. We have made a list of 21 intentional acts of generosity, put those into a guide and will share tips and scriptures and inspiring stories to shift the narrative and build a culture where the Kingdom of God is demonstrated.

So are you in?

Simply jump onto Generosity-Campaign.com, sign up and we will send you the guide and the steps from here. Also follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Linkedin to get notifications and updates of the testimonies.

Finally, what are your favorite testimonies of generosity and what is the best resource on how to be generous?

Looking forward to hearing from you and shifting the story!

generosity #generositycampaign

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This is an update of episodes 166 and 167. I had been happily growing Heaven in Business as a viable business model and seeing some really great fruit - people accelerating in their partnership with God at work. This was evidenced by increased measure of peace regardless of circumstance, increased awareness of the wisdom of God directing different strategies and resulting miracles in dead businesses coming back to life, cashflow turnaround and divine favor for expansion.

Then God spoke - "Call the crowd"

I immediately jumped into action, ran ahead, got overwhelmed... then was lovingly realigned by God.

Next I learned I didn't have to go looking for the 'crowd' but the crowd was already at my front door! Our website analytics showed over 10,000 visitors to the home page in the last 30 days.

So here's what Ive been doing since, how I am hearing God through His Word and through a dream and how it is unfolding. The rest you can assess for yourself! Just know this... our version of 'success' and timing are not always the same as His. I am learning!!!

May this encourage you. And if you want to understand more of what is a Kingdom Business and how do you know if you are succeeding with that frame of reference, check out a free assessment and one page summary HERE - HeaveninBusiness.com/KingdomBusiness

What am I Learning? 1. Patience leads to beautiful things... learn to wait!

1. Obedience IS success

2. Excellence is worth the time

3. God is still speaking and I am still learning to hear

Resources Mentioned * Superfans: The Easy Way to Stand Out, Grow Your Tribe, and Build a Successful Business by Pat Flynn plus the associated online course * Irresistible Offer Plan Course and Free Pipeline Plan from Rebecca Austin

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This episode is the founders story of Heaven in Business. Andy Mason is interviewed by Ken Fish and Grant Pemberton of God is Not a Theory. They ask insightful questions to unpack the raw and real journey of partnering with God and launching a business that is now serving businesses and leaders all over the world. Here's some of the questions:

How & why did you go from New Zealand to USA?

What is Heaven in Business

How did Heaven in Business launch? 

What were the barriers and challenges you needed to overcome?

What was it like working with senior leaders at Bethel Church, Redding?

How did you need up in New Hope, Pennsylvania?

What is happening next?

Make sure you check out Ken Fish on OrbisMinistries.org and their podcast God Is Not a Theory

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Last episode I shared how I got a Divine business correction (I was believing lies...) and immediately jumped into a new strategy - "Don't ONLY focus on the few, ALSO call the crowd."

Well, here's the update and what I am learning:

Firstly, based on a word from God I seriously embraced the change and leaned right into ALL that I could do to IMMEDIATELY adjust. I'm sure you would never do this... I signed up for a course and diligently did the homework to redefine our target customer and their pain points and our irresistible offer and the nurture sequence and where to put lead magnets... And I listened to some podcasts and downloaded an audio book and researched what was actually going on with our 'crowd' market. I stayed up late reading and writing and listening.

I forced myself to study and learn and plan rather than just dive in and execute. That's a success moment!

Then all my work was interrupted by needing to drive to Virginia for an executive retreat. My head was bouncing around all the things I needed to implement and I wanted desperately to get the strategy and get.it.done!

Then my wife, Janine, patiently and kindly (and firmly) asked me to get my head in the right space to be present for the job at hand. (Yes, I did marry exceptionally well.)

Friday morning we got everything ready for an activity where people are setup to experience God in new ways and my job was simply to be present and help out if anything was needed. I sat in a chair, closed my eyes and imagined walking up onto a porch to meet with Father God. He was sitting on a chair gently rocking. I sat in a chair next to Him, pulled out my notebook and said something like, "OK Father God, what decisions do I need to make to get this moving?"

Father simply looked at me and said, "How about we put down the notebook and connect?" It wasn't harsh or patronizing. It was humbling and kind-of-obvious, like you would say, "Ohhhh yeah... that makes sense!"

For the next hour I just sat there, eyes closed, enjoying peace. My thoughts came back into alignment and it felt REALLY good. I didn't want the 'appointment' to end. 

Oh, and I didn't write down ANYTHING!

One thing was needed and I had 'chosen' (sort of) correctly.

Some time around then a lot of floating pieces of information fell into place. I had been focused on how to better reach the crowd (for example, we have 30,000 followers on facebook.... and there are ???? MILLION people that need this message across the world). I had done some due diligence on our website analytics and discovered that 10,000 people had visited the Heaveninbusiness.com home page in the last 30 days and almost 3,000 people had visited the blog! Wow, I don't need to find a crowd, the crowd is ALREADY here!!! What if I called the EXISTING crowd into engagement?

That afternoon I went for a run in the beautiful Virginia fall. I noticed how amazing the leaves looked and the temperature was PERFECT. The run was only four miles but took me an hour because I was listening to a new audiobook and had to keep stopping to take notes on my phone.

"Spend less time on lead magnets and more time on creating memorable experiences..."

OMG this was speaking to me right in the moment!

Course correction! Don't focus on the unknown crowd in the cloud... somewhere out there, focus on the crowd that have already come to you that you are ignorant of! Give them a memorable experience that will benefit their lives and move them toward discipleship whether they choose to engage further or not.

So what am I learning?

1. SLOW DOWN to speed up - pause, not just to get the right strategy... to get the right HEART. Ask, "Holy Spirit is there anywhere I need to slow down because I am running ahead? What do you have for me in this moment? How can we do this TOGETHER?"

2. Lead magnets are awesome - learn about them AND keep the priority the people, not the number or transaction. "Is this creating an experience that will genuinely add value to this person, whether they continue with me or not?"

3. Do your due diligence - know the state of your flock. What is already in your hand that you are not paying attention to? Do you know how many people are coming through your door, or to your website, or on your email list? Are you serving them? What is important to them? What is their greatest challenge in stepping into the help or service that you can give them? Ask them! 

4. God is crazy good at leading and guiding and knows my business better than me - He truly is the good shepherd. Pause and express gratitude... you will be amazed at the traction and momentum that results.

5. Super practical - I'm working on making the HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial much clearer and adding a free audiobook gift regardless of whether people engage or not. I have also already added an exit pop up that gives visitors a Kingdom Business one page summary and assessment and then follows up with a free video/audio session on the same topic and then an invitation to grow even more. Perhaps you can find it on the Heaveninbusiness.com home page as you go to exit! 

Finally, I am LEARNING how to do business WITH God better. It's a journey that I don't believe ever ends and I love it!

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Here's what happened when I became aware of some self-limiting or self-sabotaging beliefs about my business. Not only did the lies get flipped on their head; but I now have a very clear strategy going forward.

For you.... what are the lies that you have believed about you and business that have limited your growth? What is the truth? Now what will you do about it?

For me? I am doing a course with Rebecca Austin of Strive4Savvy.com that is refocusing me on who is my customer and what their pain is and the solution that we deliver. I am also working with a facebook Meta consultant (that happened to reach out at the perfect time... ) and listening to podcasts from Think Media on how to best grow our YouTube Channel.

If you have any specific questions about what we are doing and why we are doing that and even HOW we are doing it, please don't hesitate to send them to contact@heaveninbusiness.com.

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Here's a behind-the-scenes look into how I am learning - feeding myself - at the moment. What books am I reading? What podcast do I listen to? Also HOW do I do this when I am busy with family and business and other demands of life? How do you make time to learn?

Why I Prioritize Learning Firstly I believe that if I want to continue to grow in excellent business and leadership, I must continually feed and challenge myself. It's no longer "I don't have time for this..." it is "I can't afford NOT to do this!" It has become a priority. But there are some life hacks to do this without stopping other things in my life. I call it double-time and here's some of the ways I do it:

How I Create (or steal) Time to Learn It's amazing how taking a few minutes here and there through your day (and night) adds up over time to be SIGNIFICANT.

• Listen while at the gym or doing exercise (30-45min most days)
• Listen while driving to do chores or pickup kids (15min to supermarket, 60min school pickup)
• Listen If I wake up in the night (set the timer to 30mins and 'stop playing' afterward so you can fall back to sleep and the book doesn't continue playing)
• Listen as I go to sleep or if I wake up early and my wife is still asleep (I have airpods and my phone beside the bed so I can quietly reach over and grab it without waking her up)
• Read a few minutes before going to sleep (actually proven to help you sleep better!)

Programs I Use to Learn on the go * Audible membership (One book per month = $14.95 per month) - they have a promo right now where you can get four months for $4.95 per month. * YouVersion - bible app, multiple translations, audio in some translations. I now donate to them on a monthly basis like I would a business. * Apple Podcasts * YouTube for worship and 'how to' videos * Physical books to read before bed and for reference if an audiobook has greatly impacted me

What I am Listening to Right Now Audiobooks:

• The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom
• Hero on a Mission by Donald Miller
• Shifting Atmospheres by Dawna de Silva
• Wild at Heart by John Eldredge
• The Passion Translation bible

Podcasts: 

• Think Media
• God is Not a Theory with Ken Fish
• Ford Taylor Talks

Books

• The book of Ephesians in the Bible (Physical or YouVersion on my phone)
• Atmospheres 101 workbook by Dawna de Silva
• The 3D Gospel: Ministry in Guilt, Shame & Fear Culture

YouTube

• Bethel Worship
• Elevation Worship
• Upper Room Worship
• Revere Worship
• Think Media Videos

So, what are you listening to right now and what are you learning?

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Are you feeling isolated or alone? Perhaps in the middle of a busy life, and bustling crowds and multiple friends... but something feels out-of-sorts on the inside? Here's my story and learning.

I am a people-person My natural gift is quickly making connections (see WOO on Gallup Strengthsfinder). I have regular, weekly calls with people I love and care about and who have a shared vision.

We recently relocated 3,000 miles from California to Pennsylvania into an area where we know no one. I am SURROUNDED by connections all across the country and friends within 2hrs drive BUT have yet to find local, in-person community.

Feeling out-of-sorts and not knowing why Last week I was wondering why I felt irritated, unsettled and out-of sorts. Here's a few of the context:

• My kids who have grown to be friends, have left for college (thankfully we have one adult child with us!)

• My wife, Janine, had COVID so was keeping her distance

• My daughter couldn't come home for the weekend, as planned, because of COIVD in my house.

• I have reached out to connect with a local law enforcement community to build a similar relationship I had in California... only the local establishment had no grid for positive connections with good citizens without an agenda.

• We have visited four different local churches and have yet to find one where we all sense we belong.

"Oh.... I'm feeling lonely!" In talking with my wife about what was going on I had a lightbulb moment (often happens in conversation with her)... I am feeling lonely!

I have more-than-I-can-manage connections via phone and zoom and facetime and email. But I MISS THE FACE-TO-FACE connections and unspoken sense of security from being part of a city-community. I miss the significance of being engaged with something in-person, that bigger than me.

The first step to change is acknowledgement It was a bit of a shock to realize I was feeling lonely. And at the same time, freeing. Oh, that's whats going on. I am having a feeling!!!

So I sit with the Lord and begin to process it. Actually that started to unpack (unravel?) over the next few days.

Denial (or believing lies) results in unhealthy behavior I became aware of lies that I was starting to believe that were REINFORCING loneliness.

Maybe I don't fit.

Maybe I just don't belong...

I am not wanted.

I am unloved.

I am an outcast...

I am rejected.

This progression of thought is ENTIRELY what the devil wants to do with you. To lead you down a progression of thoughts that first self-protect, then isolate, then lead to depression and ultimately death.

I was being passive They also result in passive (or perhaps victim-like) behavior - waiting from someone else to reach out or introduce themselves or include you.

STOP IT. Change your thinking - Divorce rejection Thanks to my wife and the Holy Spirit prompting I found the problem and now had a choice to own it and change it. That looks like this...

"Jesus, thank you for loving me.

Thank you for paying the price for me to be one with you.

I have been feeling lonely.

I have started to believe the lies that I don't fit or don't belong...

Please forgive me for partnering with lies and listening to the spirit of rejection.

I receive the acceptance and adoption and security and identity that you freely gave me.

Thank you that I am accepted and I belong and I am a member of your family.

I divorce rejection!

Jesus, what do you want me to know instead?"

Take a moment to pause and listen for what the Holy Spirit says... I immediately heard him say of me "I am in the right place at the right time with the right message and the right people," and that "I am dearly loved by all who know me."

I wrote that down and use that as a weapon every time I recognize a lie trying to creep in.

Take the initiative Dealing with the lies and reconnecting with who Jesus says you are is the first step.

Now there's some PRACTICAL things that you need to do to walk into freedom and life and healthy in-person community.

Ask yourself - what could I do to take initiative and reach out?

Here's what I did and am doing:

• Have dinner with some new connections

• Introduce yourself at local church... don't wait for someone else to come up to you

• Take initiative in your local community connections

=> I have joined the local Chamber of Commerce and emailed the contact regarding one of their leadership programs that introduces participants to the key people and influences of the community

=> I am going to a local Economic Development Corporation meetup that happens to be this week

• Ask Holy Spirit what else...

• I am taking more time in my office to pray in the Spirit and worship with Youtube Bethel

Seek further resources If you recognize you need more help to get free from thinking and behaviors that have made you passive and/or powerless check out some other helpful resources:

• Read Shifting Atmospheres (and accompanying workbook) by Dawna de Silva

• Read/watch Spirit Wars by Kris Valllotton

• Find a counsellor or get a session with Bethel Sozo (link here)

• See Orbis Ministries for Resources on inner healing and deliverance

• Join Heaven in Business online community - Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial and meetup at our weekly live call for encouragement, inspiration and activation

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We know that poverty is stupid and that selfish prosperity is not prosperity at all. So how do you know how much is too much? How do you keep a healthy focus on business growth and profitability without the pursuit of money consuming you or being your primary motivation (or marketing message!)?

Listen to this conversation with trusted friend and influencer, Shae Bynes of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur. Shae is the founder of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur, author of multiple books including Doing Business God's Way and her devotionals on YouVersion have had more than 500,000 people!

If you find this content valuable and want more, join us at Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial or email your questions to contact@heaveninbusiness.com

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Twenty four years ago I married my best friend... and she is still my best friend! We (mostly me) have had some bumps and adjustments along the way as we have navigated moving across continents, having no income for three years, avoiding wildfires and working through family health challenges. The last three days we have spent together in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, celebrating our 24th anniversary together and I've been reflecting on what has made our marriage a success - I found and kept the spouse of my dreams. Here's an insiders list of how you can do the same:

1. Get in the Right Position I was 25 years old when I met Janine. I certainly wanted that to (make it?) happen sooner but a key principle guided me:

Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness

and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33

Key action - seek God first. Make Him (...not a church or a career or a companion) the center of your life and you will find that He will ADD what is best and most important to you.

I was open to relationships as I went to college and considered a couple different people to pursue. In each case, I asked the Lord for His guidance and both times He let me know that wasn't the person I was going to spend my life with. That wasn't easy at the time (especially when I compared my single life with the lives of others around me). But I made a decision to trust Him fully with my life and seek Him first - above all else. History says He was right!

When I left college and prayed about which location to start my first job as an agricultural business consultant, I sensed the Lord leading to a particular location. When I arrived I also joined a young adults group in the local church. There I met Janine, who grew to become my best friend. Nine months later, through a fun story, God showed me this is who He was sending my way (and me toward her!).

1. Get in the Right Condition A key part of the verse above says to seek God's righteousness = His way of living. This is simply impossible in our own ability which is why He gives us the Holy Spirit to teach and lead

2. Be a Life-Long Learner When you are an expert there is no room for mistakes. When you are a novice, you are EXPECTED to make mistakes. So stay a novice. Give yourself grace and give your spouse grace and keep learning!

3. Keep Short Accounts Don't go to bed angry or disconnected. Resolve it, if you can. Otherwise AGREE to resolve it in the morning.

4. Leverage Professionals I have found pastoral counselors are helpful. I have also found that professionally trained counselors are MORE helpful. In business you would be foolish not to engage the best professional advisors (accountants, lawyers... ) that you can afford. Your marriage is MORE valuable than your business so it should be even more important to engage professionals.

5. Have Fun Together Regardless of your budget there is always something you can do to laugh together or create shared experiences. Prioritize it. Explore what is fun.... games, walking, visiting...

Your turn: What is one piece of advice you have learned, to find and keep the spouse of your dreams?

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Lately we have been having conversations with individuals and groups and repeatedly the focus has been on strengthening identity. When you don't know who you are, you will live someone else's life or expectation of you. You will feel frustrated or like you are never hitting the mark - never enough. Alternatively we make up a false identity or narrative to hide behind. This results in the same cycle of excessive performance or even futility and depression.

However, when you discover who you were born to be - your true design, and begin to move authentically towards that, you will find more and more fruitfulness and fulfilment (although not without challenge and adversity as others try to pull you into their version of you).

So how do you discover who you were designed to be?

And how do you stay true to that in the midst of pressure to conform to so much less.

Here's some practical steps developed through my life and walk with God.

To be clear - you will never find complete fulfillment without a growing connection with Jesus Christ who is the author and perfector of life. Secondly, you will never find complete fulfillment this side of Jesus returning with the fullness of His Kingdom. That's why there is always a desire for more. Get used to it and keep walking! The challenge and connection with Christ on the journey is the key to success - becoming friends of God.

Now to who are you and how to stay true to that.

For the purposes of this article I will focus on two sources - the Word of God = who scripture says you are, and prophecy = the Holy Spirit inspired, spoken revelation of who you are (spoken by trusted and mature people who are operating in the gift of prophecy eg. Dan McCollams ministry)

1. Who does Scripture say you are? What is written in the scriptures of you?

Then I said, "Look I have come, as is written about me in the scriptures." Psalm 40:7 NLT (emphasis mine)

This is David writing of himself and also referred to as Messianic prophecy, pointing to Christ.

Another great example is Cyrus, King of Persia who read about himself in Isaiah 45, mentioned by name (150 years before he was born)! He then proceeded to do what was written of him (for more, search Cyrus and biblical prophecy).

Then we have John the Baptist in John 1:19-27. He was approached by the religious leaders asking, "Who are you?" John responds, "I am not the Messiah... I am not the prophet (Elijah)." When they keep pressing him, he finally replies:

"John replied in the words of the prophet Isaiah: “I am a voice shouting in the wilderness, ‘Clear the way for the LORD’s coming!’

In other words.... AS IT IS WRITTEN ABOUT ME IN THE SCRIPTURES.

So... what do the scriptures say of you? How do you find out.

1. Read the scriptures while asking the Holy Spirit to guide you

2. What is your 'life' verse that defines who you are and/or what you will do?

For me, we had a season of prayer and fasting at Church in New Zealand, asking the Lord to reveal purpose. At the end of that time I was directed (inspired thought) to read Titus 1:5 (NKJV) which reads,

"For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you..."

I was actually disappointed because this summarized what I was ALREADY doing as a business consultant, as a church leader, as a bank manager, as a community development practitioner in Uganda...

I find what is missing and set it in order. Then I find and encourage (anoint/appoint) people to lead wherever they are placed by God.

I AM A SKILLED BUILDER OF THE LIVES OF PEOPLE (that's actually my name - Andrew Jonathan Mason)

I AM SENT TO SET IN ORDER WHAT IS LACKING AND APPOINT LEADERS (EKLESIA) IN EVERY CITY.

1. What does prophecy say of who you are I have been fortunate to be in communities that value hearing and sharing the voice of God. The beauty of this kind of community is you get to hear things repeated and are able to process what you are hearing with mature and wise people who can help you get clarity. I have written down what has been said and repeatedly go back over those words for direction, confirmation, courage and comfort.

On hearing Dan McCollam talk on the subject of his book - The Good Fight, I took the prophetic word(s) and turned them into a declaration of who I am.

One in particular was from Kris Vallotton as I was being commissioned as a minister. When I first turned it into a declaration, I felt awkward and embarrassed - "who do I think I am???" Then I was convicted, that this is not what I say I am... this is what GOD SAYS I AM.

I AM A PASTOR OF POWERFUL PEOPLE. I LOVE THEM FEARLESSLY AND THEY ARE ATTRACTED TO ME. I AM A BRIDGE OF CONNECTION ACROSS RACIAL, POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC DIVIDES.

As I have listened less to what people say and more to what God says... agreeing with that by declaring this over my life, I have seen a RAPID ACCELERATION of actually seeing this fulfilled.

So, I encourage you to do the same!

If this has been helpful and you want to continue to grow in identity, grow in business and grow in influence with a like-minded community, join us HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial.

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This episode is an interview that I did with Ellis Hammond of Kingdom Real Estate Investors Group (Check out their podcast here). Some of the questions we covered included

• Why is dreaming with God so important and how do you do that with your work?

• How do you build a connection with the Holy Spirit to get wisdom in your daily work?

• How do you lead a local group of business people to grow community and their engagement with God at work?

• How do you know the Holy Spirit is speaking and not just your own thoughts? (See Hey God What Now? for more)

• What resources do you suggest for business people wanting to grow their partnership with God at work?

If you valued this episode and want to find out more about Heaven in Business, go to HeaveninBusiness.com where you can join us weekly online or in-person at an upcoming event.

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The last few episodes we have talked about how I'm reading the bible right now and protecting your priorities. This session I'm taking what I have personally heard/hearing and walking you through what that is, how I heard and how I am applying that to our business in a new location. The result is a more refined and clearer business strategy, making it easier to cut through the noise and pressure of society and culture. It also makes me go, "Ahhhhhh..." releasing a big breath - relaxing into the 'zone' that is for us right now.

As you read and/or listen, you may want to jump back to the previous episodes (#156 and #158) to get the background. Then do this for yourself. Who is your customer? How do you serve them? What is your business model? How to turn that into day to day priorities and planning so that you don't get distracted with all the other noise and pressures?

Firstly, one of my heroes is William Tennent, founder of the first Presbyterian Theological Seminary in North America in 1727 (until his death in 1746). What he started was labelled "the Log College" by other institutions - a derogatory name for this humble, 400 sq foot school house. In spite of ridicule, opposition and humble surroundings, he stayed focus on his calling... and died before seeing the full fruit. The Log College is now agreed as being the precursor to Princeton University (sadly, now long deviated from its foundation). What's the point? William Tennent stayed in his lane, focused on who he was called to serve and "built better than he knew." May it be the same and more for you.

So, what's my process? As mentioned in How I'm Reading the Bible Right Now (#156), I have been reading over and over, the book of Titus. As I have continued to read this, a bigger and clearer picture has stood out to me. This is causing me to refine my focus for the STRATEGY of of my business. I have long had Titus 1:5 as a life verse. Reading the WHOLE book (letter) has give me much clearer context and reinforced the process.

Vision (unchanged) - Connect and catalyze one million business people partnering with God at work and engaged in the wellbeing of the cities they serve.

Purpose (enhanced 'why?') - Because work is a primary place we forge our friendship with God - Because I want to experience more of Heaven on earth in and through the workplace - Because I am sent to further the faith of God's chosen Ones and lead them to the full knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness (Titus 1:1)

Mission (reinforced - unique approach/focus) - We focus on the few who influence the many - we intentionally aim to serve business leaders who are called to influence their city or region = the ekklesia (see Ed Silvoso book of the same name)

How has reading Titus changed my business strategy? 1. Removed doubt - check out the first few verses of Titus. Paul repeats himself. "Paul, appointed by God.... at the command of God... as the Lord commanded me..."

1. Refined focus - look how clear the statements are in the first chapter. SENT to a specific location for a specific purpose. This is your customer. This is your region. This is what you are to do with them. Period. THIS IS AWESOME!!!! I love the clarity that the Word is giving to my business focus.

2. Raised conviction - I am SENT, STATIONED in a particular location with a particular customer and a particular purpose. Repeatedly the letter to Titus lays out... "...as i have commanded you." It's not a suggestion!

3. Reinforced key actions - throughout the book there are TONS of action words - teach, guide, lead, show, model.... This has reinforced the ACTION of what I will do as I serve my customers.

So what IS the business strategy? Listen to hear the application...

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How do you know what to focus on when you have SO MUCH going on? In this episode I walk you through a simple process to clarify and protect your priorities. If you don't know and protect your priorities you will live someone else's. One great YES must be protected by a thousand NO's.

Download the notes and activity here:

• NOTES DOWNLOAD

• BIG ROCKS & IDEAL CALENDAR EXERCISE

For more, see HeaveninBusiness.com 

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Benji Nolot is a modern day abolitionist. Just like William Wilberforce, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth, who fought to see the end of human slavery, Benji leads an organization (Exodus Cry) that is fighting slavery (trafficking and exploitation of humans) today.

Listen to hear the impact of their efforts to remove the false narrative and expose the illegal activities of Mindgeek (Pornhub) which hosted more than 80% of online porn globally. Subsequently Visa, Mastercard and Discover have withdrawn their facilitation of transactions supporting the site. 

Even more, listen to what it takes YOU to be a reformer.

I also highly encourage you to get involved with Exodus Cry by donating generously on their website - ExodusCry.com

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Ever wondered how an ancient text (the book of Genesis was first written around 3400 years ago) can give you wisdom and keys to the way of life on a daily basis? Better yet, the words are living and active and as you read them, they are READING YOU! So how do you engage with the scriptures on a daily basis to grow in wisdom and the best way to live life?

Here's some practical tips that I am doing right now.

1. My baseline, go-to reading, is the book of Proverbs This is the book of wisdom so reading a chapter each day keeps you from sabotaging your life success... IF you do what it says. To ignore the counsel of wisdom is to invite trouble into your life (Prov 9:12 TPT).

The simple way is to read the chapter that coincides with the day of the month. Today is August 9 so I'm reading Proverbs chapter 9.

As I read I am asking Holy Spirit, what wisdom He has for me today. Verse 6 pops out:

"Lay aside your simple thoughts and leave your paths behind.

Agree with my ways, live in my truth, and you will find righteousness."

I then highlight it and re-read it across different versions. I love the YouVersion bible app for this as it is so quick and easy. Actually, I've just started giving to them on a monthly basis because it's such a great resource and I use it virtually every day.

Reading across different versions helps with context - so that you don't read into the scripture something it was never intended to say. Different versions also help broaden your understanding of the passage as they use different words that can trigger slightly different perspective and understanding.

I find that when I pause from my activity and lean into 'hearing' more that God speaks more. That's a principle - Pay attention, therefore, to how you listen. Whoever has will be given more, but whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him (Luke 8:18).

So what am I hearing Wisdom speak to me today from Proverbs 8:6 I mentioned above?

The simple framework S.O.A.P helps me (developed by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro)

What Scripture is highlighted?

What is your Observation about what it says?

What is the Application to you, today?

Now take a moment and Pray about it.

My observation is that this is invitation to let go thinking and the patterns of behavior that lead to undermining confidence, sowing doubt and sabotaging or delaying success in the Way of life (righteousness).

My application for today is a re-emphasis and re-engagement in what I talking to you about! I MUST come daily and prioritize time to read and listen to the ways of Wisdom. I need to refix my thinking and behaviour on what Wisdom says about me and not what circumstance or opposition says. SO I AM EXTENDING MY TIME DAILY to do just this. It is how I start my day.

This is significant because the last two months have been all over the map with transition and changing environments. Now that we are in our own home I need to re-establish daily patters, disciplines and rituals that set me up for success. This is the first one!

Now I pray:

Lord, I let go the distractions and mess all around me and recenter my life and focus on You and Your ways of Wisdom. Let Your Word read and align me. Search me and know me. Test me and know my anxious thoughts. Test me and see if there is any offensive way in me. And lead me in the way everlasting. Thank you for speaking to me this morning!

1. My current (re)focus is the scripture that define my life purpose As we get setup again in a new home, in a new location, with a new schedule (and timezone) I felt prompted to go back to the scripture mandate that defines my purpose and calling.

Titus 1:5 is a life verse that first opened up to me around 2005 after a 21 day fast. It is the Apostle Paul speaking to his disciple, Titus, saying "For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should SET IN ORDER THE THINGS THAT ARE LACKING, AND APPOINT ELDERS IN EVERY CITY..."

This is what eventually became the tagline of my coaching/consulting business as I was running one day pondering how to say what I do:

"I give individuals and organizations clarity for what's next and the courage to do it."

So how am I uniquely reading the bible right now?

A) I am going back over key scriptures that define who I am and what the Lord has commanded me to do

Note, this is what THE LORD says about me; not a missionary, not a pastor, not a leader. According to the command of the Lord (see Titus 1:3 TPT)

What are they key passage(s) of scripture that define you? If you don't have one, ask the Lord to reveal to you a scripture or passage. Don't wait, do it right now.

B) I am going deeper and broader in the scripture

I jumped into the passion translation and copied the entire book of Titus, then pasted it into a word document.

I then deleted all the titles and verse numbers so that it reads like it would have originally... as a letter... to me!

I then saved it as a pdf file and uploaded this into a document reader (I use ReMarkable) that I can then write over, highlight and add notes. You could simply do this by printing out a hard copy and writing over it.

I have uploaded a copy of my document HERE (click to open/download). If this doesn't work, email me and I will send you a copy.

C) I am highlighting actions, commands and behaviors to implement

As I repeatedly read through this letter (to me!) I look for phrases or words that are repeated.

I also read the entire passage in other translations for the same reasons I mentioned earlier in this post.

I then underline, highlight or annotate things that stand out. For me that is the purpose for which the letter was written and the mandate given to Titus - what he was being commanded to do. I then look for HOW he is to do that.

All of this I note and then summarize in my journal/notebook.

I am committed to reading this daily over at least a week, pondering it through and allowing it to percolate in my spirit (called meditation).

After a week or so, I will take time to summarize and then use that to refine and refresh the vision, purpose, mission, objectives, strategies and actions for my business... Heaven in Business!

PS. If you read through Titus you will find the very purpose for which I wrote this today for you!

So, what will you be reading today and tomorrow?

Send your questions and comments to contact@heaveninbusiness.com and join us in-person or online HeaveninBusiness.com

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We have a house! That's the great news. The journey has been... a challenging journey!!! I'm six weeks behind my schedule and what I thought was a simple loan application got intricately complicated. It was delayed by the underwriters continued questions to such an extent that we weren't sure we would close on time. In fact, the final approval happened at 6:30pm the night before closing!

Then we discovered the moving company was.... (hmmmm, how do I say this nicely?)... uncommunicative. In spite of giving almost a months notice of the date we move in, they wouldn't answer my call, didn't follow through on what they said and blanketed it by saying "the contract gives us 30 days after the first available move in date."

So what does faith look like in this situation? Do I bang down doors or pray and wait for God to move and my phone to ring? Do I call a lawyer regarding the moving company to add some heat?

Here's what I did and what I'm learning.

First, the perplexing lesson is that God is delighted in the process. When I pause and ponder Him or simply ask, "Are we doing ok?", all I see/hear is Him smiling at me and my family. That either means He is sadistically loving watching us walk through emotional, physical and financial challenge... OR He knows this is working for good and loves how we are responding to Him and one another in the process. I am convinced of the latter. He is only good, His face and favor are toward me, not against me. He is with me. He is working, and has worked, this all for my good because I am walking in His ways, leaning in for His voice and adjusting along the way to represent Him the best I know how.

So if He is with me, leading and guiding, why is this so challenging? Why am I having to seemingly fight for every step when He already paid the price?

Here's a couple scriptures that give light

1. God is not afraid of your humanity. He joined you IN it

Moreover He said, “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.”

Exodus 3:6

By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, bowing in worship over the head of his staff.

Hebrews 11:21

ACTION - celebrate, be grateful, be thankful, worship in ALL CIRCUMSTANCES and IMPERFECTIONS (yes, yours!)

1. EVERY word from God will face challenge to PROVE it true and genuine

Every word of God is tried and purified; He is a shield to those who trust and take refuge in Him.

Proverbs 30:5 (AMPC)

...that the genuineness of your faith, [being] much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love.

1 Peter 1:7

ACTION - Be encouraged in midst of challenge, persevere, you will get through this and come out the other end stronger, more confident and more pleasing to God

1. Learn when to wait and when to act

Since you have never traveled this way before, they will guide you. Stay about a half mile behind them, keeping a clear distance between you and the Ark. Make sure you don’t come any closer.

Joshua 3:4 (NLT)

The priests will carry the Ark of the LORD, the Lord of all the earth. As soon as their feet touch the water, the flow of water will be cut off upstream, and the river will stand up like a wall.

Joshua 3:13 (NLT) and 4:18

Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts.

Isaiah 26:8 (NIV)

ACTION - keep your heart tender toward the Lord, trust His guidance, keep walking and let your action be done from and in a way that would still represent Him. eg. Polite persistence

If this is helpful for you, please post your comments or email contact@heaveninbusiness.com

If you would like to join a community growing together through the messy intersection of in faith, family and business, meet us at Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

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I'm on my way home from a Heaven in Business Adventure Retreat in Seward Alaska. Fourteen businessmen flew or drove in from all across the USA to spend a week fishing, hiking and growing as leaders. This episode is a summary of what happened and the answer to the most significant question that they had. 

If you want more of what we talked about you can grab a copy of Ford Taylor's book, Relactional Leadership on FordTaylorTalks.com or TLOnDemand.com for the online training course.

If you have any questions or comments please don't hesitate to email contact@heaveninbusiness.com and don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and share with your friends.

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Welcome to the boat as I head out fishing from Seward Alaska and interview Philip Licht of Set Free Alaska. We talk about Luke 1:37 and how to walk BOTH stewarding excellence AND believing God for the miraculous. 

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I thought I did...

We are STILL in the middle of our house journey. Two weeks ago I posted the story of how God came through last minute with a home that is beautiful and released new hope! We were on track thinking we are perfectly positioned to close end of July then I got a call from my mortgage manager...

"Ummm.... the underwriters don't like your situation..."

Whaaat!!!! This is less borrowing than I had before and my income is forecast to be higher than before and the security from a banks perspective is brilliant!!!!

"I know. But now that this house search process has taken so long, you have a new entity in a new state and you are no longer on salary and we don't have two years of you running the new entity, so your situation doesn't fit in the normal parameters."

Key words - "you don't fit normal"

It would appear that nothing I do is 'normal!'

Initial response - calmly (at least outwardly) freak out wondering and hoping God has another phone call coming in within five minutes.

After five minutes I text/talked to a couple friends for their advice.

Next response - remember that I was reading Psalm 40 on this day and it TALKED about God rescuing me out of a pit and putting me on solid ground.

I read it again...."I waited and waited AND WAITED SOME MORE, patiently (????), knowing (you sure about that?) God would come through for me. Then, AT LAST, He bent down and listened to my cry. He stooped down to lift me out of danger from the desolate pit I was in, out of the muddy mess I had fallen into. NOW He's lifted me up into a firm, secure place and steadied me while I walk along His ascending path." (Psalm 40:1-2 TPT emphasis and comments are mine).

OK, so God's got this. He is completely relaxed. He is not in a hurry. BUT I NEED THE MONEY!

"Will you trust me?"

Ye.....s? (Can you answer the affirmative and still have a question?)

"Do you trust me?"

Yes. But can I have some more information... a plan.... a strategy.... an end picture of how and when this is going to work out good?

...silence...

I remember, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding... He will direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5,6)

Are you SURE I can trust you without understanding???? Is that even responsible????!!!

And this really doesn't feel easy... or fun.

Well, I guess there's nothing else I can do.

OK, I trust You. Help me to trust you! Help me to walk this out in such a way that everyone who hears will stand in awe of God and fall in love with Him! (Psalm 40:3).

So what does trust look like? 

1. Listen and obey - I prayed and sensed I heard a couple names of trusted people to call so I did. That's always a vulnerable step that I have LEARNED is also a fastrack to deeper relationships. However, none of them had an alternative solution (we did talk to an alternative provider and the answer was exactly the same). All confirmed to continue the direction we were headed.

2. Continue walking - do the things I need to do. Sign the forms. Provide the information... quickly. Don't procrastinate.

There is a solution our mortgage manager is pursing that should easily be approved; just at a higher cost. When I look at God's face He is not worried or concerned or upset; actually He is almost delighting in watching me navigate the process. So I keep walking even though paying more money (unnecessarily in my opinion) stinks.

1. Process honestly - I love how the Psalms doesn't sterilize the process! Be candid with what you are feeling. I'm disappointed. I'm scared. I'm angry. But I will trust You. Don't let my frustration spill over to undermine the Knowledge of You to my family or community.

So, God is asking YOU... "WILL YOU TRUST ME? Will you let go control of what you think you know and walk with Me?"

What is your response?

"But may all who search for You be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "The LORD is great!" As for me, since I am poor and needy, let the Lord keep me in His thoughts. You are my Helper and my Savior. O my God, do not delay." Psalm 30: 16-17 NLT

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The last few weeks have been a roller coaster! A friend texted me Exodus 33:11 - how Moses met and talked with God face to face like a man talks to his friend. Then Moses went back to work, but Joshua, Moses' servant would linger further in the Presence of God. Interesting how the SERVANT stayed longer in the Presence of God.

"I have so much to do today, I'm going to take a couple more minutes being still before God Almighty. God, I could sure use some extra help today...."

"I have so much to do today, I'm going to take a few more precious minutes to simply tell you how much I appreciate YOU. You, Christ the Messiah, are my hope and my salvation. You are my strength and my source of all good things. Thank you that my value and significance and security are already established by the price that You paid for me. Thank you that I GET to work today...."

This episode is a recording from a Heaven in Business conference on the Performance of Rest. You will hear my story of bumping up against lack of performance that exposed cracks in my identity. You can read more by grabbing a copy of God With You at Work on Amazon.com.

Enjoy! And don't hesitate to send me your questions or comments or simply join us online at Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial.

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After a six-month process and some last minute twists and turns, we just found a new home in Pennsylvania. We had to navigate our expectation of timing, property size and property location. We also had to navigate all that we heard from God translated into what that looks like in a transaction. What is faith in this situation? When do we just wait? How long do you wait? Here's the ups and downs of the story and what we learned in the process.

Firstly - here's what happened this week...

We pulled out of a deal at the last second After months of looking and resetting the family (see episode 148 You Reek of Stress and 149 The Insiders Perspective) we were left with one property that met the needs of the family and fit our budget. The alternatives - air bnb or renting for 9-12 months, were either too expensive or non existent (or a flat out 'no way' from the family).

The property fit the expectations of rural location and peaceful setting and perfect for our older daughter's desire for independent living. We could make the bedrooms work for us with a minor renovation. But my wife hated it. When nothing else was available (rental property was U G L Y or unavailable), we prayed about it, and all agreed to move forward with it adjusting our expectation. As an alternative to renting it was a good deal.

So we put in an offer and prayed that the Lord would lead us in the process or rescue us if needed!

The sellers came back with a very minor counter offer. But overnight, Janine hadn't been able to sleep. She got up, praying saying "Seriously Lord, is this the best you have for us?" The response that immediately came to her was "If that's what you have faith for."

So, based on her conviction and after humbling ourselves with the agent and our family, we withdrew our offer.

As we said to the kids, it's better to walk away at the altar than realize two weeks later that you made a mistake (ie. too late).

We re-examined our expectations We then reset with the family of what was non negotiable and what it was we love. This looked like writing up a large sheet of card, taped to the wall, a list of the things in a property that were a priority. The second sheet had what we would love but were not critical for the season.

We cast our cares on the Lord and recruited His Agency We then prayed and cast our cares on the Lord and asked for his care in the way of Jesus being our Real Estate Agent and finding us the house. We had done this all through the process but this was another level casting on Him our frustration, anger, irrigation, impatience, fear, dreams and desires, hopes and needs...

We relooked at the market We then had a quick look with the new parameters online and found three houses, NONE of which we had looked at before. Actually two of these were brand new to the market - 2 days and a few hours, respectively.

We then jumped in the van and drove the hour and half to inspect the property's.

The first one was ok. We could live there.

The second one looked really good but we couldn't line up the agent to look through and there was a degree of road noise.

The third one was in a beautiful neighborhood (note: we had not been looking in neighborhoods - we had been looking for houses with more than an acre of land). When we walked inside, INSTANTLY the kids lit up and took off around the house to look around.

(As an aside, our own agent was away on vacation so a random agent from the listing company was letting us in for no personal gain. She just wanted to help after I called their office. She then put in a positive word for our family when we subsequently put an offer in.)

The feeling that we all had was the same as when we purchased our previous homes in Redding, CA. Unanimous "Yes!"

We put in an offer Actually we put in two offers. First offer was slightly above asking price, following professional advice given that it was only 2 days on the market.

Then we heard there was another offer going in so we needed to put our BEST offer forward and they would be presented side by side.

No pressure! Is this our house or not?

I had to trust God again that He truly does lead.

We talked as a family what would be a price we would be happy to pay and at what point would we resent paying too much. We then took 30 seconds to be still and ask the Lord for His insight on price.

Without hesitation EVERY ONE of my family had the same price and it was $2,500 LESS than what we had talked about moments before.

So we put in the offer, agreeing to the desired short settlement that suited us.

And our offer was accepted We are now in process of finding furniture, doing inspections, getting the loan and moving to another (TWO) air bnb until move-in date (July 28/29).

So what did we learn? 1. Following the process, walking WITH God = continuing to listen and take action and trust the outcome. The Good Shepherd kept us from messing up. 2. The process of delay was painful but was necessary to adjust our expectations to see differently. If we hadn't gone through the process we would never have reset what was non negotiable. AND the house wasn't yet on the market. 3. The importance of listening to your spouse! What would have happened if I didn't listen to Janine's hesitation? Or, if I hadn't been gracious in the process? 4. The Good Shepherd has indeed led us to good pasture and the house we have found is above and beyond what we could ask or imagine. Not only does it meet all the non negotiable needs for us to thrive, it also ticked off 90% of the list of what we also love. 5. The Good Shepherd's timing is perfect. Don't try to understand, that MAY come later. TRUST His nature and character and leadership and keep walking with a listening ear and a ready step.

Oh... and the address of our new house? NEW Hope, Pennsylvania.

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This week we are down to 7 days left in an air bnb and still "on vacation" and still looking for a house to call home. We also have a good friend, Graham Coyle, join us as he is visiting from England. What's interesting is that Graham was ALSO with us when we had to evacuate our home in Redding CA as the Carr fire erupted (it burned 200,000+ acres and 1,000 homes in 2018). He was with us as we initially went to my office to work out what to do and then still with us as we found a short term rental property in a safe(r) part of the city.

In this episode I have a conversation with Graham about what he observed and learned and the perspective he has for us in our current situation. I also give you the practical process we did as a family yesterday in order to get everyone on the same page with the decisions we need to make over the next week (when the current accommodation runs out).

The intended outcome is to encourage you where you are at in uncertainty and transition, to give you a practical process to help make decisions and also to inspire you to find a "Graham" that could give you perspective and, of course, ice cream, on the journey.

"The lovers of God who chase after righteousness will find all their dreams come true; an abundant life drenched with favor and a fountain that overflows with satisfaction."

Proverbs 21:21 TPT

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My 19 year old just walked into where I was looking at my phone (again) for houses for sale. She sat down and said "Dad, you reek of stress."

Wow. Solid feedback that was not fun. I thought I was hiding it better than that. If she can 'smell' the stress then obviously it's more than I think.

Reek - "to smell strongly and unpleasantly; stink."

I guess I need some more stress-work. So what will I do?

Here's the context: We are now in the Pocono mountains in an Air BnB that is confirmed until June 30... that's two weeks from today. It's supposed to be relaxing. BUT we haven't found a home yet and when we asked the family last week to ask Jesus if we are to find another short term place the unanimous answer was 'No.' We have three dogs, a truck-load of household items still in transit that is supposed to land somewhere, and a word from God. We also have one daughter working remotely, one supposed to start work in-person 1 July and two kids needing all their details sorted for new college and high school. Overlay that with my business commitments and planning for the next six months...

I already spent at least 30 minutes going over (again) what God had said and that was encouraging... sort of. It feels more like God says "Jump and I will catch you," except you are now free falling and it doesn't look like He has even moved into position.

I have two major temptations: 1. Make it happen - find a house that 'will do' or secure a 3-6 mth rental. Problem is that is going against what we all heard God say. That's called disobedience and I have five other people in this household that won't go with that option.

1. Make it go away - live in denial and avoidance and hide from the pain of the in-between. That's just not going to work when we have a calendar deadline. AND I have five other people in the household that won't go with that option either.

So what do I do? A) Learn about trust.

Let go my understanding (control). Trust means to cast my cares onto someone or something AND it is not foolish, reckless confidence (Proverbs 14:16 NLT). So it is a partnership, a relationship, an interaction and involves doing my part in the process. What's my part? Ask Holy Spirit and follow your conviction, not your fear.

B) Cry... out for help

Pray Psalm 20 (and the rest of the Psalms!). Listen for your voice in the voice of the Psalms. When it aligns, camp there and listen for what the Lord is saying to you. Write it down. Do it.

C) Worship

What else can we do? 2 Chronicles 20:12 "we don't know what to do but our eyes are on you." This is probably number one in priority. 

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We are in the middle of moving our family from Redding CA to Pennsylvania. Today we were half way across the 3,000 mile journey in our two vehicle convoy. Here's some things we are learning along the way and in particular, how I am handling the shock of finding the 'estimate' for the moving truck went from $8,000 to $14,000 to $22,000!!!

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This week we pack our house, fill up a moving truck and drive 3,000 miles from west coast to east coast of the USA. We plan on giving you some updates along the way and what we are learning. First, if you haven't heard the back-story listen to episode 127 HERE -Hearing God and Expanding to the East Coast. The first this change was even on our radar was the end of August 2022.  Leave well - have we acknowledged, honored, appreciated people and anchored connections with key people that will be ongoing? It's not until you leave that you learn the impact of what you are doing and the impact of others on you. Launch well - have we done all we need to do/can do ready to drive out of here? What about the unknowns? Land well - Do we have accommodation? How do we live in the middle of that? Learning to be present in the process. Learning to trust Testimonies: - Clients that told me not to pause payments - Surprise financial gifts - House sale multiplying our cash 6x and still needing to trust God for what's next - Gathering testimonies of people around us - houses, provision, miracles...

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Next week a moving truck is arriving to pack up our 'stuff' and then we begin the drive from California to Pennsylvania. There are a lot of goodbyes and see-you-later's happening (and a few leaky eyes). In the midst of this time I have taken some moments to reflect on what I have learned from my time here. I was privileged to work directly with Danny Silk, then Kris Vallotton and through both of them connect and receive personal feedback from Bill Johnson.

So what did I learn that you will never read in a book? Here's some inside stories...

Danny silk - Trust people more than they trust themselves

• Relationship is more important than being right

• The level of trust is the level of connection and means EVERYTHING when you are trying to lead people they don't want to go: tissue paper vs. leather 'connection'

• Two new words for my vocabulary: "What do you need to feel from me in order to thrive?"

• Keep walking and stay close: when you have someone in disagreement or conflict

• Why do you trust me? Because you recognized the culture and protected it...

Best book : Culture of Honor - How to sustain a supernatural environment

Kris Vallotton - Confrontation and courage to go after what God has spoken.

• Humility and confrontation: "You are a father in the house, you carry the culture better than anyone I know, including me and I'm sorry for any pain I caused you."

• Then WE made a mistake story

• The value of disagreement pushing back on ideas, challenging to get a bigger perspective

• Texting every few weeks when our daughter was going through crazy physical asking how she was doing and praying for us

Best book: Supernatural Ways of Royalty - Discovering your rights and privileges of being a son or daughter of God

Bill Johnson - Unwavering resolve to pursue Jesus and His kingdom on earth above all else. That friendship with God is entirely possible and accessible for all and is simple - surrender and trust and keeping your eyes on the Father

• Family above everything : Earl Johnson leaving his own annual conference to go watch Bob play basketball...

• Courage under fire: Enduring Faith - the message week recorded the before and the week after Bill's father died of cancer. Also, watching Bill now navigate his own wife battling cancer and yet Bill is on fire for the Kingdom of God and miracles.

• Love for word of God and voice of God above all else - honors people who disagree including writing them a check... Early on at Bethel turning to Beni saying 'this is it...'

• Passion for the Kingdom - I've had this as a philosophy for years but haven't known how to do it - you are doing it.

Best book: Strengthen Yourself in the Lord - How to release the hidden power of God in your life

We came here with a career and left with a story We came here with cracks in our foundation and left knowing if God is for me then no other opinion matters We came here with 12 suitcases and leave with a moving truck We came here with four children under the age of 8 and leave with four young adults who are more confident and secure in themselves and God than I was We came here out of obedience, we leave here out of vision and love We came here as a fat caterpillar and leave as a butterfly, having broken out of the cocoon

I'm sad. I'm excited. I'm grateful.

Thank you Danny and Sheri, Kris and Kathy, Bill and Beni: my life in Christ and His Kingdom is stronger and more secure AND more fruitful because of you.

The things that I heard from you among many witnesses, I have committed these to faithful men and women who are now teaching others also!

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Here's an update to our journey expanding from California to Pennsylvania. Here's what we are learning in how to walk the in-between - when you can't stay where you are but there is no clear path forward and all you can see is the step in front of you. 

We are now three weeks away from when we have to be out of our house that has sold. We don't have a house to move to... yet. Every time we look to 'just find something,' we hear God say "don't settle" and "time is on your side." So we are stuck in the middle. Or are we? What if there is something for us in the middle? What if we have to let go before God can put in place what's next? 

So what are the practical things we are doing and learning for the in-between

1. Anchor in what God said and did

=> Remember the testimony 

=> Fight with the words spoken to you: Did God really say? YES HE DID!

=> Re-write what He said daily if necessary

=> Ask for confirmation and clarity

1. Take a step

=> ACT on what He has said: ADVANCE into the 'middle', let go CONTROL, TRUST His Timing and that He makes your way perfect

=> Little step is OK.... actually it is wise

=> Keep big picture reference points: wise counsel, long term view

1. Manage the 'shakes'

=> Do something physical, daily

=> Keep your focus on others - who could you encourage?

=> Stay present, protect the priorities

=> Listen daily - live by the WORD

=> Stay connected, prioritize and protect the relationships

=> LISTEN TO SONG HERE - https://youtu.be/QXTvm72lSvo

If you haven't done so already, stay connected with Heaven in Business by following the testimonies we post on Facebook.com/Heaveninbusiness, meeting in person at an upcoming event (HeaveninBusiness.com), or joining the community and weekly live call.

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Welcome to Texas!!! This session you will hear some practical keys and inspiring stories of how to partner with God at work. Brandon Haire is 100% Texan (listen and you will understand) and the Operating Partner for Princeton Equity Group. Prior to this role he was VP of Franchise Development for Neighborly. 

This episode is from the recent Heaven in Business conference and is part of the ongoing content library of Heaven in Business membership. Join to get connected, trained and activated to partner with God at work and engage in the wellbeing of the city you serve.

To access your free 7 day trial click HERE or go to HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

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In this episode I interview Bill Johnson, Senior Leader of Bethel Church on the topic of the Kingdom of God and how this applies to our work/business. 

If you would like to go deeper in understanding and applying the principles and power of the Kingdom of God to your business, then join me for a five day launch process: How to Activate Kingdom Business. Find out more and sign up free here - KingdominBusiness.org

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We just had the craziest week ever! We were on the east coast looking (unsuccessfully) for house. We then had an executive retreat with 30 business leaders (outstanding!). In the middle our daughter took herself to the ER with chest pain (she's now ok). We have another daughter navigating a student tragedy on her college campus. Then our flight home got delayed overnight. Then they dropped me off the next flight so Janine would have gone home alone and somehow I was flying ANOTHER day later (It's ok we managed to sort it out). Needless to say, it was an emotional and spiritual rollercoaster.

In the middle, our youngest (15yr old) daughter sent us a text:

"Read Matthew 16 9 to 12"

So we did. Actually, the same story is in Mark 8:17-18 in more detail.

It's the story of the disciples who are with Jesus on a boat and he talks about the leaven of the pharisees and of Herod. The disciples are clueless (again) and wonder whether He is messing with them because they forgot to bring lunch. Jesus challenges them with these questions:

1. Why do you reason amongst yourselves? (stuck in your head - mind)

2. Do you not perceive? (understand with your heart - spirit)

3. Is your heart still hardened? (clueless to what is really going on and who you are with)

Basically the unspoken answer is "YES I AM STUCK IN MY HEAD TRYING TO WORK THIS OUT AND I DON'T UNDERSTAND AND I GUESS MY HEART IS HARD..."

"So, please help me!"

Here's the good news: God will give you a new heart if you simply ask...

"Create in me a clean heart Oh God, and renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10

"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit with you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." Ezekiel 36:26

Then, how do you STAY UNstuck? How do you KEEP a tender heart? How do you stay in faith rather than running circles in your head (logic and reason)?

Here's the deal - Jesus lays it out real simple:

1. What do/did you see? What do you see God doing in you, around you, through you? What do you see happening? Lean into it.

2. What do/did you hear? What do you hear God saying? Are you doing that? How are you keeping His Voice louder than all the other noises?

3. What do you remember? Even when we can't see or hear anything, we can ALWAYS remember. What has God done in the past that you need to remember? How has he led or provided or protected you?

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What do you do when you have a plan that isn't going according to plan??!! Right now we are in Pennsylvania for the second time this month looking for a home for when we move in June. The deadline is fast approaching. We have yet to sell our California home. We have yet to find a suitable home here. We hear God say 'don't settle' (don't lower our expectations) and 'trust me.' So how do you practically trust God in the midst of shortening timeframes? How do you navigate expectations? How do you avoid getting irritable, anxious, uptight and discouraged? Here's my routine that is (mostly) working! 

First I like to anchor myself in the DAILY word of God. If I'm not sure where to start, I always defer to the Proverb that matches the date. I read until I find myself in the words. Or something I read resonates within me, even if my head doesn't understand. Here's the process for now:

Today I read in Proverbs 18:10 (TPT) "The character of God is a tower of strength (homonym – bed of flowers), for the lovers of God delight to run into His heart and be exalted on high."

This combines with what I read the day before in Psalm 17:4-6 (TPT): "Following your word has kept me from wrong. Your ways have molded my footsteps, keeping me from going down the paths of the violent. MY STEPS FOLLOW IN THE TRACKS OF YOUR CHARIOT WHEELS, ALWAYS STAYING IN THEIR PATH, NEVER STRAYING FROM YOUR WAY. You will answer me God; I know you always will. Hear my words like you always do as you listen to my every prayer."

I write down the scripture in my journal then reflect on my situation and what the scripture means: We are fighting for peace and direction in transition and uncertainty. God’s word and ways are my anchor, strength, hiding place, protection and safety – unmoving, impenetrable, bulletproof, fixed and firm… a shield of defense… resolute – tense and high adrenalin but strong and stable. AND at the same time (or other side of the coin), I can step back from the front line decision making and rest in His character and nature and ways that are a bed of flowers. Like grandmothers garden… beautiful, comfort, rest, breath-in refreshing oasis of peace… where the only decision I have to make is whether Grandma buys me one or two pieces of battered fish for lunch 😊

So what will I do = Action. Today I do BOTH. Meditating on his character and ways that are the tracks that I walk in – protection and comfort; following His way to His victory. AS I WALK I anchor my heart in His character and He will keep me from wrong decisions or wrong timing. I trust He will answer me.

So we go to look at houses… not knowing any of these are the right one or whether our offer would be accepted or whether our house would sell in time.

Nevertheless I keep following in the tracks of His chariot wheels. I follow the Good Shepherd.

Stay tuned! If this is an encouragement to you please post a review on Apple Podcasts and share the feedback.

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You may think I'm weird, but I have ALWAYS had a sense that there is more to life than following a set of rules or principles or fulfilling some form of Christian religious obligation. I believe that it is truly possible to walk in friendship the Creator of the Universe and this should be a daily experience (for everyone) in ALL of life... not just an event or 'quiet-time.'

The last decade I've been devoted to pursuing this partnership with God in all of life even more. We call it Heaven in Business. And the fruit has started to multiply - people all over the world partnering with God, following His voice, and getting wisdom and insight for day to day decisions. We have recorded over 700 testimonies ourselves but there truly are too many to count.

For the last two years I've gone deeper into what are the keys to live this out on a consistent basis. Everything points back to a clearer understanding of the Kingdom of God and my relationship with the King. This is called seeking FIRST His Kingdom, His way (see Matthew 6:33).

Ive been reading Myles Munro and Jack Taylor and E.Stanley Jones and Bill Johnson. I've rubbed shoulders with national faith-centered business leaders and refined the language and learning. And now we are ready to give it to you.

Why is it free? Because I received it for free - freely received, freely give. I want you to experience what I am experiencing. More so, I am RELYING on you to succeed! I will never be all I am called to be without you stepping into who you were born to be. You carry an aspect of the nature of God that all creation is longing for.

So don't wait, jump in!

Here's how I can help you on your journey...

I'm doing a one hour live call, daily, for the first week of May. Join me. I will give you the best keys I know to access and activate the Kingdom of God in your workplace. You will also get full access to interviews on the Kingdom of God that I did with Bill Johnson, Kris Vallotton and Shae Bynes. You can access that right now! AND you get the one page summary of 'What is Kingdom Business' that Shae and I put together with Patrice Tsague and Mark Caner - all proven practitioners of the Kingdom of God at work.

So, what's stopping you?

Simply sign up at KingdominBusiness.org and I will see you soon!

In the meantime read the testimonies on Facebook.com/HeaveninBusiness and SPREAD THE WORD!

It's so valuable, it's free!

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God's way sometimes looks foolish. In other words, His way is not always the best strategy... from a human perspective. You can try to reason your way around it and you will always come up short. Bottom line is will you be led by the Spirit of God or will you settle for human wisdom? What is the best strategy? 

We are in Pennsylvania looking for a house for our family (see Episode 127: Hearing God and Expanding to the East Coast). We have been here for week. We thought we would have sold our California house and be in a position to make a strong offer over here. But it hasn't worked like we expected. We haven't yet sold our house. And we haven't yet found a house that we all love over here. That delay and disappointment and failed expectation reveals where my trust and faith really lie. The level of stress and irritability and feeling out-of-control would indicate that my faith is being invited to grow! (That's putting it nicely).

It also pushes on why on earth would we leave the 'best place on earth'? Why would we leave our dream house? Couldn't we just stay there and travel over here...? Surely we could make some arrangement? Think of all the uncertainty and expense and change in relationships and risk and potential loss and failure... Surely it would be a better strategy to keep our base in Redding, CA and not Pennsylvania, 3,000 miles east?

Yes that would be the easier strategy right now.

Then I have what God said. You are seeing things merely from a human point of view, not from God’s. John 16:23 

This foolish plan of God is wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God’s weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength. 1 Corinthians 1:25 

The cross NEVER looked easy. Surrender and trust NEVER look easy. 

But will I trust Him even when I can't see it working?

I will.

So, HOW do you do that??? 1. Remember He is your GOOD Shepherd. Psalm 23. He can lead better than you know how to follow. You are clueless compared to what He knows about what's best for you.

1. Remember the testimony. Reflect on and repeat to yourself the stories of God leading and providing in the past.

2. Don't let your heart get troubled. John 14:1 This is hard when surrounded by uncertainty. I need to keep declaring and praying and feeding myself with His voice, otherwise i do get troubled. Sometimes I need to phone a friend and ask them to pray. Sometimes I need to just go for a run and get some of the physical pent-up-energy released. Sometimes I need to put on worship music... the kind that is not passive or depressing! Sometimes I just need to stand still and realize I control a lot less of my life than I think. 

So, when the Son of Man comes searching will He find FAITH?

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Litigation is expensive! And MOST of it can be avoided. That's why we asked Brock Shinen to share the four areas where most legal issues occur and even better, what YOU can do to avoid ending up in one of them!

This content was used with permission from the Heaven in Business membership platform where you can grow in identity, grow in culture and grow in influence with God at work. Find out more HeaveninBusiness.com

If you have any questions following this episode, please don't hesitate to email us andy@heaveninbusiness.com

Also, check out Brock's most recent book The Christian Entrepreneur - How to Dream, Plan, Execute and Grow.

Brock Shinen is a lawyer, a speaker, an author, and the founder of the Law Office of Brock Shinen, Inc., which represents some of the largest churches in America. Brock is a sought-after business advisor and personal business strategist to globally recognized organizations and ministries. He has spoken at conferences and business gatherings including the National Religious Broadcasters national convention, the Southern Baptist national convention, and the Vineyard USA National Conference, and his writing has been featured in publications such as the Huffington Post. Brock lives with his wife and two children in Orange County, California.

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What does the Kingdom of God, California High School wrestling championships, and your business have in common?

Listen and learn... This is an edited version of the foundational session at the recent Heaven in Business conference. If you want more of this and practically unpack how to activate this in your own place of work, join us for a free course. Find out more KingdominBusiness.org.

Other resources I refer to in this session are the following books: The Cosmic Initiative by Jack Taylor

The Unshakeable Kingdom and the Unchanging Person by E. Stanley Jones

Rediscovering the Kingdom by Myles Munroe

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There are a LOT of things going on at the moment! What we are finding is that MANY people have let go of their spiritual anchor and are wondering why they are overwhelmed, distracted and feeling like they are losing. STOP! The battle is FIRST in the spirit realm. When you realign and understand this, then take intentional steps from your spiritual authority, things start to change.

Here's a message we intentionally sent out this week to the Heaven in Business community. It is Kris Vallotton talking about Spirit Wars. Listen then grab a copy of Kris's free resources on KVministries.org. 

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Last week I was IN THE ROOM where some incredible things happened. It was our annual Heaven in Business conference and the theme was Kingdom Business. Here's a report that will GREATLY encourage you and release hope in midst of your world.

Listen and you will hear:

• Business multiplication 120% ($10M) in two weeks

• 90+minute budgeting process completed in TWO minutes

• Breast cancer disappears and is verified by doctor

• Kingdom of God is advancing at work and YOU are invited to grab hold of it (find out more Kingdominbusiness.org)

• Salvation and Miracles

Previous attendees are sending their employees to conferences. We didn't know they were unsaved. One attendee from Alaska was so impacted by the love and power of God she was led to Jesus Thursday night by her fellow attendees.

One speaker had a dream Thursday night that he and I were embracing Bill and Beni and praying for their health. He DID NOT KNOW what is happening with Beni. As he shared this with me a 22yr old woman walked in with her parents asking to attend one day. Turns out she is brand new oncology nurse and one week ago diagnosed with aggressive form of breast cancer. We got ALL in room with cancer to stand and surrounded them and prayed for healing. WHILE WE WERE PRAYING one man received phone call from doctor saying he was all clear. Many were greatly impacted. Later report the 22yr old went to healing rooms Saturday and by end of day lumps were reduced in size and pain gone. She went back to doctor the following Tuesday and the report is attached. NO SUSPICIOUS MASSES, NO ABNORMALITY, NO MALIGNANCY.

1. Guests

We had 215 guests plus our team and speakers. Although we had personally had contact with many of them through Heaven in Business travel and online activity, this was the FIRST time to Redding for about three quarters of them. We had people from east coast to west coast of USA plus Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Germany, Philippines, Indonesia, Austria, England....

We got the entire group to pray multiple times for Ukraine/Russia conflict. Turned out there were a number of Ukrainians and Russians in the room (US residents) so we surrounded them. One married couple was Ukraine husband and Russian wife who had not been able to have children. Powerful prayer moment.

12 local businesses came in to the conference on Friday and we had the guests activated to pray for them. Excellent reports.

1. Immediate Application.

The testimonies we are hearing back are SUPER encouraging. Here's a couple emails:

"I cant thank you enough for facilitating the recent Heaven in Business conference. We really didn't know what to expect but we were so filled up!!! I have been a Christian my whole life 48 years and somehow the revelation of Kingdom came alive in a whole new way!! I am so excited to know, understand and explore the kingdom of God on earth!!!

I was physically healed during conference which is a side note. Monday morning at 7 am we laid hands on my employee and God healed him instantly! He was so shocked. It was a conformation we are doing the right thing and more to come. I felt super compelled to start a prayer meeting immediately. We had our first one today and there was 9 of us. I was so blessed I feel elated. I am so excited for the fire that was started and its just the beginning. Pray for us as we continue to pray and look for opportunities to bless our clients and business around us."

"Last week in Redding at the HIB conference was life-changing for me and my wife. A time we will never forget and my wife was totally healed (back/knee)! I’ve been to every Heaven in Business Redding main conference since January 2018: this conference was a qualitative shift that reflects the season that we are in right now.

I am living, thinking, acting differently and seeing an entirely different level of breakthrough because of the transformation and impartation that I received at this conference this year.

Something very special is happening here. We are grateful to be working in the Family Office with all of you!"

One guests' Takeaways:

• This conference wasn’t about me, or you, it was about US, the royal members of the Kingdom of God.
• We have immense authority in prayer within business to further the Father’s purposes our lives. It should be no less a strategic asset inside a company than your finance group or your marketing group.
• When it’s deployed strategically, it can transform our situation and bring us more into alignment with the Father’s way of doing Kingdom business.
• We work for the biggest Family Office in the universe.
• We are the spiritual and financial stewards of the family and business assets God has entrusted to us.
• We have been given these assets so they might grow, be a blessing in the earth, and further God’s purposes of His Kingdom of Love to come to earth.
• We are here to create a rich divine inheritance at every level, to shift the atmosphere of every city we live in, and to transform every person and system of this world that we touch.
• Our Father’s influence, authority, wisdom and power is unrivaled and unmatched anywhere in the world. We have full access to it.
• We have authority over all systems of this world - regardless of who’s currently operating them.
• That’s not a statement of pride, that’s the situational reality - on earth as it is in Heaven.
• When we are stewarding our Father’s resources and when we need something done, we pray, we gain the spiritual intelligence required to align the systems of this world to do what our Kingdom business requires. We have authority over the systems of this world.
• We don’t move solely in business understanding and best practices ( the world can do that), we also move in divine Love, wisdom and understanding, spiritual and emotional intelligence, power and authority. We are powered by the Spirit of God.
• We have the authority to transform the systems of this world to become the systems of our Lord and of his Christ.
• We can do this because our lives and our work are aligned with the Kingdom of God. Because we know this and live out of this confidence, we reflect the lovingkindness and gentleness of our Father; we transform every person we encounter with His love; we are His fragrance in the earth.
• Every transaction we make leaves His mark of Grace.
• People don’t forget us because the aroma of Heaven is upon us.

• And lastly, the most important takeaway from Michelle Raftery: "When we cross the eternal finish line and look behind us, our family members must cross with us, or our successes are for naught." Thank you Michelle, I needed to SEE that. (Credit - Paul van Hoesen, Nashville, TN)

• We are going ALL IN

The topic of the Kingdom was the most significant theme that Jesus talked about. So we are doing the same. If you want to know more, get activated and advance the Kingdom of God in and through your work jump onto this FREE resource - KingdominBusiness.org then join us on the live calls May 2-6: How to Activate Kingdom Business

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Here's a quick update on what's going on preparing to move from our home of the last 13 years, to the Pennsylvania in June, 2022. What emotions am I feeling and how do I handle that? (And if this is news to you, first listen to Podcast #127 Hearing God and Expanding to the East Coast)

1. Sadness Redding is not a drive-thru city - I'm feeling the sadness of leaving people and a city I have invested in for over a decade. Grief is normal... when you have built into a community. Friends. Partners. Team. I am working on being ok with that and working through the feelings (kind of new for me!). I do have a professional counselor and wish I had her as part of my advisory team a couple decades ago!!!

In preparation of moving I am already planning ahead for who I will meet with on a regular basis so that I have eyes-on wise counsel and peers who can speak into my life.

=> who do you have in your life that actually knows you? What are you doing to build that around you?

1. Overwhelmed When I think too far ahead of myself and all the details that need to be confirmed I feel overwhelmed.

I am working on being present. I have grace for today. I cannot control things in the future; I can control what I do today. I will do today what I need to do today and trust God with tomorrow.

=> where have you got ahead of yourself and fighting anxiety as a result? What is right in front of you that you need to focus on? How's your prayer life, trusting God for everything else?

1. Excited Actually I'm feeling crazy excited. Things coming together as one. Simplified systems. Sharper focus. More robust online Heaven in Business membership community adding tactical business growth in partnership with Ray Edwards (Marketing), Ford Taylor (Leadership and Organizational Growth), Krish Dhanam (Sales), Patrice Tsague (Startup), Ken Fish (Healing, Deliverance, Prophetic...)...

And we are kicking off a Five Day Launch Process: How to activate Kingdom Business to help understand, access and apply the Kingdom of God in your day to day work. Find out more and spread the word - KingdominBusiness.org

If you have any questions or comments please don't hesitate to contact me andy@heaveninbusiness.com

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This week we have our annual Heaven in Business conference and the theme is Kingdom Business. What is the Kingdom of God? What does this look like in business? How do you access it? Is it just principles or is there something more. 

In this episode I interview Kris Vallotton, Senior Associate Leader of Bethel Church on the topic of the Kingdom of God. This was recorded for conference attendees and members of the Heaven in Business community. 

If you would like to go deeper in understanding and applying the principles and power of the Kingdom of God to your business, then join me for a five day launch process: How to Activate Kingdom Business, the first week in May. Find out more and sign up free here - KingdominBusiness.org

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A lot is happening! We have a house on the market, a new website in development, college and high school applications underway, conference numbers filling up, travel booked, end of season wrestling tournaments... and I am part of my first political campaign team to re-elect the local Sheriff. There are lot's of highs and lows and uncertainty. So how do I navigate change (and disappointment and delay) and keep peace and joy? 

Well, first thing is it's a journey. There are good days and bad days... Last weekend we had a series of disappointments. 

So what and how do I navigate all this? 

Listen as I unpack some things I'm excited about, some challenges and how I'm navigating this - do your part, stay present and having having done all, stand.

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This conversation between Patrice Tsague and Andy Mason was recorded leading up to the Kingdom Business conference in Redding, CA Feb 23-25, 2022. There is still room for you to join us and we will be recording the sessions that will be released into the Heaven in Business online community over the next few months.

What is Kingdom business?

Can you operate kingdom principles without connection to the king?

What is the Great Awakening Project?

Listen to find out..

Join us in Redding to experience it.

Heaveninbusiness.com/kingdom-business

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Our confidence gets challenged when something doesn't go according to our expectation... OR when we step out to do something new - whether that is expanding your business or starting a new venture or even beginning a relationship. How we respond when confidence is challenged reveals whether it is limited to us, OR whether we have a source of confidence that is bigger....

Here's some keys to help you grow in confidence when you find yourself in a confidence-gap.

Please comment and subscribe or find out more Heaveninbusiness.com

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Is goal setting and planning with Jesus any different to 'ordinary' goal setting? Do you just make up best educated guess for the year or is there some secret formula to work out where you will be? Here's three simple keys I use to make business plans WITH Jesus, using examples from our current 'expanding-to-the-east-coast' mandate.

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After more than ten years being based in Redding, CA, Heaven in Business is expanding to the East Coast of USA. This will involve my family moving to Pennsylvania in June, 2022, adding proximity to New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC.... and direct flights to most of the United States!

In this podcast I unpack this (surprise) direction for us, how we heard from God, how we translated this to practical action and are navigating the stakeholders in the process.

This is a strategic move in line with much prayer and prophetic input that has become clear over the last 12 months.

Heaven in Business remains in strong relationship with Bethel Church leadership as we continue to advance the vision that Bill Johnson and Kris Vallotton have stewarded for over three decades. Part of the Heaven in Business team (Michelle Raftery) will remain in Redding and we have ongoing events planned in Redding, both in 2022 and beyond.

Overall, Heaven in Business will continue to connect, train and activate people to partner with God at work and engage in the wellbeing of cities. The existing conferences, retreats and membership community will continue while we also seek to further refine how to disciple people who are discipling cities.

We are also enjoying a growing collaboration between multiple faith and work movements including Business Empowered, At Work on Purpose, Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur, Nehemiah Project, Transformational Leadership, Marketplace Chaplains and more.... preparing for the great awakening that we see ALREADY happening in the marketplace.

We will share more over the coming months. The key thing for you to know is that in the near future there will be a Heaven in Business event or partner closer to YOU!

If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact us. We have highlighted some expected questions below.

Peace to your house,

Andy Mason, Michelle Raftery and the Heaven in Business team

FAQ:

What events are already planned for 2022 and where will these be located?

• See Heaveninbusiness.com/open-events

• There are also events yet to be posted for Birmingham (Mar 18th), Colorado (Apr 8-9), Pennsylvania (Sep 15-17) and more...

Who will be leading the Redding Heaven in Business community and city initiatives?

• There have been a number of initiatives led by different people and we will be highlighting those over the coming months, starting with a local gathering Thursday January 20th 7-8:30pm at The Salthouse, 1823 Pine St, Redding

How can we participate in this transition as Andy & Janine move east?

• We will share more in the coming months. Our prayer is to be able to take a month following the move, to rest and to hear God more specifically about His strategy going forward. If you want to financially support this process you can donate to Heaven in business or simply let us know and we can direct you accordingly.

Can we invite the team to do an event in our city?

• Absolutely. 2022 is already mostly full and we will be looking into strategic locations for 2023.

Will the Heaven in Business membership be changing?

• We plan on adding more guided courses and partnership resources eg. Andy's Hey God What Now course and Ford Taylor's Transformational Leadership.

What does a city partnership look like and how can I start one?

• Great question! We will address this separately.

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Here's what I'm hearing God say for 2022, how I hear Him say it, and what that practically means for my year.

I was actually sick between Christmas and New Years which was certainly not fun. Some serious man-flu that we thought was COVID until the test came back negative. My biggest problem was just when I was 'almost' back to health I jumped into a big day doing some outside-the-house jobs that wiped me out and sent me back to bed for a further 24-48hrs. Listen to your wife, Andy!!!

So what did I hear God say for 2022?

1. Forget about what was and focus on what is about to be 

Forget what happened last year, and the year before, and the year before that. Don’t go over and over it in your head to understand or play through different scenario's of 'What if..." or "I should have..." Instead, focus on what’s ahead, because it is going to require all your attention.

You have grace for today, mercy for yesterday and hope for tomorrow. 

So let it go. 

Think Frozen, and Lion King. It's in the past... you can run from it or you can learn from it.

2. 

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Happy New Year! This is a short post to wish you the very best and thank you for being a listener to this podcast! As we wrap up 2021 and jump into 2022 I want you to be setup to succeed. The best I know how is to realign with a hope-filled future regardless of what you may be facing. So to practically equip you to do that, we are giving you a physical copy of Finding Hope in Crazy Times. It's 30 short chapters that you can use like a daily inspiration. Each chapter has a story, a divine moment, an application and a simple activation for you. The stories are taken from our own life and my journal as I processed crazy life circumstances and challenges over the last decade.

So, simply click this link to our paypal account, contribute $5 for postage (USA) or $15 if international, and we will get the book in the mail to you. Paypal.me/findinghopebook

If you want to find out more about the book first, read the reviews on Amazon or check out the endorsements below.... HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Finding hope is essential to a successful life. In these pages you'll find a guide who has a string of successes finding exactly what you are looking for. Andy Mason is a hope seeking missile! He has a beautiful attitude in any challenge he faces. I've heard him say "just keep walking" a thousand times. His tenacity to believe the best and to trust God will inspire you to do the same. I highly recommend you allow Andy to guide you in Finding Hope!

DANNY SILK President of Loving on Purpose Author of Keep Your Love On and Culture of Honor

Life is a wild and crazy adventure, and if you've found yourself in the midst of challenging times, you will surely find your own story within these pages. More importantly you'll find encouragement and will encounter the goodness of an extravagantly loving God.

SHAE BYNES Founder of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur, Atlanta, GA Author of Grace Over Grind: How Grace Will Take Your Business Where Grinding Can't

Andy Mason has given us a great gift. In this book, he shares the accumulated spiritual wisdom gained through years of allowing God to lead him through life's trials and tests. Every page I read encourages me. I know it will encourage you too."

RAY EDWARDS International Speaker and Author of How to Write Copy that Sells

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Welcome to the messy intersection of faith, family and business! Jesus, Savior of the world came directly into mess.

• a messy stable

• a messy relationship

• a messy pregnancy

• a messy nation under Roman control

• a messy stable and manger

• the mess continues..... and in the middle of this mess God declared "I bring you good news of great joy!!!"

WHAT's THE POINT?

1. You need a savior to save you of something 

=> stop pretending you don't have a mess. Simply acknowledge it and you release grace for saving!

1. Jesus didn't avoid mess so don't you avoid it either...

=> Dont' just acknowledge there's a mess; jump right in knowing that He is with you in the middle of it

1. HOW we jump in is critical

A) Six step apology

B) 100% truth, 100% love, 100% humility

C) With a friend who will hold you to being your best self

1. Remember the covenant you have with Jesus = communion. Access the forgiveness, the covering, the comfort, the wisdom... all that you need through union with Christ

Merry Christ-in-your-Mess!!!!

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Lately I've observed a stark contrast between people that are in 'bunker mentality' fighting to survive in a 'war' (whether real or not) and those stepping up, standing out and advancing in family, in business and in life. BOTH are in the same environment. The difference to me is 1. Perspective 2. Identity and 3. Intentional generosity - of time, talent, resources. The first group are in a bunker thinking mostly of themselves. This is poverty. The second group are thinking about their family, their team, their community. The key to shift? Divorcing poverty of mind - smallness of perspective and power, and embracing intentional generosity.

WE divorce poverty. My victory is not mine alone. Poverty caps you and limits you from what God has in mind for you. It ALSO limits you to you… it silo's you with your own life and cancels the corporate victory that you are called to be a part of.

Generosity uncaps you and unlocks you to be a part of an investment community where we get to see all around us lifted up. The gospel is not good news for me alone; it is good news for US.

WE divorce poverty, small mindedness, stinginess and lack.

We embrace generosity and victory and intentionally look how we can help those around us advance.

So… grab a couple friends and tell one another: 1. What would victory look like over the next few weeks in your business?

List three PRACTICAL things or measures eg. #sales or outcome of a conflict/lawsuit/situation

1. Exchange lists with one another so that you get to pray over their victory as if it was your own.

Do this, with communion, for the next month, daily!

Let one another know progress.

1. What could you practically and intentionally do to help one another gain a victory?

This session was originally recorded just after the Carr Fire in Redding, CA when 200,000 acres burned around our immediate community. Bunker mentality would have turned the disaster into permanent disadvantage or constraint. Generosity positioned us to navigate the disaster and make practical gains every step of the way - not just individually, as a community.

So, what will you do this week?

This session was recorded as part of the focused content for Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial. If you want to grow in your partnership with God at work and engage in the wellbeing of the city you serve, then join a like minded community doing the same. Find out more Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

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Last week we heard a series of independent testimonies that were ALL about how God delivered people from messes, mistakes, errors and even outright crazy actions! The theme was so obvious we leaned into it and summarized them here for you and what God is saying as a result: HE HAS YOU COVERED! GOD HAS YOUR BACK.

Where did we hear these testimonies? Every week with Heaven in Business we have a strategic and tactical prayer call. That looks like about 30minutes of good news from all over the world, followed by focussed prayer around a particular passage of scripture that anchors our week. We have people from USA, Australia, New Zealand, India, UK, Canada, Norway, Netherlands, Germany, Ireland and more. And the stories of God at work are outstanding!

We then take the next 30mins to pray through a key scripture passage that we sense is for 'now'. Last week was Isaiah 55. Check it out!

And if you want to join us on the prayer call and access the benefits find out more on Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

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In the messy intersection of faith, family and business we need an anchor... so we don't go crazy some days!!! An anchor keeps you stable and secure regardless of the storm. And the bigger the seas the bigger your anchor needs to be.

Metaphorically, your anchor is the sum total of the daily disciplines that secure your soul. That may include physical exercise, eating well, relationships, fun... and what I want to emphasize in this episode: what we are listening to or reading.

In the midst of my busy schedule I have some key practices that make it possible for me to read a bunch of books every month, without taking away from all the other activities of work and family and fun. Here's my process and some of the ways that I am feeding myself:

1. Anchor your day and night. I start each morning by reading my bible. If I don't know where to read, my default is the book of proverbs that lines up with the day of the month.

In the evening I will read a few pages of a book - physical copy. This helps slow me down, center my thoughts and prepare me for sleep (I learned this off my wife).

1. Anchor your margin moments. I don't have a bunch of free time in my day. But there is always a 20min drive if Im going into town and 20-30min if I'm going for a run or walk (if alone). I find that there is always time to double up listening while doing chores or exercising or doing something on the house.

2. Choose your anchor. Everyone is listening to something; you choose WHAT you will listen to. The default is social media and the news. That's never uplifting or building your future. So you have to intentionally choose what you will listen to - anchor YOURself. Here's what and how I'm doing that myself:

3. Audiobooks: currently I'm listening to True Spirituality by Francis Shaeffer and have some half finished books including Business Adventures by John Brooks, YouTube Secrets by Sean Cannell and Dream Big by Bob Goff. Taking my son down to a cross country event over the weekend we listened in the five hour car ride (one way) to Living With a Seal (warning - rough language) and Band of Brothers.

4. Physical books: the Bible (daily!) and current focus books. At the moment my favorite is Network Power: The Science of Making a Difference by David Seel. I also have some unfinished books beside my bed and in the drawer.

5. Ebooks: currently I'm reading The Seed of a Nation by Darrel Fields. It's the story of William Penn and the "Holy Experiment" of Pennsylvania.

6. Podcasts: I regularly listen to God is Not a Theory with Ken Fish and Ford Taylor Talks and a bunch of others as I feel inspired.

So what is your favorite book so far this year and are you an audiobook or physical book person?

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When you understand the significance of your daily work EVERYTHING changes. Here's seven keys how God views your work. I encourage you to search these out for yourself and let me know what impacts you as a result. Also, if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to contact me andy@authentic-solutions.com or see HeaveninBusiness.com for more.

1. Jesus broke the curse - John 19:30

2. Work is worship - Genesis 2:15

3. Anointed work displaces demonic powers - Zechariah 1:18-

4. Don't exclude yourself or call what you do "unclean" - Acts 10:15

5. Don't reduce your walk with Jesus to an event - Matthew 6:33

6. Let God anoint YOU - Acts 10:38 and Genesis 33

7. EVERYTHING is the Lords - Ephesians 2:10 and Psalm 24

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Processing learning from last weeks executive retreat and from having a building that was seemingly bigger than we need… until God said “It’s not empty.” I’m learning about creating space or room for God. In this podcast I tell the story of what happened last week. I also unpack how I so often fill my ‘spaces’ with more activity and God is inviting me to create and protect space… even where/when it feels awkward.

So where do you need to create space in your life? Tired? Worn out? Restless? Anxious? Perhaps it's time to take the reins back and rewrite your schedule and priorities. 

What about intentionally creating space in your day, in your home, in your business... to see what God will fill it with?

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Ever wondered what it's like to get business direction from God and what happens as a result? Does that mean everything goes smoothly? How do you know what is your part and what is His part to do? Over the last few episodes I've been unpacking How to Make Decisions, How to Dream With God and a bunch of examples. This episode join me as I unpack how we heard God to take Heaven in Business online, the steps we took to implement that and the learning along the way.

Here's some key points: - Big vision... dreaming with God

• Stuck... how do we realize the big dream

• God spoke... SURPRISE

• How do we implement what He said... people, product, process, price

=> miracle funding

• Bumps in the process... not going how we thought

=> platform can't do what was promised

=> second platform can't do what we want

=> third platform crashed... and rebuilt better, faster, smoother

• Next???

Learning: 1. Human thinking takes time to align with Heaven's thinking 2. You have not because you ask not... so ask BIG 3. Wise counsel makes wiser plans 4. The journey is more important 5. Everybody grows in the process

Finally - online is way more than a membership site... exec retreat, courses, coaching

If you want to check out our online platform and access the weekly inspirational and strategic prayer, access a free trial HERE.

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You were never supposed to go it alone. Better yet, I am WITNESSING a measure of results in businesses that I am working with that I can ONLY attribute to "this must be God." Actually, it's legit because I read about it in Psalm 133 and Matthew 18. Check this out...

Behold, how GOOD and how PLEASANT [it is]

For brethren to dwell together in unity!

...

For there the LORD COMMANDED THE BLESSING - Life forevermore.

Psalm 133:1, 3

I also tell you this:

If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you.

Matthew 18:19

A force multiplier is a military term that refers to a factor or combination of factors that, when used together gives a significant increase in combat potential. Think army vs. army plus navy vs. army plus navy plus airforce. It's not 1 + 1; it literally multiplies that power and impact... 1 + 1 = 1,000!

You can access this yourself and this episode unpacks how as I interview a panel of four businessmen in one group and what they are experiencing.

1. What is it that I'm seeing in authentic community ?

2. Check out the testimonies... wisdom, power, connections, perspective, encouragement, comfort

3. Growth in business profitability, growth as a husband and father, as a person...

4. What are the barriers to building authentic community? – Commitment - performance-based-identity - willingness to be vulnerable

5. Fear – Pride – Lies – Ignorance

6. What baseline criteria do you look for in WHO to build community with? – Authenticity, love me enough to tell truth, wisdom (body scars and wrinkles), excellent at what is good, innocent of evil, evidence of God-walk, commitment to DO THIS.

If you would love to be a part of a community like this email us - contact@Heaveninbusiness.com

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Ever wondered what it's like to experience miracle provision? Here's a case study of what happened for us in regard to our dream house. This is an example of dreaming with God and the practical steps we took to partner with Him in walking it out. It was scary... emotionally and financially more scary than most other things I have done. Yet the greatest outcome is not the house; it is the trust that grew in my relationship with Jesus. May the same happen for you.

Key points:

• A sacrifice

• A promise

• A delay

• An answer... in part

• Contentedness

• Disruption and dreaming bigger

• Another Delay

• Discovery!

• Disappointment

• R I S K

• Disaster one and disaster two

• Don't know what to do

• Miracles

If you have any questions or comments please don't hesitate to contact me andy@authentic-solutions.com

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Last episode (#114) you heard an introduction to dreaming with God. This episode I share the journey and outcome of a dream to go deep sea fishing combined with a spiritual retreat.

If you enjoy this podcast please help spread the word by posting a review and hitting subscribe. You can also send any questions or comments to andy@authentic-conversations.com

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It costs nothing to dream; it costs everything not to.

God had a dream and wrapped your body around it. Lou Engle

When you discover and live out the dreams and desires of your heart you release hope, Life and purpose all around you. The world needs you to dream!

So how do you dream and turn that into practical action steps?

Join us for a 5-week online course starting October 21. Find out details by emailing contact@Heaveninbusiness.com or Andy@authentic-solutions.com.

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Last episode (#112) I unpacked eight keys to help make decisions... WITH God. I referred to one of our biggest decisions which was to leave the comfort and stability of our home in New Zealand and move the family to the USA. At the time it seemed crazy leaving the growing business influence and momentum, let alone leaving behind family and friends and a community I was familiar with. A decade later I can look back and definitively say, THAT WAS GOD!

So this episode I'm going to walk you through the process of hearing God, understanding the timing and even the location. It will also be no-holds-barred letting you in on the challenges and lessons I learned in the process.

For you.... what decisions are you facing (or avoiding) that are an invitation to make WITH God? What would you do if you were fearless?

If you want to go deeper in learning how to hear God for practical decisions you make on a daily basis check out our short course - HEYGODWHATNOW.com or grab a copy of Finding Hope in Crazy Times: daily stories of hearing God (on Amazon.)

Once again, don't hesitate to post a review, subscribe to this podcast and send any questions or comments to andy@authentic-conversations.com

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Last week my wife and I celebrated 23 years of marriage and 13 years being in the USA. Those were some significant decisions and time has proven them to be GOOD ones! So how do you decide? Whether that's a new product line or who you will marry, here's some tips that have worked for me:

1. WHO do you let decide?

Make sure that you are the one making the decisions and not passively letting them be made by email, social media, the size of your vehicle, pride/ego/fear or some other significant voice. Freedom equals "I tell me what to do... and I do it." (Danny Silk).

You are the only one who governs your time and choices... unless you are in prison...

1. Don't do this:

Don't rush in or be hasty. It's not good to have zeal without knowledge or be hasty and miss the way. Proverbs 19:2

Don't ignore the due diligence process. Pay attention to the details.

Don't ignore wise counsel

Believe in the Lord and you will be established; believe in His prophets and you will prosper. 2 Chronicles 20:20

1. How DO you make decisions?

This book shall not depart your mouth... mediate on it... and in so doing you will make your way prosperous and you will have great success. Joshua 1:8

Key clues and contributors to decision making:

1. Word of God

2. Voice of God

3. Prophets

4. Wise and godly counsel

5. Witness of trusted counsellors ("...this is the right thing to do...")

6. Submitting the decision to the Lord and His timing... surrender and yieldness

7. Inner knowing/conviction

8. Peace

ACTION: TEST it. It's only in stepping out that you find out if the ground is stable. Faith is only faith when action is involved. Do something small to move towards what you believe is the right decision and pay attention to the results.

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This is the foundation to what is central in all my life and what we are building with Heaven in Business.

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Fires, floods, pandemics, politics...people - with all the craziness it sure doesn't feel like Heaven in Business to me! There is pressure coming on all sides and everywhere we turn we are faced with questions that seem to have difficult if not impossible answers. What do we do in moments of history like we are in now?

Although we may feel pressure I'm reminded of Hebrews 10:38:

"But we aren’t the sort of people who timidly draw back and end up being destroyed. We’re the sort of people who have faith so that our whole beings are preserved."

We may not know each other personally but one thing I do know - the marketplace does not attract the timid or the weak. Just by choosing to engage in business I know that God has placed a strength and determination inside of you that, when you choose to operate in His strength, reminds you that you are the "sort of person" who relentlessly perseveres laying hold of all that God has in store for you!

This week we want to offer you practical and encouraging tools to equip you to face any challenge you may face. We are offering Andy's latest book FREE to you (you only pay for shipping). Throughout the book you will find practical tools to keep you engaged, thriving, and moving forward. To access this offer please click here! (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/findinghopebook)

Download the notes for this session by clicking here.

Fires, floods, pandemics, politics...sounds like the PERFECT opportunity for Heaven to invade earth and for you to experience Heaven in your Business!!

Your were born for this!

Andy & Janine Mason, Michelle Raftery and your Heaven in Business Team

For more see Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

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This year I have been leaning into learning about the Kingdom of God. Reading books like The Unshakeable Kingdom and the Unchanging Person by E.Stanley Jones and The Cosmic Initiative by Jack Taylor. Plus interviewing the likes of Bill Johnson and Patrice Tsague and Shae Bynes and more...

I've also been reading through the book of Matthew (in the bible) looking at how much Jesus focused on the crowd compared to what he did with the disciples.

Here's a couple things Ive learned and what this means for you if you are serious about impacting the world for generations to come.

1. Prayer and worship is not enough - engage in the SYSTEMS of society

2. Transformation is an inside job - learn from Iraq, Afghanistan...

3. The crowd is fickle... like social media and politics... don't trust them

4. In our desire to multiply transformation we have bastardized the discipleship process  5. The way forward is ONE by ONE - FOLLOW ME AND I WILL MAKE YOU

5. Your greatest return is your kids... then your key team...

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Last week Janine and I dropped our second daughter to Cornell University. It was an experience! Here's some of what I learned and what I pray will help you also - whether you have children or not!

• Generosity always wins

• A 2.5 star is a 2.5 star regardless of photo's

• It's vanity to work long and late

• Play and rest are a litmus test of a healthy life

Have a wonderful week and don't hesitate to send me any questions or comments to andy@authentic-solutions.com

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THIS IS A TIMELY MESSAGE There are a few challenges around all of us right now. Individually. Corporately. Nationally. Globally. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder how on earth we can get through it... OR we can get God's perspective and realize that we were born for this. This episode (used with personal permission from Bill Johnson), you will be equipped how to see from God's perspective, regardless of what you are facing, and turn your problems into the very nutrients that will sustain you. Problem? NO PROBLEM!

For more on Bill Johnson - see BJM.org. 

Bill and his wife Beni are the senior leaders of Bethel Church in Redding, California. Together, they serve a growing number of churches worldwide that are passionate for revival and seeing God’s kingdom established on earth. Bill travels extensively around the world teaching and equipping people to live a supernatural lifestyle.

This message was originally recorded by Bethel Media - you can watch or listen anytime here.

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Last week I got to run along the border between USA and Mexico. As I was running I had an epiphany about all the times I have prayed for God to give me favor and increase. This was the FIRST time I explored the physical borders, or limitations, of the country I live in. What about the things I prayed increase for? Have I tested or explored my 'borders' in business, in community, in connections? What about you?

Have you ever prayed "God increase my territory" (1 Chronicles 4:9-10) or "Enlarge the place of my dwelling" (Isaiah 54:2)? How would you know that God has answered your

This episode I outline what stops us from increasing and what we can do about it to partner with God and grow in faith, grow in family and grow in business!

NOTE: this was recorded for our Heaven in Business membership community as part of our weekly focused content. We send this out with a Monday motivational minute and access to a live online strategic and tactical prayer meeting every Wednesday that includes business people from around the world. And then there's the library of over 100 video's to help you grow in identity, grow in business and grow in influence. Access all this for $30/mth or $300 for the entire year. Sign up at HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial to feed yourself for INCREASE!

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Life seems to be awfully messy at the moment. Uncertainty was always around us but right now it's up front and personal. Everywhere I turn friends, clients and acquaintances are surrounded by upheaval. Yet, every time I have a conversation beyond the surface, it quickly becomes apparent that MOST of the 'upheaval' is a DISTRACTION. It may be an emotionally charged distraction, but it's still a distraction. It may be very real and very painful, but it's still a distraction. What about you?

Are you spending your time on what is most important or are you endlessly feeding on things you have no control over?

Are you making intentional steps towards what you were born for, or are you quickly turned aside by every else's hot-topic?

Are you dreaming with God and taking action, or are you distracted?

Good news is, regardless of where you find yourself, today is a great day to choose to dream again and choose to take intentional action towards those dreams.

I highly recommend Dream Big or Love Does by Bob Goff.

Grab a copy of Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life - your guide to discover and take action.

Download a dream list and get started!

Download the Personal Discovery Chart here.

And don't hesitate to send me questions, comments or suggestions on andy@authentic-solutions.com

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This week we took the family to San Diego for vacation. We had been saving up over 12 months and so grateful to be together before some of them head off for college. What about you? What does family vacation look like? What tips and tricks have you leaned to make the most of your time together? Let me know any questions you may have andy@authentic-solutions.com. I promise to respond… when I get back from vacation!

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Have you had someone you know and respect tell you you can't do something that is on your heart to do? What did you do? Shrink back and listen to the advice? Push back and discredit their advice and do it anyway? What about where you have told YOURSELF "you can't do that...."

I used to think that the people who told me I couldn't do something that was significant or meaningful, were against me. I have learned that the contrary or opposing advice is actually a GIFT. It was NECESSARY to have people tell me I couldn't do it... or that it would be difficult... or wouldn't work. Why? Because it provided the early test of intestinal fortitude NECESSARY to push forward and do what was in my heart to do.

• If they had been all positive I could have deferred to, or relied on them rather than growing as a leader.
• If they had been all positive I wouldn't have had the strength built to overcome other challenges and opposition as it arose.
• If they had been all positive I wouldn't have completed further due diligence or heart checking NECESSARY to find an internal strength to push forward.

So where have you been given a "You can't do that."

Did you listen and need to recheck your decision so that you have no regrets?

Did you ignore them and do it anyway but need to readjust your attitude toward them - they are not your enemy but actually a gift to help you succeed? 

Do you need to adjust perspective and dig in and simply do the very thing that yourself or others say can't be done... because you were BORN FOR THIS!

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How do you grow in power? I asked this question of my friend, Tracy Evans. She is a Stanford University Medical School trained Physician Assistant. Her answer adjusted my perspective completely. I trust it will do the same for you.

Before entering the mission field, Tracy served in the U.S. Army and overseas as a Medical Officer for embassies and the Peace Corps. Through these credentials, Tracy has secured long-term resident visas in Muslim and Communist countries typically closed to missionaries. In country, she builds medical clinics and schools which in turn facilitate evangelism, discipleship and church planting. Tracy is now ministering in Mozambique, Africa. During the last 17 years in Africa, her team has planted 22 churches and provided daily nutrition and life-saving medical care for more than 7,000 at-risk orphaned babies, many with AIDS. iReachAfrica has also hosted leadership seminars for government officials and pastoral training, while building and operating schools for children, a vocational training center for adults, literacy programs and a prison ministry. The goal is bring all of Mozambique to Jesus Christ by pioneering and developing communities of Christian disciples.

Find out more about Tracy at iReachAfrica.org. My family has personally supported her work for years and I encourage you to do the same if you want your donation dollars to be FRUITFUL! If you listen to this and sense a stirring to GO, then reach out to her via the website or email info@iReachAfrica.org.

The story of Tracy's life (so far!) is published as Outrageous Courage. Grab a copy for yourself and another to give away. Available on Bethel Store or Amazon

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The last 12months have been like a global leadership school. So how did you score? What did you learn? Even better, did you actually learn what you had the opportunity to learn (or do you need a do-over)?

Here's three of the most significant lessons that I learned, am applying, and feel super grateful to have learned! (Download the notes here)

This session was recorded at the most recent Heaven in Business conference. You can see upcoming events on HeaveninBusiness.com/events or join us online at Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

1. The Voice of God is what leads, sustains, guides... more than the business plan, best practice or profitability analysis.

2. Vision HE is leading contrasted with my version of vision that confuses activity for productivity, people pleasing for purpose and doing good for being fruitful.

3. The volume of wise counsel

What about you?  * Are you making room to hear the voice of God? * Where have you gotten 1% off and need to realign? What will you align to? * Whose volume do you need to turn down? Whose volume do you need to turn up? Whose volume do you need to turn off?

Send me your questions or comments andy@authentic-solutions.com

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Welcome to podcast number 100! That's one podcast every single week for almost two years. I'm probably the one that has grown the most!!! Please take a moment to post a review or send me some feedback or questions you would love me to engage over.... andy@authentic-solutions.com.

This episode comes at a time when I am intentionally stepping into what the last three decades have prepared me for. So here's some keys I've learned about the journey of stepping into your calling.

1. Everyone has a calling.

You were born for significance. God has a plan for you and it is good AND He prepared works ahead of time for you to step into. That may be a message you carry or a solution to a problem or a service to a person... Jeremiah is famous for quoting that God has plans for you and they are GOOD. Paul prayed that you would know the hope of your calling. Paul's own calling was a revelatory message that the gospel wasn't just for the Jews but for the gentiles also.

1. Your calling develops and refines over time.

It's important to note that even Jesus, the Son of God, grew in favor with man and in favor with God. Likewise us. What you do today with what is in our hand and with the people and circumstances that surround you is preparing and shaping (or pausing) your progress in purpose and calling.

1. Knowing the season helps navigate the process well.

Check out Tony Stoltzfus book "The Calling Journey." In it he presents practical research of a great number of biblical and current leaders and how the process to the fullness of their calling developed through a consistent number of internal and external seasons. He lists the key learning in each season knowing that in a season where God is working internal character in you, the quicker you lean in and learn, the easy(er) it is... compared to avoiding dealing with what you need to work on.

1. My journey to today and some practical application for you

I'm 47 years old today and can identify some distinct seasons of preparation. Right now I am stepping into a zone where my passion (what I love to do) and my purpose (what I'm called to do) and my proficiency (what I'm good at doing) combine with profit (what I get paid to do).

1. Your turn

Make three lists:

A The things you love to do - passion

B The things you are really good at - proficient

C The thing(s) you sense you are called to do - purpose

D The things you can get paid to do - profit

Where is there an overlap? How could you move towards better aligning profit with purpose or improving proficiency so that you can get paid for what you love to do?

I recommend doing this with a friend or mentor who can also give you some perspective as you move onwards in the journey of your calling.

Another great book to help you on your way is Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life, written by my wife, Janine and I a few years ago. It's written in such a way to be a practical life-coach for you as you discover your purpose and live out who you were born to be!

Until next time!

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Lately Ive become aware of how much I avoid telling 100% truth, particularly in regard to giving feedback. 80% is easy. It's the final 20% that is awkward, uncomfortable, sometimes embarrassing. If I focus on 'me' then I will simply avoid it. What if I'm wrong? What if I lose relationship? What if you don't respond well to me?

Wrong. If you HAVE relationship you will speak truth... 100%.

What I've learned (thanks Ford Taylor and Relactional leadership) is that IF I am thinking about YOU then I will speak truth. If I love YOU as I love myself (or even more if I love how Christ loved me) I will speak 100% truth.

Here's what's fascinating. I was talking with an ex Army Ranger. He would literally take a bullet for his team member. But when we got talking about speaking 100% truth he didn't hesitate to say there is no way he would do that. What???

=> it is EASIER to lay our physical lives down than it is to lay our emotional, relational lives down for others.

WOW.

What did Jesus do? All of it. 100%. Physical and relational and emotional. He laid it all down and calls us to do the same.

So will you? Perhaps you need more convincing? Simply read Ephesians. The goal is to build one another up into the fullness of life in God - each one of us connected and contributing. Not blown around by every wind of doctrine.

How do we do that?

"...but speaking the truth in love..." Ephesians 4:15

"...putting away lying, "Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor for we are members of one another." " Ephesians 4:25

"Stand therefore having girded your waist with truth." Ephesians 6:14

What's the point? 1. I need you to speak truth to me so that I have a strong inner core and am not tossed around by all sorts of weird doctrine... so that I grow up mature, connected and contributing.

1. I need to speak truth and I do it by focussing on YOU, not on how it makes me feel. I love you fearlessly so I will say something.

2. The last 20% of truth is the most uncomfortable AND the most powerful and transformative. (It is also the most profitable!)

3. Wise people heed instruction/correction/feedback. Foolish people...

4. Knowing HOW to speak truth is really helpful. Ford teaches a simple phrase:

"This may be just me and perhaps it doesn't matter... can I give you some feedback?"

So... how much do you truly love people? If you want more, grab a copy of Ford's book Relactional Leadership or listen to his podcast Ford Taylor Talks.

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Last week I got to tour Gettysburg PA where a decisive battle was fought during the American Civil war, 1863. We had the privilege of a tour guide who gave us detailed information about different aspects of the battle and what happened afterwards. in this podcast I highlight two lessons I learned:

1. You are more significant than you realized

2. Will you build a monument or name to yourself or will you seek the wellbeing of others

For more on Heaven in Business or Andy Mason see HeaveninBusiness.com or Authentic-Solutions.com

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Greetings from Abbeville, South Carolina where I am currently traveling. This is a special episode where I got to interview the artist of a song that greatly impacted me and became the theme for navigating 2020 - The Voice of God by Dante Bowe. Listen as I interview Dante about his journey in music and encountering Jesus and the unique happenings behind the song itself.

Here's the link to watch the interview and join us Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

And here's the song on youtube where you can add to the 4.2M views so far...

Follow Dante and his music HERE - DanteBowe.com

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Here's today's process navigating decision making in midst of increasing travel flexibility and demands, different expectations of 'back to normal' vs. new alignment and the ongoing saga of politics and pandemic 2020. What am I focussing on and how am I deciding?

1. There will always be uncertainty and things outside your control.

2. There will always be people distracted by the things outside their control, who want you to be as upset and distracted as they are.

3. None of either of the above is fruitful or rewarding.

4. As opportunities open up, you need to know what and how you will choose where to invest your time and energy. What will be your priorities? It's easy when you have limited options. As options increase, you need to know what you will say 'yes' to and what you will say 'no' to. You must know what 'success' is to you.

5. It's time NOW to redo your priorities. So how do you do that?

A) Big rocks exercise - listen here (Episode 45) and download the worksheet

B) VPMOSA - see Ford Taylor's book Relactional Leadership page 159 for details.

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We just completed our first in-person conference in over 12 months. The theme was how to lead like Christ in the midst of uncertainty. Our keynote speakers were Kris Vallotton, Shae Bynes, Ford Taylor and Andy Mason. Here's a summary of learning...

Day 1 - POSITIONED - testimony of the African Violet following the sun Voice | Vision | Volume

You were born for this! Electricians don't complain about broken wires. Plumbers don't complain about broken pipes. Doctors don't complain about sick people. YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD... don't complain if it's dark... S H I N E !

Framework vs. Blueprint. The framework is the generic system or structure. The blueprint is specific to you. Don't copy other people's blueprint - you have to find that for yourself.

Grace vs. Grind - See Shae Byne's book Grace Over Grind: How Grace will take your business where grinding can't.

VPMOSA - Vision | Purpose | Mission | Objectives | Strategy | Action. Find out more in Ford Taylors book Relactional Leadership or checkout his on-demand training

Day 2 - Hope that results in Action You’re dead – Christ lives in you - It is written. No more excuses. You can heal. You can heal. You can do miracles. These sign's follow them that believe...

Host | Hear | Heal

6-Step apology from Ford Taylors book or training. This is what I did... I was wrong. I am sorry/apologize. Will you, or when you can, will you forgive me? I give you permission to hold me accountable to not do this again. Is there anything else I need to apologize for?

Wisdom: Source vs. Resource. If I treat the resource as the source I may lose both. God is the Source. He chooses to give us what we need through people (or books or...). As you are listening or reading, ask Holy Spirit what He is saying specifically to you through this resource.

Love looks like… Aware & Engaged. Who can you reach out to hear their story to grow in awareness of people different to you?

Day 3: It's You - Own it! Host | Hear | Heal - businesses came in to the confernece and the attendees were activated to pray for them. The testimonies were life-changing!

Love looks like… communication

Marriage wisdom

Culture: Head to Paper to People

Follow the Voice

If you want more, check out Authentic-Solutions.com or join us weekly via HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

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This is an interview I did with Sasha Caridia (Emergency Care Practitioner from UK) and Jared Balke (Off Site Property Manager from California). For the full video see HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

Jesus went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil. Acts 10:38

He said that everyone who believes would do the same. Mark 16: 17, 18

Keys:

1. Cultivate a personal, private relationship with Jesus. His Word, His Ways. Psalm 91. Talk to Him about what you want to see in regard to healing in your workplace. Ask Him what His heart is for your workplace.

2. Cultivate the heart of Jesus for people. You cannot control whether someone get's healed; you can determine whether they feel loved.

3. Pray for people. Ask permission. Lay hands on the sick. Keep it simple; only believe. It's not about what you feel or don't feel; it's about who Jesus is and what He said is true: "Lay hands on the sick and they will recover." (Mark 16:17)

4. Persevere. If you haven't at least prayed for 200 people then simply keep praying for people! The director of a local prayer centered Healing Rooms said "I have prayed for more people who haven't been healed, than you have prayed for people." So... just do it; and do it with love.

Watch this full video on HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial and send us your testimonies to HiBTestimony.com

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I LOVED this interview unpacking how to identify, qualify, invite and challenge people into powerful relationships that are guaranteed to be fruitful. You can apply this to people you want to work with or employ, or people you want to invite into a discipleship group. Here's a quick summary:

1. Identify who you will work/walk with - in whose ears is your voice loud? Who do you have favor with? Who REALLY listens as evidenced by their follow-through?

2. Qualify - F.A.S.T acronym

Are they faithful or flaky?

Are they authentic or fake?

Will they share this or are they selfish?

Are they teachable or stubborn?

1. Invite them into a meeting where you share vision/purpose or plan. Outline what you are committing to do with/for them

2. Challenge them by looking them in the eye and asking "Are you ready to match my commitment?"

Grab a copy of Dave Buehring's book The Great Opportunity: Making Disciples of Jesus in Every Vocation

For more content like this that equips you to partner with God at work by helping you grow in identity, grow in business and grow in influence see Heaveninbusiness.com

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You were born for significance. No child dreams of being average or insignificant. The problem is many of us reduce our life to survival or a paycheck. So how do you discover what you were born for and makes you come alive? Here's some tools to help...

1. Dream list - free download here... or grab a copy of Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life

2. Personal discovery tool - free download here... or see more by PaulManwaring.com

3. Master plan - big rocks - free example download here...

4. Who | Why | Where | How

5. VPMOSA - Ford Taylor. Grab a copy of the book Relactional Leadership Pg 159-162

6. Not to do list - Kris Vallotton

If this is all overwhelming and you would like to do a course with a group or as an individual coach, contact us at Authentic-Solutions.com

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Listen as I interview our two Heaven in Business third students graduating from Bethel's School of Supernatural Ministry THIS WEEK. Congratulations Fina Oei from Indonesia and Gerna Scholte from Netherlands! I asked them...

• Why did you come to BSSM in the first place? (...and then to choose three years!)
• How did you decide to do the third year program with Heaven in Business in spite of uncertain levels of interaction (due to COVID)?
• What have you loved the most about this unusual year?
• If you could change anything about the year what would that be?
• What did you experience that you would you never want to change?
• What leadership lesson did you learn from Heaven in Business?
• What did you learn about yourself that you will do differently?

If you want to find out more about Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry click HERE (BSSM.net).

If you want to join us in-person at the Heaven in Business upcoming conference click HERE (HeaveninBusiness.com).

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Here's how the stories of your life shape the culture you live in. YOU set yourself up to succeed (or fail) by the narratives that you hold and repeat. Shared with permission from Bill Johnson, Bethel Church, Redding, CA.

You can find out more about Heaven in Business and the online training platform at HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

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Here's five key topics that I am learning about right now that are affecting how I view the world and what I am engaged in. 

1. The kingdom of God gives power over systems => poverty, injustice, corruption PLUS work or family systems that undermine people, profit and planet. True kingdom centered systems cause ALL THINGS to flourish. If I don't honor the diversity of gifts I will never access the benefits of that person eg. the church that honors the prophet but not the accountant will always wrestle with inadequate financial systems.

2. Goodness and MERCY follow me. I need it!

3. The challenge is not the absence of good ideas but the absence of execution => book 4 Disciplines of Execution

4. Forgiveness - SELF-forgiveness unlocks from past failures and is imperative to move forward healthy.

5. Community and belonging do NOT come from a membership to an institution (religious or otherwise) but from authentic connection with people.

I am part of a global kingdom community that is highly connected, celebrating one another and collaborating for increase. This is a joy!

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I got caught believing head-trash. My family were making some comments and what I heard got me beating on myself... only what was in my head was NOT what they had said. Here's what happened as my wife asked me some powerful questions and Jesus walked me through getting my head sorted out and my heart coming alive again.

Listen if you want to know what God thinks of your 'fatal flaws' and what to do about it (or them!). You may be surprised. 

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Are you too busy to read/listen? I'm too busy NOT to read and listen!!! I believe leaders are learners and will take any and every opportunity to grow. However, it's like food: if you don't choose what you will eat, you end up eating trash fast food and eventually start looking like it also! If you don't intentionally feed yourself with learning materials you will consume what someone else wants you to feed on - social media, news etc etc.

I like to listen to audiobooks and, more recently, podcasts. If I find a podcast or audiobook that is REALLY good, I buy the physical copy to keep. If I find a book REALLY REALLY good I will buy extra copies to give away. In this session I will unpack WHAT I'm listening to/reading, WHY I am listening to that specifically, HOW I listen and what I'm learning. My goal is to stir you up to do the same.

1. WHY I listen/read I want to grow. There's so much I don't know. I want to stay sharp. I want to learn from people who have gone before me. Not learning is simply arrogance and sets you up for stupid mistakes because we don't learn from the mistakes and wisdom of those who have gone before us.

2. HOW I listen/read I'm busy. I am married to my best friend and have four teenage children plus three dogs, chickens and ducks. I lead business people all over the world and have friends and family spread everywhere. I also have a 3 acre property whose landscape was destroyed by fire in 2018 and is still being restored. Needless to say I have every reason to be 'busy.' OR I CAN GET CREATIVE.

3. I read a couple pages of a physical book before I go to sleep every night

4. I read a few pages on Saturday mornings before I start on chores
5. I snatch a few pages here and there during the week
6. I listen to audiobooks/bible if I wake in the night (on a timer as I will fall back to sleep)
7. I listen to audio/podcast as I do chores, drive in/out of town and do exercise

The point is this - there is ALWAYS TIME for what is most important.

1. WHAT I am listening to/reading at present The themes I sense Lord speaking to me about for this year are leadership and the Kingdom of God. So I have intentionally sought out books/resources that feed that. I also get recommendations from friends all the time and if one or more of these resonate with me I will grab a copy.

Current or just finished:

Jack Taylor - The Cosmic Initiative

E. Stanley Jones - The Unshakeable Kingdom and the Unchanging Person Myles Monroe - Gods Big Idea. Rediscovering the kingdom. Applying the kingdom RT Kendall - The Lords Prayer Ford Taylor. Relactional leadership (Ive been giving away LOTS of copies of this one)

Alisa Childers. Another Gospel (I've been giving away copies of this one) Eliyahu Goldratt. The Goal. Theory of constraints Patrice Tsague. Biblical Entrepreneurship

Current Podcasts God is not a Theory (Ken Fish) Alisa Childers Podcast Ford Taylor Talks

What book or podcast are you listening to at the moment that you think EVERYONE should be listening to also?

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In this podcast I take you 'behind the curtain' as I interview my wife, Janine, on how she leads and makes decisions in the midst of uncertainty.

I referred to a blog - My Best Coach in which I tell a story about the power of Janine's insightful questions.

Here's the questions that we covered:

• What is your leadership role/responsibility
• What has been the hardest decision recently you have had to make?
• How did you make it?
• Why do you involve your children (younger or 'lesser' stakeholders) in your decision making?
• How do you navigate a visionary leader who is not receiving feedback?
• How would you advise the quieter member of a partnership when their feedback is not being heard?
• How do you keep your heart humble and tender in the midst of painful leadership decisions?

If you are interested in working with Janine then fill in an application for a free exploratory conversation.

Find out more about Janine Mason: Janine has a background in people development, adult training and project management, for both non‐profit and profit‐ based organizations. In addition to being a wonderful mother to four children, Janine is known for her perceptive questions that quickly help clients get to the heart of the matter and develop practical and holistic approaches for moving forward.

Janine co-authored the book Kingdom Tools For Teaching: Practical Tools for Real Classrooms. She is also the author of Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life, also available as a DVD workshop (Dream Journey). For more on Janine see Authentic-Solutions.com

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What is God up to in the offices of corporate America today? Is it doom and gloom or is the Kingdom advancing and people are jumping in? This interview is with Brandon Haire, VP of Franchise Development for a $2.3Bn global company. He works in their corporate offices in Waco, Texas and has personally seen over 120 salvations in this office alone plus another 120 franchise owners surrendering their life to Christ.

To be clear.... this is not a christian company, nor does it have christian policies or promotions. This is simply the fruit of one employee who joined with another and the two of them started to pray. The rest is history.

Enjoy the podcast and grab a copy of Brandon's book The Business Revival on Amazon.

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In this podcast I interview a well known and seasoned leader (John Ramstead of Beyond Influence and author of On Purpose, With Purpose ) on how to lead and make decisions in the midst of uncertainty.

If you haven't done so already, check out our upcoming leadership workshop and conference Heaveninbusiness.com/events.

Here's the questions that we covered:

• What is your leadership role/responsibility
• What has been the hardest decision recently you have had to make?
• How did you make it?
• What do you do when there is great uncertainty, no perfect answer, things you need to decide, and God is silent about specifics?
• Have you gotten decisions wrong? How do you lead knowing you won’t be right all the time and people/outcomes can be brutal?

Find out more about Heaven in Business membership at HeaveninBusiness.com/events.

Find out more about John Ramstead: John Ramstead has been married for 28 years to his best friend and together they have three incredible boys. It has been ten years since a near fatal accident changed the trajectory of his life. Without the incredible support of God, his family and amazing friends he wouldn’t be the person he is today.

As John navigated 25 surgeries and almost two years of hospital recovery, he sought God's direction what was next. This led him to a new calling: to take the life God gave him and pour it into other leaders to equip and inspire them to work in His Kingdom. This led to the Eternal Leadership Podcast and the soon to launch book On Purpose, With Purpose.

John's twenty-five years as a Navy fighter pilot, entrepreneur, Fortune 500 management team member and board chair has led him to serve others towards extraordinary lives.

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In this podcast I answer the same questions I asked three different guests the last three sessions. This is all around how I lead and make decisions in the midst of uncertainty.

Make sure you make the most of some of this learning by joining us at the Leadership Transformation Workshop online with Ford Taylor, March 25-26. Find out more here.

Here's the questions: 1. What is your leadership role/responsibility?

I am a husband and father of four young adults.

I lead Heaven in Business - a ministry that operates like a business but under the non-profit ownership structure of a church. I am responsible to lead the vision and team, generate the revenue, steward the resources... plus I am part of a larger organization... plus that organization has influence globally. We help you partner with God at work and engage in the wellbeing of the city you serve. We do that through conferences, retreats and a membership platform.

In addition I lead Authentic Solutions which is a business I started last year to help you and your business gain clarity for what's next and the courage to do it - through courses, coaching and mastermind groups.

1. What has been the hardest decision recently you have had to make?

A) Stay home. No travel. Working from home. We chose as a family to follow the CDC guidelines and only do essential meetings in person. This is primarily to protect the wellbeing of one of my children who has vulnerable health and also what we believed was most responsible as a community leader.

B) Let go staff. We have dropped from five employees to one. Telling someone their income is halving or ending is difficult.

C) Change/delay events that significantly affect my budget.

1. How did you make it?

Spoke to my wife and kids.

Heard from God

Did the numbers.

Prayed.

Spoke to advisor.

Spoke with staff.

Wrestled internally!

1. What do you do when there is great uncertainty, no perfect answer, things you need to decide, and God is silent about specifics?

Get alone. I love to run or hike up behind my house. When I get up a hill I can physically see further. It's the same mentally - clear's my head, helps my perspective.

Advisors (starting with my wife Janine who has been my best coach!)

Conviction. Protect your conscience above all else. Follow your conviction. Listen to that still, small voice. If you have hesitation, LISTEN.

Take little steps. What could I test? What small cuts could I make today so I don't have to make drastic cuts in a month?

Do the numbers. Budget. Analyze. Do sensitivity analysis: "What if this factor changed by 25%? What if the timing was delayed by 25%....?"

1. Have you gotten decisions wrong? How do you lead knowing you won’t be right all the time and people/outcomes can be brutal?

Delayed letting someone go. Cost them and cost me AND it cost the team.

Delayed confronting someone. Cost them and cost me. I cannot afford NOT to say something.

1. How do you overcome fear of failure or what people will say?

Ford Taylor (see Transformational Leadership Course and book Relactional Leadership) processes are helping significantly.

I've been meeting with a qualified marriage and family therapist almost weekly for the last year. That decision in hindsight was GENIUS. She has been really helpful navigating head trash, emotional upheaval and healthy boundaries.

Get used to it. Nobody is perfect. We are all doing our best.

Get more anchored in who I am in God.

1. How do you stay humble and not hard-hearted in most of adversity and/or injustice?

Forgiveness: Self AND others.

"Father forgive them for they don't know what they are doing."

Reading Word daily, reading other books - Humility by RT Kendall

Grattitude.

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In this podcast I interview a well known and seasoned leader (Ford Taylor of Transform Lead) on how to lead and make decisions in the midst of uncertainty. 

We refer to an upcoming ONLINE Leadership Transformation Workshop with Ford on March 25-26. Find out more here.

Here's the questions that we covered: * What is your leadership role/responsibility * What has been the hardest decision recently you have had to make? * How did you make it? * What do you do when there is great uncertainty, no perfect answer, things you need to decide, and God is silent about specifics? * Have you gotten decisions wrong? How do you lead knowing you won’t be right all the time and people/outcomes can be brutal? * How do you overcome fear of failure or what people will say? * How do you stay humble and not hard-hearted in most of adversity and/or injustice?

Find out more about Heaven in Business membership at HeaveninBusiness.com/events.

Find out more about Ford Taylor: Ford is the founder of Transformational Leadership, a sought-after keynote speaker, the author of Relactional Leadership and directs a charitable international effort to provide Transformational Leadership to emerging countries worldwide. Ford Taylor solves complex business issues through solution-driven leadership training that embodies the interpersonal focus, agility, adaptability, and innovation required in today’s dynamic marketplace.  

Ford continues to show leaders how to lead others and how to manage the processes, systems, and procedures around them. Ford and his wife of 37 years, Sandra, live in College Station, Texas. They are blessed with three lovely daughters, Whitney, Emily, and Quincy.

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In this podcast I interview a well known and seasoned leader (Shae Bynes of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur) on how to lead and make decisions in the midst of uncertainty.

Check out the full video and audio as part of a free 7 day membership trial with Heaven in Business here.

Here's the questions that we covered: * What is your leadership role/responsibility * What has been the hardest decision recently you have had to make? * How did you make it? * What do you do when there is great uncertainty, no perfect answer, things you need to decide, and God is silent about specifics? * Have you gotten decisions wrong? How do you lead knowing you won’t be right all the time and people/outcomes can be brutal? * How do you overcome fear of failure or what people will say? * How do you stay humble and not hard-hearted in most of adversity and/or injustice?

If you want to join us with LIVE DISCUSSION on zoom as I interview the next two speakers sign up to the Kingdom Leadership Series on HeaveninBusiness.com/events.

Find out more about Shae Bynes: Shae Bynes is a passionate storyteller, bridge builder, and strategist who ignites and equips leaders to be catalysts for transformation in their spheres of influence.

Known as “Chief Fire Igniter”, she has reached over a half million aspiring and current entrepreneurs around the globe through her devotionals, books, courses, short films, and podcasts. Her teaching and mentoring provide inspiration and practical strategies for doing business in partnership with God for greater Kingdom impact in the marketplace.

Shae co-founded the Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur movement in 2012 and her most popular book Grace Over Grind: How Grace Will Take Your Business Where Grinding Can’t is shifting the way people live, work, and engage the world around them. Whether she is sharing on platforms publicly or consulting privately, you can expect Shae to deliver an abundance of truth with love, grace, and contagious joy.

Shae holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Masters of Business Administration from the University of South Florida and University of Florida respectively.

Shae has been married to her husband Phil for 21 years and is mom to three beautiful daughters, ranging from toddler to college student. She has a healthy addiction to sunshine and water and calls the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area her home.

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In this podcast I interview a well known and seasoned leader on how to lead and make decisions in the midst of uncertainty. Make sure you listen right to the end when Kris add's an exhortation that is hugely encouraging.

Here's the questions that we covered: * What is your leadership role/responsibility * What has been the hardest decision recently you have had to make? * How did you make it? * What do you do when there is great uncertainty, no perfect answer, things you need to decide, and God is silent about specifics? * Have you gotten decisions wrong? How do you lead knowing you won’t be right all the time and people/outcomes can be brutal? * How do you overcome fear of failure or what people will say? * How do you stay humble and not hard-hearted in most of adversity and/or injustice?

If you want to join us with LIVE DISCUSSION on zoom as I interview the next two speakers sign up to the Kingdom Leadership Series on HeaveninBusiness.com/events.

Find out more about Kris Vallotton: Kris Vallotton is an author, international speaker, culture leader, and most of all, a spiritual father to this generation.

As the Senior Associate Leader of Bethel Church in Redding, California and co-founder of Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry (BSSM) and Moral Revolution, Kris has helped thousands of Believers over the last 20 years realize their identity as sons and daughters of God.

He’s a bestselling author, having written more than a dozen books and training manuals to help prepare believers for life in the kingdom.

Kris has a diverse background in business, counseling, consulting, pastoring and teaching, which gives him unique leadership insights and perspectives.

He’s a highly sought-after international speaker equipping people to successfully fulfill their divine purpose. Kris loves to both teach to the masses and advise leaders one-on-one, utilizing his experience and his prophetic gift to assist world influencers in achieving their goals. He commonly provides counsel to governmental and business leaders on practical strategies for cultural transformation. He has unique expertise in economies and building prosperous communities.

Though renowned for his writing and speaking, Kris and his wife Kathy are also successful entrepreneurs who co-owned 9 businesses in the automotive industry. Kris is the founder of the Bethel School of Technology, the Chairman of Advance Redding, and founder of Bethel Media.

Kris lives in beautiful Redding, California with his wife of 43 years, Kathy, their dog Samson, and Kathy’s horses, Dreamer and Legend.

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Recently I have had a number of conversations with friends around spiritual gifting, beliefs and behaviors. Most conversations have gone awesome. Some not so well. This has led me to thinking about spiritual gifts and how to know whether you are listening to the Spirit of God or some other spirit. Secondly, you may be listening to the Spirit of God but the deception of pride or 'idols of the heart' result in being led astray - it's not just what you say or do but HOW you do it that really matters.

So I went back to the covers... the covers of the Bible. And I had an AWESOME time seeing so clearly how Paul the apostle lays it all out.

I encourage you to read it yourself in 1 Corinthians 12. Understand that he is speaking to a group of people who previously were led astray by the worship of multiple gods/idols (who can't speak). He is wanting to introduce them to the Holy Spirit but sensitive to the fact that if they got led astray by dumb idols, how would he need to teach them to make sure they are listening to the RIGHT spirit that TALKS to us? Good question.

I read through the chapter and put Paul's guidelines into a simple flowchart of questions and responses to know that you are listening to the Spirit of God and how to keep from going astray.

"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant... carried away..." 1 Corinthians 12: 1, 2

Gift/Spirit check: These first two questions are like banks of the river - boundaries to know you are listening to the Holy Spirit and not some other spirit masquerading as the Spirit of Truth.

1. Profaning the Name of Jesus?

Does this gift/person/spirit contradict or go against the word, ways, nature or name of Jesus Christ?

Yes? => this is NOT the Holy Spirit.

No? => great! Proceed to question 2

1. Acknowledgement of Jesus Christ as Lord?

Does this gift/person/spirit acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord Yahweh - Lord of ALL?

No? => this is NOT the Holy Spirit.

Yes? => great! Proceed to question 3.

This sounds kind of obvious but there are plenty of people who love Jesus and acknowledge him as a son of God or a prophet, but DON'T acknowledge Him AS God.

The next questions clarify whether someone may be operating in a gift from the Holy Spirit but have gone astray due to flaws in character or maturity. An example is James and John, the disciples of Jesus, who wanted to call down fire to burn a city that rejected Jesus. Jesus corrected them saying, "...you don't know what MANNER of spirit you are of." (See Luke 9:55). In other words, their heart desired good for Jesus but the way they wanted to go about it was not according to His character or nature. You could say they had zeal without knowledge or were being hasty and missing Jesus WAY of operating (see also Proverbs 19:2).

Note - Jesus didn't cut them off for their zeal; he adjusted their zeal to align with His nature.

1. Acknowledge different gifts but same Spirit?

Does the person acknowledge Jesus Christ as the source of all gifts and honor other gifts/service/ways of working? Contrast this with people who elevate their status based on a certain gifting resulting in hierarchy or division.

No? => they have gone astray (character, maturity, pride...)

Yes? => awesome, proceed to next question.

1. Use the gift for the benefit of others?

Does this person use their gifting to help/profit/add to the common good (see 1 Cor 12:7, 25)?

No? => Self-seeking? Divisive? Isolating? Inciting evil? => gone astray

Yes? => Awesome!

Ok - this should be a great self-check. But what do you do if you or someone you know is listening to a different spirit or has gone astray? First, humble yourself knowing that it's only by the grace of God that we ALL don't go astray.... remember where you came from! (See 1 Cor 12:12 and Gal 6:1-5).

A) Are they a fellow believer?

IF you have relationship then you need to say something. Matthew 18 lays out a really good process that is healthy and helpful and done with the intention of restoring connection. IF you love them you will say something. Silence is assent. If you don't have the confidence or relationship to say something at least say "I'm not sure I agree with that, I'll need to think about it."

B) Are they a non-believer?

Pray. Stay connected, because YOU are the salt and light of the world. BUT be as innocent as a dove and as shrewd as a snake (see Matthew 10:16). Check out what 'being as shrewd as a snake' means. Don't be deceived. Keep your eyes open. Do your due diligence. Speak up as you are led.

If you want more on this topic I recommend Ken Fish and his podcast God is Not a Theory. Also, Mike Connell is a renowned bible teacher and has a wide range of free resources that are brilliant. Click here for more.

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Nobody likes to find that they have acted foolishly and have to unravel a mess. Truth is, we ALL have done things, either ignorantly or intentionally, that have turned out to be simply wrong. So, is there a way to foolproof your life, your marriage, your business?

YES THERE IS!!!

To be clear, this is NOT about avoiding making mistakes. If you don't want to make any mistakes you should never start a business, or play a sport, or get married, or try something new.....

Mistakes are part of life and learning and curiosity... which lead to growth. On the other hand, stubbornly holding onto mistakes, or negative beliefs, or toxic situations, are what becomes foolish. (Yep, I've done that!) So how do you foolproof yourself? How do you set up bumpers or boundaries to ensure you don't wake up a year from now and realize you have been feeding stupid?

Humility. Sounds easy, but is a lifetime choice and practiced behavior. Here are 15 attributes of humility from Kris Vallotton (recorded originally at Bethel Church in March 2020).

15 Attributes of Humility 1. You pray.

Prayer is an act of humility, acknowledging your Creator and seeking His wisdom and help.

Prayerlessness is the ultimate arrogance - Kris Vallotton

1. You are influence-able

2. You can be corrected without defending yourself

The thing about blindspots is that you can't see them! That's why you need people around you that you trust to help you see what you can't.

1. You rejoice when others are celebrated

Anyone can do this when someone excels at something that is not your passion. Humility celebrates others even when they are succeeding in the very area that you want to stand out.

1. There is no job too small for you

2. You don't always have to be right

3. You naturally seek advice from other people

Pride is being the smartest person in the room.

1. You are teachable

Leaders are learners; lifetime learners. You are NEVER too old, experienced, rich, professional, accomplished... to LEARN.

1. You freely admit your flaws, mistakes and failures

Authenticity is the new normal. This requires humility because it is vulnerability that leads to trust.

1. You live to help others succeed

Your true measure of success is how many other's succeed because of your service.

1. You are not easily offended

If you cannot forgive and let go, you will eventually find yourself living in arrogance.

1. You are thankful

Thankfulness inoculates you against arrogance and pride.

1. You don't live entitled

Nobody owes you anything. Actually, your life today is a result of someone else's sacrifice of freedom or finance or hard work or innovation.

1. You are quick to forgive

2. You are confident in who you are and content in who you are not

Which attribute do you feel stirred that you need to pay attention to right now?

NOTE: we posted the video of this as this weeks focussed content for the Heaven in Business community. Join us Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

----more----

Kris Vallotton is the Senior Associate Leader of Bethel Church and cofounder of Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry (BSSM). Kris travels internationally training and equipping people to successfully fulfill their divine purpose. He’s a bestselling author, having written more than a dozen books and training manuals to help prepare believers for life in the kingdom. He has a diverse background in business, counseling, consulting, pastoring and teaching, which gives him unique leadership insights and perspectives. Kris has a passion to use his experience and his prophetic gift to assist world leaders in achieving their goals and accomplishing their mission. He’s the author of the popular blog, Kris Vallotton: Raw, Real & Relevant.

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What does a follower of Jesus, in business, do when the going gets really difficult? Do you shrink back and look for option 'b'? Do you dig deep and declare "I was BORN FOR THIS?"

In this episode (recorded while my family and I were displaced as a result of a wildfire) I talk through what I learned from observing others and what I was personally convicted over.

1. Disaster and difficulty are a gift to cut through all the double-mindedness and force us to choose what we will do. Stay or leave? Invest or escape? Show up or hide out? No more luke-warmness.

2. There is always an option. Our friend was in the city when a second wildfire started leaving his family trapped behind the road block without a vehicle. What could he do?

What would you do? We tried contacting first responders I knew, but that didn't help. We tried looking at alternative roads, but that didn't help. Then we took another look at the map...

1. As a follower of Jesus, you are a citizen of Heaven. You are not of this world! BUT that doesn't mean your earthly citizenship is irrelevant. It is the opposite - Your earthly citizenship got UPGRADED BECAUSE of your citizenship in Heaven. You are a dual citizen. AND the citizenship of Heaven gives you access to resources that are desperately needed here on earth.

So how well are you living as a citizen? How well are you representing the Kingdom of God in your business or city or family?

What will you do about that?

Join the Heaven in Business community in February for the Kingdom Leadership Series - FREE - click here for more information.

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Reflecting this week in the midst of national and global uncertainty. Ive walked through lots of situations that didn't look good. Actually, when your 16 year old daughter is writhing on the floor in pain and silently screaming, it IS TERRIBLE. But through all of the ups and downs and uncertainty and pain... we have ALWAYS come out stronger. Not just some token, emotional benefit, but stronger physically, financially, emotionally, spiritually. HOW? Good question. Here's some stories of what happened, what we did and how through it all, He has strengthened our soul....

1. Childs health disaster. Two years. Hospitals in Redding, Sacramento and a two month family separation in New Zealand. Out of it He has strengthened our soul. Check out Hannah's poetry on Amazon: Imagine This - From Pain to Possibility

2. House delay and disappointment. Years! Then when we found the house our funding disappeared. Yet through it all He has strengthened my soul.

3. Wildfire disaster. Six weeks after moving into the home a wildfire devastated over 200,000 acres including 270 degrees around our house. (It destroyed houses around us). Thanks to fire crews our house was saved but the landscaping and smoke damage was heart breaking. But through it all He has strengthened my soul!

In all of this God has been faithful to redeem, restore, replenish, renew. We are living in a dream home (with a dream fridge!) and a financial situation that has gone from impossible to possible. My daughter's health remains a challenge but she is stronger relationally, emotionally, mentally and spiritually to the point of pursuing leadership roles in youth work.

Through it all He has strengthened my soul. It's not a secret. It's not easy. It is an invitation. What will you choose to do? You can focus on the loss, the pain, the difficulty... OR you can lean into Him, spill out your heart and frustration and find a strength that you never knew possible.

Read Psalm 13 - see TPT version below.

Grab a copy of Finding Hope in Crazy Times: Daily stories of hearing God and get the audio book for free (link inside ebook or print copy).

Prayer Turns Depression into Delight[a]

13 For the Pure and Shining One, by King David 1 I’m hurting, Lord—will you forget me forever?[b] How much longer, Lord? Will you look the other way when I’m in need?[c] 2 How much longer must I cling to this constant grief? I’ve endured this shaking of my soul. So how much longer will my enemy have the upper hand? It’s been long enough! 3 Take a good look at me, God, and answer me! Breathe your life into my spirit. Bring light to my eyes in this pitch-black darkness or I will sleep the sleep of death. 4 Don’t let my enemy proclaim, “I’ve prevailed over him.” For all my adversaries will celebrate when I fall. 5 Lord, I have always trusted in your kindness, so answer me. I will yet celebrate with passion and joy when your salvation[d] lifts me up. 6 I will sing my song of joy to you, the Most High, for in all of this you have strengthened my soul. My enemies say that I have no Savior, but I know that I have one in you!

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Here's what I learned through last years influence on my life and what I am hearing and focussed on for this year. Spoiler alert - it's all ridiculously good although the process wasn't comfortable. Bottom line is, I am SUPER GRATEFUL for the pain of last year that has pruned, refined and refocused my life to what I believe is setting me up to succeed for decades to come. In business. In family. In faith. I trust this helps you also.

A) My most significant learning from 2020:

At the start of the year I heard God say it would be the year of 'multiplication.' What unfolded was certainly not what I expected. However, as I reflect on the outcomes, I have multiplied in character, my walk with God, my awareness of family, my influence, my business... OR I have been positioned to multiply.

What did I learn in the process?

1. Grow according to your vision, not according to your people

2. Follow the Voice of Jesus for everything - Matthew 4:4

3. Seek humility more than wisdom

4. Get professional help now

5. Protect/create intentional connection - take the initiative

6. Value/be kind to yourself

7. Find and protect doing what restores your soul

8. Most of the things in your life are just things

B) My focus for 2021:

For this year I have two primary themes. 1. Kingdom over everything and 2. Leadership. I will unpack these and talk about what I'm practically doing in each.

1. Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all things will be provided for

This is the scripture in Matthew 6:33 and I believe this will actually be my focus for the rest of my life! What became apparent in 2020 was how we have been seeking many different kingdoms first. The kingdom of America and it's ideals.... the kingdom of church.... the kingdom of my message, my business, my rights, my.....

The second aspect of this is not simply seeking first the Kingdom of God but ALSO seeking it HIS WAY (His righteousness). It is possible to seek the values of the Kingdom of God according to your own righteousness - your own way.

"If the devil can't succeed at changing your values, he will entice you to overplay your values so that you get out of the spirit of Christ." In other words, you may have a Kingdom value of the sanctity of all life including the unborn child. This value overplayed could look like abusing pro abortionists or in extreme, violence enacted against an abortion clinic.

1. LEAD.

Don't shrink back, hold back or draw back. Let your voice be heard. Silence is assent. Silence is avoidance. Silence is not an option.

So practically how am I partnering with these themes this year?

1. Reading/listening to resources on the Kingdom and especially it's application to the workplace. Myles Munroe. E. Stanley Jones. Bill Johnson. Patrice Tsague. Shae Bynes...

2. Heaven in Business events around the above subjects - see HeaveninBusiness.com/events as registration opens

a) Transformational Leadership online workshop with Ford Taylor March 25-26

b) Leadership Summit conference in person May 26-28

c) Kingdom. Business. Conference in person, September 8-10

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How do we navigate decision making and strategic planning when so much is still uncertain? What about when you make a plan then GOD changes it? Is there ANY point planning in the midst of uncertainty?

This episode opens up my journey from being addicted to vision and planning and having God disrupt my plans completely!!!

Grab a copy of the book Finding Hope in Crazy Times on Amazon - here

Join us on the 30 Day Hope Challenge here (Heaveninbusiness.com/30DayHopeChallenge)

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You are a leader and what overshadows you will overshadow all those you influence. So what if you were literally overshadowed by the Presence of God? That is the promise of Psalm 91. In this session you will get to experience five practical tools that grow your awareness of the Presence of God with you. Tangible. Real. Powerful. 

Enjoy!

This episode was recorded as part of the Heaven in Business membership which gives weekly focussed content to help you grow with God at work and grow your influence around you. Find out more Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

Jump into the free trial to get the video recording, audio download, notes and a library of content that will help you grow in identity, grow in business and grow in influence.

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This session is an interview of four leading business people whom I ask the questions:

1. What are you most grateful for in 2020?

2. What is your most significant learning?

3. How are you positioning for the coming year?

You will hear from an executive of a defense contracting company in Washington DC, an owner of a plumbing/AC/HVAC company in Indianapolis, a cross fit gym owner in San Francisco and a marketing consultant from Redding! 

You are also invited to join me on the 30 Day Hope Challenge January 2021 where we will set you up with foundations that give clarity and confidence for the coming year. Find out more Heaveninbusiness.com/30dayhopechallenge

Thanks for listening and Merry Christmas!

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What you believe determines how you lead. If you view the future with a negative outlook you will lead defensively. If you view the future with hope, you will proactively engage and seek out solutions to the challenges surrounding you.

So how do you lead with hope? What do you do if you feel overwhelmed with the craziness and depressed from what you read and watch?

This episode I take you behind the scenes and show you what works for me. Even better, I put it into a book - in devotional form - so you can apply this to your own life.

This episode reveals how I wrote the book, the behind-the-scenes of three chapters and the simple process you can apply that gives you hope in crazy times! So LEAD!!!

Grab your free copy of Finding Hope in Crazy Times available in multiple formats on Amazon. Free audiobook included.

Join us January 2021 for the 30 Day Hope Challenge. Each day you get a live 30min zoom call with me and a like-minded community choosing to build foundations of success for the coming year. Find out more HeaveninBusiness.com/events

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Here's what I have learned this year through pain, loss and mess. You will gain insight into my life and apply a simple and practical process to take your pain and convert it into something valuable. 

This session was recorded in video format with presentation notes that you can access for free as part of the Heaven in Business membership trial. Membership also gives you weekly 2min motivation, focussed content, strategic prayer and a library of content that will hep you grow in identity, grow in business and grow in influence. Find out more HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

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How do you make sense of all the pain and mess this year? This podcast is also part of the Heaven in Business membership platform where you can access the video, notes and more free for seven days. See Heaveninbusiness.com/free-trial

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How do you navigate so many different opinions? Politics. Pandemic. Racial (in)equality...? In this episode I unpack what I am learning...

First, let's get your self-awareness going by answering a few questions. This is designed to get you to become aware of what you believe to be true. Be candid with yourself and say out loud the first response that comes to mind:

• Was God on the side of the Israelites or the Canaanites when they entered the Promised land?
• Was God on the side of the Jews or the Romans in Jesus day?
• Was God on the side of the Germans or the Allies during WWII?
• Was God on the side of the Democrats or the Republicans last election... or this election?
• Is God on your side or your 'evil' competitors side in business or life?

Correct answer...Neither.

What?????!!!!!

Don't freak out yet... read on.

The Kingdom of God is above all.

He is God. His Kingdom is not of this world. He has no rival or equal. He doesn't vote. The real question is WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON? Whose character and nature and ways are you representing? Keep the main thing the main thing... and still pray, vote and play to win!

Check out the story in Joshua 5 where the Israelites are rolling up to conquer their promised land. Their commander, Joshua, is scoping out the first enemy city - Jericho - and happens across a warrior he doesn't recognize.

"WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON?!" challenges Joshua to the unknown warrior. The context for this question is that God had sent the Israelites. God had told them to wipe out Jericho. God had provided. God had said He would go with them...

So, surely God is on their side and this warrior was on their side or the enemy???

The warrior responded, "NEITHER ONE. I am the commander of the Lord's army."

Joshua immediately fell on his face and said "I am at your command, what do you want your servant to do?" Joshua 5:14 NLT

What's the point? 1. God doesn't take our side, we take His.

1. You remain on His side as long as you are following His ways, fighting His battles, obeying His commands.

2. If you get proud or arrogant in the process, you will find out that, whatever 'side' you are on, you will have God resisting or opposing you (see James 4:6 and more!). Pride is what turned Lucifer from arch angel to chief of demons. Remember that!

3. Rather than telling everyone God is on your side so they best shutup, you are wiser to get on your face and say to the Lord, "I am at Your command, what do you want me to do?"

4. Then do that!

To be clear, take a stand for what is right and just and true. Don't hold back or hide or pretend that everything will be fine if you stay neutral. Faith engages. Faith is messy. Faith speaks and acts.

Just act on God's command and not your cause.

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What distinguishes you as a follower of Christ at work? What is even possible when we do business in partnership with the Founding Creative Entrepreneur of the Universe? In this session I outline WHY I do what I do, WHAT is possible with God at work and HOW to get started on this greatest partnership known to creation.

Download the notes here

You can find out more by grabbing a copy of God With You at Work on Amazon or Audible.

Also, check out the content free for seven days on HeaveninBusiness.com/free-trial

“IF YOU’VE NEVER BEEN CERTAIN THAT GOD WANTS TO BREAK INTO YOUR WORLD AND ROCK YOUR BUSINESS… YOU NEED THIS BOOK.”

Perry Marshall, Bestselling author of 80/20 Sales & Marketing and The Ultimate Guide to Google Adwords

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What do you do when everything is uncertain and unstable and you are not hearing God say anything? 

1. Recenter your life on that which doesn't move. You get more of what you focus on, so focus on that which is good, that which is true, that which is unchanging. This is called worship. Try this - play this song (Way Maker by Leeland) and see what happens inside you as you refocus

2. Remember what God has said or been saying to you. I have a record in evernote of words spoken over my life since 1987

Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be able to stand firm. Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed. 2 Chronicles 20:20

Join us at our weekly Heaven in Business strategic prayer Wednesday 12pm PST. Facebook.com/Heaveninbusiness

1. Remember the testimony of God in your life and simply say "do it again"

What has God done in YOUR history that has brought you to were you are today? Where have you experienced his deliverance, guidance, comfort....

Send me the testimonies of what happens for you as you do this andy@andyandjanine.com. Looking forward to hearing from you!

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How do you know you are succeeding from a KINGDOM business perspective? What even IS Kingdom and business?

First, understand that there are clear business metrics that demonstrate you are a business! If you don’t have customers, you are not in business. If you don’t have a profit, you are not in business (OR you are in a startup | transition phase).

Second, the Kingdom of God is within us. It manifests around us in many different ways but some of those are non-negotiable. The KEY to EVERYTHING in the Kingdom of God is right relationship with the King. Another key aspect is that the Kingdom is that it is always increasing (see Isaiah 9:6) so some starting metrics are in this episode.

Send me your feedback andy@andyandjanine.com

I referred The Hayford Bible Handbook (2004)

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Are you tired of being tired? In this episode I was on a call with Nate Goad as he interviewed Shae Bynes of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur. Shae unpacks her journey from living the corporate grind to finding a practical grace that enables her to do MORE than she imagined but from a place of joy and peace.

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30 MSG)

Find out more about Shae and her book(s):

Shae Bynes - Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur

Book - Grace Over Grind on Amazon

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Last week I was reading The Making of a Leader by Dr Robert Clinton. It was going ok until I hit chapter seven - The Deepening Lessons: Life Maturing Processes. What hit me was the use (BY GOD) of isolation, conflict and crises in order to form maturity in character...

...IF the people going through the isolation, conflict or crisis recognize, reflect and learn what they could only learn in this season.

That's US RIGHT NOW! How many of US will LEARN from this season of isolation, conflict and crises or stumble through the other end to find that it was ONLY isolation, conflict and crisis!

The Israelites were LED BY GOD through the wilderness to be prepared to go into their promised land. Only problem was they NEVER LEARNED what they needed to learn so ended up

1. Spending WAY TOO MUCH time in the wilderness, and

2. Actually dying there.

Bummer.

Jesus on the other hand was LED BY GOD into the wilderness. He learned what He needed to learn in the wilderness and walked out of the wilderness in 40 DAYS... in the POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.

So, will you take way too long in your isolation, conflict and crisis OR will you learn what you need to learn?

Go ahead and ask God what He has for you in the NOW. Yes, it is painful and suffering. AND it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about the goodness of God and what He has for you IN this season.

So, what will you do?

P.S. and B.T.W don't stop praying for a miracle!

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Here's what happened last week when I reached the end of myself and six months of frustration, disappointment and restriction boiled over. I wasn't pretty and God didn't wave a magic stick and make everything better. He did speak and adjust my attitude and give me pause and confirm a painful decision that I knew was right... but didn't want to do.

Here's the story. 

If you are tossing up whether to walk away from some people in order to fulfill your purpose, promise or prophetic word then please pause and listen. It will be for your benefit!

If you are simply saying "I'm done with this!" and can feel anger and disappointment and pain about to spill over, listen to this. 

I pray grace over your moment and a raw and authentic experience with God that changes your life from here on out.

Here's what I've been listening to on playlist that has helped:

The Blessing by Kari Job and Cody Carnes

Champion by Dante Bowe and friends

Egypt by Cory Asbury

Another in the Fire by Hillsong United

Share this with a friend that you know could use some authentic conversations NOW.

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Do you have what it takes to turn your idea into reality? Here's four keys, two great testimonies and a practical activation to help!

1. Ownership - do you truly own your dream? Are you ready to do what it takes to make this happen?

2.Motivation - staying in touch with the passion behind your dream - the WHY - is what keeps motivation alive.

1. Cost - it's not simply being aware of what this dream is going to cost you and those around you; it is taking into account the cost of NOT pursuing the dream. Who stands to lose and how much will it cost them if you DON'T pursue this dream?

2. Season/Timing - be aware of different seasons and timing. There are times when the best thing to do is nothing.... pause, reflect, wait. There are times for internal preparation and very little shows externally. Know your season and timing and partner with that to keep the dream alive and progressing, regardless.

Grab your copy of the entire book (Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life) on Amazon here

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Navigating how to make decisions in the midst of uncertainty and unrest. The core question is WHAT IS MY SOURCE - of provision, of confidence, of clarity... If you are restless, anxious, fearful, waking disturbed in the night... then this is feedback that your source is your own ability. Listen to this episode to hear a story and learn how to anchor your source of supply that results in peace and clarity and confidence regardless of the circumstance.

Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

Matthew 4:4 

Share this with someone you know needing confidence and clarity today.

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How do you know what is God's part and what is your part in going after the dreams and desires of your heart? How do you practically partner with faith? Listen to this session to find out!

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In this episode I walk you through the five step process to turn an idea into action. Whether you have a dream, a business idea or a relationship desire... this will move you from inspired thought to tangible action step. So, let's go!

Grab a copy of the book Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life to see the entire process.

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How is 2020 affecting your sense of value and significance? Results are not going like we planned. Personally, I have had to shrink office space, shrink team, shrink events... I hate this! I can't go outside because of the wildfire smoke and I can't hangout with friends because of COVID and vulnerable family members...

The external results and affirmation that I didn't know I relied on to feel good about myself... are absent.

(Thanks to my wife for helping me work that one out!).

I'm peeling back another laying of identity that is determined by my performance - results. When results don't go like I plan I start to feel unsettled... then anxious... then angry... then depressed... (You fill in the blanks).

The truth is my identity and value is an INSIDE job. My significance was established before I was born. I belong to God and He occupies me! God is with me, period.

So what will I do with 2020?

Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a phenomenal German theologian AND part of the assassination attempt on Hitler late in World War II. His faith had serious action!

I was wondering whether Bonhoeffer would have been wiser... more productive... more effective... to have sat out the end of the war in England or USA and then been a foundational voice and father to rebuild Germany after the war.

The assassination attempt failed and Bonhoeffer was hung just days before his prison camp was liberated by the allies. Was that a wasted life? Was that failure?

From an earthly perspective, yes.

But we are not being measured from an earthly perspective. As a follower of Christ your success is not dependent on your earthly results. Otherwise every martyr was a failure.

Our success is measured by obedience and faithfulness.

Bonhoeffer followed his conviction. He knew he had to be WITH his people and he paid the ultimate price for that.

What about you? What do the results (or absence of them) reveal about where you obtain your value? Is 2020 a waste of a year or is there something deeper and beautiful going on that is calling you to a greater security and significance in who you really are? What will you do about that?

Here's what Bonhoeffer wrote one day after the failed assassination attempt on Hitler:

"How should one become arrogant over successes or shaken by ones failures when one shares in God's suffering in the life of this world?

I am grateful that I have been allowed this insight, and I know that it is only on the path that I have finally taken that I was able to learn this. So I am thinking gratefully and with peace of mind about past as well as present things...

May God lead us kindly through these times, but above all, may God lead us to Himself."

Christine Caine writes:

Sometimes the biggest sign that you are doing exactly what you should be doing, is no one but you and Jesus know you are doing it.

So, who are you really living for?

What is the invitation and opportunity of 2020 revealing to you?

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In this episode I unpack five things you can do when you get blindsided by problems. I have a bunch of things right now that have blindsided me... a bear visited our trash, my phone audio died, I cut my thumb with a power saw, the server for our learning management system was mistakenly terminated.... all in midst of conference week, new courses being launched, fires, politics, COVID19!!!

What has blindsided you lately? And what do you want to do?

I want to run and hide and eat sugar and chocolate. 

But, I've been around long enough to know that won't help. So what do I do? 

1. Physical Activity

When you get blindsided your body releases adrenalin. This is great if you need to fight or run but for most of us there isn't any external situation to combat. So the BEST thing to do is physical activity. Push ups, squats, lunges, walking, running, climbing... ANYTHING will help.

1. Psalms - Identity

Your identity is what is under threat. If you lose perspective you lose the fight. So the next most important thing to do is lock in who God say's you are. You cannot afford to have a thought in your head about yourself that is not in His head about you! Your performance doesn't define you. Your situation doesn't define you...

I'm locked in on Psalm 139. That keeps me in the right zone to be able to approach all else with the right perspective.

1. Priorities

Make a list. When you get blindsided you can easily get overwhelmed by all that is going on. Your head is spinning. You have a million decisions to make. STOP!!! Lock into your priorites. What is ONE THING you must do today to move foward? What is ONE MORE...? Make a list of the things you need to do to help you stay FOCUSSED on what needs to get done.

1. Fun & Family

Don't let the blindside make you blind. Remember your family. Remember you still have a life. Sometimes the most creative, idea releasing activity is to play with your kids... or do something fun. 

I intentionally did weekend activity with my kids. I built a salmon ladder with my son. I continued doing a 1,000 piece puzzle. I played a game with my daughter. I took the dogs for a walk. We watched a movie as a family on Friday night (Spiderman Homecoming). LOVED IT. 

1. Worship

This is the greatest form of warfare you can do. Just worship. Stand in the middle of the mess and sing out loud how awesome God is. His throne is unmoved. He is not surprised or worried. He is all loving, all knowing and all powerful. He is good, period. He is ALWAYS up to something good... even with your mess. 

So what will you do? 

If you are stuck... check out this 20 minute video I put together that walks through a simple five step process how to hear God for practical decisions you need to make today. If you love it and want more you can join me on the next course I am doing. Hey God What Now?

You 

Will

Get 

Through

This

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This episode we unpack three key principles that will set you up to succeed in going after anything that you want in your life.

1. Daily thoughts - what you think about most - and the beliefs that underly those thoughts - will strength or sabotage your day.

2. Daily goals - it is amazing how small steps done consistently over time will move you powerfully forward into whatever it is you are aiming for. What is the one thing you will do today?

3. Dream friend or partner - who can you intentionally build a growth centered relationship with where you can encourage and empower one another to go after what is on your heart? When will you do that?

Get a full copy of the book that this episode refers to on Amazon: Dream Culture - Bringing Dreams to Life.

Download the activation from this episode here.

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In the midst of our crazy times, there is a GREAT OPPORTUNITY to take a step back, refine or redefine our lives. The key to doing this well and succeeding in WHATEVER you move forward with are the beliefs that we build our lives on. Beliefs shape the world we see and preset what we will do when life get's difficult.

This episode covers three core beliefs that a key for us, taken directly from the book, Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life by Andy and Janine Mason.

Here's the link to download the activation for this episode.

Grab your copy of the entire book here.

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It's one thing to have a dream. It's another thing to turn that dream into reality. THAT requires COURAGE and INTENTIONALITY.

The first step is ensuring you have the right foundations to build your dream. Without this, the first obstacle or challenge will knock you flat on your face and you shrink back to mediocrity. You were born with more resilience and tenacity in you than you realize! You CAN do this!

So what are the beliefs that we have observed are NON NEGOTIABLE in successfully building your dream into your new reality?

Listen, learn and apply this episode.

Here's the link to download the activation for this episode.

Grab your copy of the entire book here.

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In this episode I'm breaking the theme of recent episodes (around discovering and living out your dream and purpose) to unpack my CURRENT situation. This is for you TODAY!   Here's what I am personally navigating and learning in the midst of conflict, disagreement, dysfunction and situations where, regardless of what I decide, it appears I will divide people.   How am I navigating this? How do I make my decisions?   Listen for the heart process and the decision making process that is setting me up to succeed.   If you want to join me and Bob Perry to learn about Strategic and Tactical Business Prayer, check out iPray.solutions    

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How do you practically tap into the dreams and desires of your heart? In this episode I give you the simple process PLUS you can download the worksheets below.

What would do if you had no fear of failure?

What would you do if you were ten times more courageous?

What would you do if you believed nothing was impossible?

Grab your copy of the book on Amazon here.

Download the dream activation exercise here.

Download a list of dream starters here.

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In this episode I unpack five reasons why it is so important to leave the safety and comfort of your current life and become ALL you were born for. I also connect what I am reading in the book Jesus and the Disinherited by Howard Thurman and how, regardless of our circumstances, we get to condition the generation around us for the positive OR negative. Will your children be conditioned with fear and an expectation of a heavy life OR will they grow up with the quiet dignity and purpose that makes the impossible logical?

It costs nothing to dream; it costs everything not to.

Rodney White, Artist

You can download the activation exercise here.

You can get a copy of the entire book or e-book on Amazon here.

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In this episode I talk about Dr Martin Luther King Jr and the power of a dream to change society. I also tell the story of Joylyn who experienced the power of a dream through a workshop we did. What happened next, I will never forget. She said, "For the first time in my life I feel valuable." A few months later she was employed full time in the area's she had dreamed of.

I also cover:

• What is a dream
• The power of a dream
• Are all dreams important
• Sample dreams
• Practical dream activation exercise

You can download the full activation here.

Grab your copy of Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life on Amazon here.

Download the Dream Starters list and a Dream List Template here. (Scroll down the page.)

Subscribe and tune in for next episode: "It costs nothing to dream; it costs everything not to."

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In this episode I share how over the last few weeks God has been speaking about re-engaging, or clarifying, the dreams and desires of my heart. Dreaming with God is essential. This is the process of connecting with you WHY, your motivation, your purpose that results in you saying "I was born for this!"

I was born to help people discover purpose and empower them to live it well. I do this everywhere I go, but primarily with business people.

In this episode I walk you through the first chapter of the book Dream Culture: Bringing Dreams to Life.

You can download the activation exercise HERE.

You can grab your own copy of the book on Amazon.com.

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The performance of rest. It sounds like an oxymoron but that couldn't be further from the truth. Rest (in this instance) is not about sleep. It's about identity and value. If I gain my value from what I do - my performance, then when my performance drops (even if that is due to something outside my control), my sense of worth or value also drops. Instead I get anxious, uptight, busy, hurried... you fill in the rest.

If I know who I am and whose I am I get to perform FROM identity and value, not FOR identity and value. I wake up in the morning ALREADY loved, accepted, adored and connected. I get to live unafraid. I get to walk in greater confidence, greater security, greater hope that even though the current situation looks a mess... even though my cashflow is taking a hit... even though I may not be able to help all my employees or my customers... my value and identity is unchanged. I get to anchor is something eternal... someONE eternal. The result? Peace. Flow. Pivot. Innovation. Performance that comes FROM rest, not in order to obtain rest.

So where are you at in the scale of performance to presence? Working from anxiety or working from peace? Listen to the podcast and download the checklist to score yourself and apply the keys to grow in awareness of your true value. THEN get back in the game!

For more: 1. Download and work through the checklist/activation from Doug Hignell

1. Read or listen to my book God With You at Work - see chapter 2 (page 45) for 'notes' on the Performance of Rest and my personal bumpy story coming to this revelation.

NOTE: the initial recording of this podcast was an interview I did with Shae Bynes, Chief Fire Igniter of Kingdom Driven Entrepreneur and author of Grace Over Grind. You can also find her devotionals on the same topic on Youversion.

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The only thing certain is uncertainty! How do I know what I should focus on? How do I decide what to do?

In the midst of pandemic, riots, political positioning, media manipulation... YOU CAN HAVE PEACE. You CAN make decisions that set you up with momentum in the middle of mess. You CAN do this!

In this episode I walk you through the simple process of how I have been hearing God and making adjustments to my business and personal life THAT IS PRODUCING RESULTS! Here's the notes for you to download and follow along.

• I heard God, pivoted and saved over $1500 in flight costs PLUS got back in country just three hours before the borders closed.
• I heard God, pivoted and transformed our in-person executive retreat into an online experience with raving reviews.
• I heard God, pivoted from my monthly travel and generated a brand new course that is equipping business people to hear God and do the same!

It's easier than we think. God is closer than we realize. Best of all, He is not anxious, upset, or surprised by what is going on. He does have hope, wisdom and solutions for life... IF we will listen.

So are you ready to listen?

I'm going to outline the simple 5-step process but first here's a quick win that you can apply immediately.

Start your day analog For those of you born in the digital era, analog is the OPPOSITE of digital. It's what people used to do...

BEFORE you pick up your phone and read the latest notifications,

BEFORE you get distracted by texts and emails,

BEFORE you catch up with the latest social media posts

BEFORE you get your daily dose of anxiety from the news updates

BEFORE you listen to all the OTHER voices telling you what you should do, know about and get concerned over...

PAUSE.

Rebel against the crowd and go analog. Pick up your bible. And a journal. And a pen.

Read an ancient text.

START your day by listening for the voice of Wisdom.

START your day with prayer. Simple gratitude that you are breathing... and have clothes... and breakfast! LISTEN for what the Founding Creative Entrepreneur of the Universe has to say about your "complex" situation... Ask the God of all Wisdom what He wants to say to you... How He feels towards you... What He thinks about you and your day.

Test me in this and see if it doesn't change your ENTIRE outlook for the day.

Now you are ready...

What Do I Do Now? This is a simple process I use to hear God for practical decisions. Remember it is a process that serves me; I don't serve the process. It's helpful to get started but once familiar with the steps, feel free to use, edit, or add to the process to best serve your style.

1. Situation Write down the situation that you are facing write now that you need clarity, decisions or direction for. The clearer you can articulate the situation the easier it is to get to th next step. What is the question you want to ask? Write it down.

2. Hearing Ask God the question. You may be surprised with His answer. If you ask the question, pause for a moment, then have a thought, idea, image, conviction, scripture... that comes to mind, IT'S PROBABLY GOD.

Write down what you hear.

If you want more on hearing God check out Episode 007 Hearing God in Central Park.

1. Meaning What is the practical application of what you heard? How would you apply that to your life. If it's not clear and obvious then jump to step 4.

Remember, the you cannot enter the Kingdom of God unless you come like a child so DON'T OVERCOMPLICATE IT. DON'T TRY TO REASON yourself out of what you heard.

Remember, God's Word (scripture) is a foundational pillar and so is wise counsel...

1. Wisdom Wisdom is found in the multitude of counsellors. By wise counsel, plans are established. So seek wisdom to apply what you heard God say.

I have a multitude of wise counsellors. My wife. My team. My friend. My accountant. My lawyer... Point is, I have people around me who I trust to give me wise counsel.

In seeking wisdom I look for someone with wrinkles... evidence of learning. What evidence do they have (in the area that you are talking about) that gives you CONFIDENCE that they have wisdom? Is there a track record of good decisions? Would people around you agree that they are a person of wisdom?

1. Action So what are you going to do? Write it down.

When?

Not 'probably' or 'maybe' or 'soon.'

WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO TODAY? Once you have taken action you will have RESULTS. Good or bad, they will give you feedback on the next question to ask or the next conversation to have with your wise counsellor.

If you want to unpack this further and walk with me for a month doing just that, sign up for our next Hey God What Now course. FMI and registration follow this link: Hey God What Now?

If you want a practical resource to walk you through this process as a devotional, grab a copy of Finding Hope in Crazy Times: Daily Stories of Hearing God. It's available on Amazon throughout the world and also a special offer HERE.

Make sure you post any questions or comments below.

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Life is happening something crazy! What is crazier is the response of people TO what is happening. On one side, denial and conspiracies are resulting in some people justifying inaction. Others are so distracted by what is going on, they have lost touch with their own purpose and priorities.

In this episode I walk you through a simple process to clarify and protect your priorities. If you don't know and protect your priorities you will live someone else's. One great YES must be protected by a thousand NO's.

Download the notes and activity here:

• NOTES DOWNLOAD

• BIG ROCKS EXERCISE

For more, see HeaveninBusiness.com 

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This week has been crazy... Pain erupting. America burning. Ive been pondering a phrase "For such a time as this," and how it applies to now.

It was said by Mordecai to Queen Esther. Her people were about to be exterminated and she could have sat quietly and comfortably protected by title and privilege. Mordecai challenged her, "What if you were born for a such a time as this? You can speak up and use your privilege to help your people... OR God will cause help to come from another source." (See the book of Esther in the Bible).

What about today? When things get hot and volatile and risky, do you hide behind your privilege and pretend you cannot see or hear... or do you go all in, knowing YOU WERE BORN FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS!

A couple years ago we bought our dream home. It was ten years in the making. Then just six weeks after moving in, we experienced the Carr Fire. I drove my family out of the house with a couple of overnight bags as the U.S.Marshalls were coming up the road compelling people to evacuate. The Carr Fire went on to burn 229,000 acres and over 1,000 structures. Eight people (including five fire fighters) lost their lives.

What I observed was similar to what is happening now.

The crisis, pain, and loss forced people to make a decision. Some people we met had only been in the community for three days before the fire. But the crisis actually STRENGTHENED their resolve to say "THIS IS MY COMMUNITY... WE ARE ALL-IN."

Others made the belated decision to leave. They had already left the community in heart and the fire was simply the final external trigger that confirmed their decision.

Still others literally danced in the ashes of what used to be the living room of their home. They were ALL-IN.

Ten years prior God had led us from New Zealand to USA. We knew we were here for the rest of our lives and fully engaged in the community... BUT we had a privilege: citizens of another country. We could get out any time we wanted.

During the fire, we realized it was time to go ALL-IN. So we did. We started the process of becoming citizens of the United States of America.

Whats the point?

Today there's another fire and you get to choose what you will do.

Perhaps YOU were born for such a time as this. Perhaps THIS is your time to speak up, listen up, help out.

And if you don't... help will come from another source.

So what will you do?

BeTheBridge.com

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Have you realized that no matter how much you accomplish or accumulate, you are never satisfied? You are never made happy by external things. That is only an inside job. Listen as I unpack my current story and the resources that have got me to where I am right now... READY to go all in and fulfill what I was born for.

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In this episode I update you on the results so far from hearing God and pivoting our in-person retreat to a virtual experience. Then I talk through the process of how personally we have scrambled, launched a book, a hope challenge and a course... and yet I've sensed I'm missing something. Here's what I'm learning and getting ready for....

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch - Mailchi.mp/andyandjanine/authentic

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Suddenly our revenue got cut by $40,000. And my forecast for the next twelve months got thrown completely out of whack. When will I be able to have in-person events again? Will there be another outbreak in the fall? How do I budget and plan when I have no idea what to believe?

What do I do now? Listen up as I process HOW I heard God, WHAT that meant, WHO I processed with for wisdom, ACTION step I took and the RESULTS that are giving us momentum in the MIDST of crazy times.

You can do the same!

How do we pivot? 1. Ask WISDOM, His Name is Jesus and He kind of knows everything… 2. Listen, turn aside and take time to actually hear… 3. Process with wise counsel… 4. Take action… 5. Repeat

How will you pivot? Do this process for yourself. It’s free!

Join us on an upcoming virtual retreat. Find out more on HeaveninBusiness.com/events

Access one of our trusted advisors or talk to one of your own.

It’s entirely possible that we can ADVANCE IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCE. It’s not easy. It is POSSIBLE.

What will YOU do?

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Everything is changing. Problem is, I don't know what the changes will end up like! Will I be back to 'normal' in a week? Not likely... I am used to running with vision. I love fast! I am often saying to someone who wants to talk with me, "Walk with me." We will talk as I walk to the next meeting or the car or some other task that needs doing.

Right now, I'm SITTING. And to top it off, I'm sitting AT HOME! I was born for freedom, not restriction. So how do I manage myself, my business, my life when everything is changing.

What am I learning! 

Listen in as I talk about how to slow down, how to be still and hear God and the surprising benefits as a result.

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In this episode Ray Edwards and I talk through the current situation and how we feel 'bombed' and the resulting temptations of feeling powerless. But there is always something we can do. Here's what we are doing. What about you?

Grab your print or digital copy of Finding Hope in Crazy Times and receive the free audiobook on Amazon.com

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I have more questions and uncertainty about next month than I did last week! At least when it was clear we were to 'shelter-in-place' for this month I had clear boundaries. Now everything is uncertain. Are we going back to the office next week? Can I have a BBQ with friends? Will there be live events in June? How do I budget the rest of the year? When will there be a vaccine... The list of questions endless!

One thing is clear... Life is not 'normal' and we are ALL LIVING WITH AN INCREASED MEASURE OF UNCERTAINTY. So how do you deal with it? How do you make decisions?

I think I definitely have a degree (or at least a participation certificate!) in living with uncertainty! In 2008 we left the certainty of our home in New Zealand with my certain employment and my certain retirement and my certain circle of friends and family. I had no idea how much my life was beautifully controlled. Then we arrived in USA with nothing BUT uncertainty: uncertain income, uncertain immigration status, uncertain housing, uncertain future.

That was more than ten years ago and we are still living with uncertainty... except now my circle of influence is much greater so more people can see my successes and failures in the process.

The uncertainty journey triggered a bunch of fear. It looked like anger and 'frustration' and insecurity and trying desperately to hold onto our savings - more akin to fruitless attempts to hold water in your hands.

The point is NOT ONCE did God let us down. It was scary. It was painful looking at how I responded. It was confusing. It was unstable. But I AM BETTER TODAY BECAUSE OF WHAT HAS COME OUT OF IT...(more so because of the faithfulness of God than any awesome decision making on my part).

So YOU are faced with more uncertainty that you realized. How will you deal with it?

Here's your options from my experience and how I see it.

1. Passive Surrender = "I have no control." This looks like blame, accusation, powerlessness, ignorance and avoiding facing the issues. Ive done that. For spiritual people it will sound like "I'm just trusting God." For others it may sound like, "I can't do anything because...[fill in the excuse about some authority or circumstance that has seemingly taken away your power to decide] )"

Bottom line is you always have a choice. No choice is a choice to be powerless. Trusting God is not passive. Surrender to God (ie. trust) is ACTIVE and ENGAGED. It is not simply waiting for someone else to tell you what to do, but intentionally leaning in, looking around, doing what is in your hand and CHOOSING PRACTICAL HOPE. What CAN you do now? What WILL you do now?

1. Active resistance = "I'll take control." This looks like reacting to what others or the authorities are saying by doing the opposite (rather than #3 below). It sounds like "You can't tell me what to do... I have rights!" So you sneak around or blatantly do something, usually only considering yourself and your immediate surroundings. Rarely does this response take into consideration others in the community, especially those less vulnerable.

It looks like me reacting to my situation of no income for three years by stressing and fussing and running around DOING STUFF rather than pausing and thinking through the situation and involving wise counselors and a thought-out plan. It looked like me focussed more on MY problems (and calling it 'responsibility') and having limited capacity or compassion for the people around me.

1. Wise decision making = "I am under control." I think after ten years of uncertainty I MIGHT be learning this. Danny Silk says, "Freedom is telling yourself what to do and then doing it." It is SELF-control. In others words, I don't need the external world to govern me because I manage myself from an internal decision making process.

This looks like hope in the middle of despair, peace in the midst of turmoil and thoughtful consideration in the middle of panic. It thinks long term and acts today. It takes into consideration how one's actions will affect the immediate AND wider community and follows through with a plan to the best of one's ability. It is not passive, but intentional action knowing that we cannot control the outcome anyway - we CAN CONTROL our behaviors moment by moment and we CAN give our best in every circumstance. It is a life of active surrender that takes responsibility for oneself but knows that the ultimate outcome is in the hands of God... and has absolute security in that.

There is always something you can do. There is always something in your hand that you can action. There is always someone you can be a voice of encouragement and wisdom to.

So what will you do? I just released a book that came out of the last ten years of our uncertainty. It's literally 30 different stories (good, bad and ugly) and how I anchored in hope through hearing God and applying this to a practical action step that resulted in wise decision making. I highly recommend you grab a copy and go through a chapter a day. It will cost you ten minutes and will CERTAINLY help you find practical hope in crazy times.

Even better, grab a copy with a friend and walk through it together. That's what I'm doing with my friend Ray Edwards and we are doing it live every morning 7am PST. Join us at RayEdwards.com/Hope or watch the recordings on his facebook page.

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How on earth do I know what to do today? In this episode I go behind the scenes giving you my process of how I hear God on a consistent basis that gives me PRACTICAL WISDOM and guides the decisions I make on a daily basis.

This was actually a conversation I had with Ray Edwards as part of our 30 Day Hope Challenge. Every day for thirty days, Ray and I connect at 7am PST on his facebook page and we dialogue over one chapter of my new book: Finding Hope in Crazy Times.

This particular day we called an audible. We didn't just dialogue over the chapter, but HOW I come up with the ideas, solutions, strategies and wisdom that BECAME the book. Actually it's my lifestyle.

And it was LIVE. I wasn't a scripted, planned out interview. It was simply, "This is what I do, this is how I do it, and this is what it means TODAY."

I trust you will enjoy the conversation and it will help you too!

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Welcome to the conversation. In this episode I talk through how I have been distracted and what I am doing about that. I have learned that there are two issues going on: 

1. Issues over which I have a direct influence and concern and can do something about

2. Issues that I am concerned about, that I am worried about, that affect my bigger world, but over which I have zero Influence.

If I focus on the issues in number two, then I only get frustrated, irritated, wound up, angry...

But if I adjust my attention to the things that I have control or influence over, I become powerful and productive and fruitful, regardless of the external situation and circumstances.

So what will you do?

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Last Friday I had an interview with my friend Ray Edwards. We talked about the current situation, how we are handling the extremes of clients and community facing loss amidst others whose businesses are growing in spite of it.

What about conspiracies?

What do you do when you are empty... when you have nothing left to give? How do you recognize that and what do you do about it?

What is hope?

How do you get hope?

What does a disaster do to a community? We can we expect on the other side of this?

The new book - what is it about? How did it come to be? How did this happen?

And then.... Ray spontaneously proposes we launch a 30 day challenge around the chapters of the book. One per day. Thirty days.

I propose five days a week... starting in a week's time.

Ray says, "How about now?" "How about Monday?" "How about 7am?"

The world is looking for us to lead with hope. Hope doesn't take the weekend off.

So we launched. Daily. 7am PST on Ray's page. Live. Free.

Here's the link. Join us tomorrow!

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In this episode, my wife, Janine and I openly talk about how we are leading our family, making decisions and navigating the range of emotions of ourselves and our four teenagers in the midst of uncertainty.

To give you context, I am just out of self-isolation (literally three days ago). It was the weirdest experience ever - being isolated from my family who were themselves isolated as a result of the "Shelter-in-place" order of California governor. (Hear the story behind this from a previous podcast). This means we are working/schooling from home and have access to essential supplies such as medical, food, home supplies and outdoor exercise (and apparently hunting supplies, essential herein Northern CA).

So how are we leading our family of four teenagers (13, 16, 17, 19)? Here, we reflect around seven areas of life. As you read or listen, consider your own area's to be intentional SO THAT over this period of time you will ADVANCE and INCREASE. The alternative is to run and hide or simply survive. We sincerely believe that in spite of what is going on, there is always something we can do to grow. So here's what we are doing...

Spiritual

• Sunday church online together. Our oldest daughter (19) goes to a different church so is doing their online service and bible study.

• Communion together a couple times a week

• Encouraging one another

• Journalling and scripture and praying individually

• Respecting one another's different approaches in connecting with God

Intellectual

• Kids doing school (1 x 8th grade, 1 x sophomore, 1 x senior, 1 x online college)

• Andy listens to audible books and podcasts and is reading John Adams

• Janine is reading novels... David Baldacci

Emotional

• Walking

• Digging a hole (Ben - 16!)

• Playing with puppy and other dogs

• Hugs

• Getting into the 'wild' - running somewhere beautiful

Physical

• Walking

• Biking and mountain biking

• Digging

• Running

• Pushups, lunges...

• Ping pong

Financial

• Investing in book launch

• Updating financial accounts

• Ideating about what we can do if this crisis continues beyond another month

Relational

• Family meals, together

• Family games in the evenings - Nertz, Clue,

• Family meeting weekly to talk about how everyone is doing and upcoming week

Relax-tional...

• Watching Blindspot on Hulu

• Playing ping pong

• Walking around the block

• Sitting in front of fire and reading a book or listening to music/audible

• Routine (get up, get dressed, do your hair, clean your room, do your dishes... school)

• Invest in something - project, learning (here's 450 Ivy League School courses for free!) and here's a TON of educational resources for kids (fb group).

So what about you? What are your goals for yourself, your marriage, your family at this time?

And what other ideas do you have for any of these area's of life?

Brought to you by Gulf Coast Recreation, your playground expert.

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Are you going through a significant challenge and want to know how to see an opportunity in this? Do you feel like your business has just burned to the ground and you have no idea what to do next? Well, welcome to the conversation! In this episode I interview Ryan Spitz of Shasta Trail Runs and California Untamed. He moved his family from San Diego to Redding in 2017. In 2018 he purchased an events business and after investing six months of time, effort the Carr Fire burned his business to the ground... literally. 

What he did next turned that chaos into the biggest opportunity of his life. 

Listen, learn and be encouraged!

To find out more about Heaven in Business and the growing online community, check out the free 14day trial at HeaveninBusiness.com/online

Remember: NEW BOOK - Finding Hope in Crazy Times, is coming out April 12th on Amazon and you can listen and read a free chapter on our website by clicking here.

Brought to you by Gulf Coast Recreation, your playground expert.

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Last week I travelled to Europe... then everything changed. Here's what happened, what we did and how we decided. AND bonus content, my wife (Janine) joins me and we talk through how we are managing our family at this time, the balance of wisdom and faith and the steps we are taking for the short-term foreseeable future. #crazytimes

I was booked in to be keynote speaker at the first Heaven in Business Ukraine conference. They were expecting 250 people on the first day and double that at the public meetings the following day. On the way, I had planned a stopover in Germany staying with business friends and speaking with a local faith-based business group in Stuttgart. But after departing USA and arriving in Germany we received word that Ukraine government was cancelling all public meetings. BOOM. What would we do now? How would we even decide?

1. What are my options?

First step is to consider what I COULD do (bearing in mind, I have two international students at Bethel's Ministry School traveling with me).

A. Travel to Ukraine anyway and meet individually and/or with small team of leaders. Keep existing itinerary?

B. Travel to Netherlands and stay with business friends who were going to meet me in Ukraine. This couple are also instructors at our Heaven in Business Bootcamps?

C. Stay in Germany and serve the local business community?

D. Cancel all travel and return home immediately.

1. Who are the stakeholders?

In this situation the people concerned are primarily my wife/family, the team with me, and my German hosts. The Ukraine host had already communicated we will reschedule when the situation changes.

Will the borders close? Will we be quarantined somewhere? Did we 'miss-it' even traveling this far? So many unknowns yet after meeting and praying with our German hosts and seeing what God immediately did, we definitely sensed we had made the right decision to come this far.

1. What does God say?

I spoke with my team and our German hosts and we stood around the kitchen and prayed. All of us had the sense to stay in Germany to do the planned meeting there the following night and then talk to the local pastor if there was any way we could serve him over the weekend.

1. Make the decision keeping ears open...

My wife was in full support of us making the best decision in staying in Germany. At this point we were thinking until Monday (it was still Wednesday, and the business meeting was Thursday evening).

As I talked further with my wife we sensed it would NOT be good to stay over weekend and serve local church on the Sunday - they needed to hear from their own team and not a visitor/stranger at this time. So we made the decision to change our flights to return home to USA Friday evening. We let the pastor know and offered to minister to him and his team if the timing would work for them.

At the time the Friday flights were 90% empty. Our airline tried to charge an $1800 change fee but on asking to speak with the manager and having an amicable conversation, they dropped the fee and confirmed the flights. We would arrive back in USA at 9pm on Friday 13th.

What happened?

We woke Thursday morning to news that USA was closing the border to foreigners at midnight Friday 13th. Our decision just 12 hours earlier meant we would arrive just 3 hours before the policy change! Not only that, the plane was now filling up FAST and the price to rebook or change seats suddenly doubled.

Phew! Thank God for wise decisions!

The Thursday evening meeting was excellent. The topic was last weeks podcast: 7 Keys to Find Hope in Crazy Times.

We arrived back in USA after reading the Center for Disease Control guidelines and expecting to be given information or told that we need to self-isolate. But... nothing. It was the OPPOSITE of what we expected - no information, no handout, close proximity lines as per normal airport navigation. I was confused. If this is so serious, why is the gateway wide-open and ZERO management in place???

So what did we do next - AT HOME?

I was shocked at the contrast between Government and CDC statements and what I experienced at the airport.

What should I do at home? Do I follow CDC self-isolation guidelines or interact with others as normal? Was I REALLY any threat to my community? Here's my process:

I am part of a large organization in my city and I have a daughter with a heart condition… so I will be self isolating in my own house for the next two weeks. I am not happy. This is not fun. This seems absolutely crazy. But this is not about me. It’s not my personal risk. It’s about slowing down the spread of the virus as best as possible to protect those vulnerable and to allow the medical profession to get a handle on how to control it. It is very highly likely that I am perfectly healthy. But that 0.01% chance of introducing the virus to my daughter…who works in the food industry... or to the husband of my employee… or to the grandmother of my neighbor… is not worth the risk. In other words, my discomfort and isolation for two weeks is a lower cost than the cost of my daughter or community member being affected through me.

So here we go. Two weeks from my bedroom (and forays into the recreation area behind my house...).

Stay healthy, stay hope filled, stay wise.

Finally here's your daily prescription:

READ and PRAY Psalm 91.

SHARE communion with family - Jesus blood paid for this in full!

CALL a friend or colleague and encourage them in midst of this.

You are not alone.

Brought to you by Gulf Coast Recreation, your playground expert.

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We certainly are in crazy times! I understand there is a virus, but the extent of fear and paranoia (and Aussies stockpiling toilet paper) is more of a virus than the virus! So how do you maintain hope (a positive view of the future) when all things around you are crazy? Good question! And even better, Ive got a book coming out next month to help you with just that. But for now, here's some practical keys to find hope in crazy times...

In crazy times people do crazy things. It's also the greatest opportunity to grow, to advance, to establish. What will you do?

Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise: For yet a little while, And He who is coming will come and will not tarry. "Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him." BUT WE ARE NOT OF THOSE WHO DRAW BACK TO PERDITION, BUT OF THOSE WHO BELIEVE TO THE SAVING OF THE SOUL. Hebrews 10:35-39 (NKJV)

Hope sees a better future and SOLUTIONS for now. Faith acts on what hope sees. Faith is anchored in hope. I see a better future. I believe in a good God. I know there is a solution. This is going to be ok. This is going to work out for my good!

And even if I die, I get to see Jesus face to face. My eternity is secure. You cannot scare me with death.

So how do you find hope (perspective, belief, courage, comort...) in the midst of crazy times?

Practical Keys to Find Hope in Crazy Times:

1. Daily word - Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer. What is He saying TODAY for my TODAY?

Prayer = LISTEN Pray in the spirit AND with understanding. Communion.

1. What do you see (God doing)? What do you hear (is happening)? What do you REMEMBER (if nothing else, remember what He has done in the past)?

Testimony of Ryan and flu 103.5F temperature gone in 60mins.

1. Worship

2 Chronicles 20 tells a story of being outgunned, outmanned, outnumbered and outplanned and it wasn't George Washington! The Israelites were completely overwhelmed and didn't know what to do. So they asked God and He gave a strategy seemingly bizarre: "Send in the worship team first." Crazy matches crazy huh?

But God. Worship changes atmospheres. It reminds you how big God is. It makes room for Him to move and for you to advance.

So worship until your song lines up with His.

1. Wise counsel

See previous post on the best way to maximize your life.

1. Family, team, covenant friendship - we are in this together. Iron sharpens iron. Better a friend nearby than a brother far away.

2. Hope for TODAY - what will you do TODAY. I cannot control tomorrow. What will i do TODAY? Prioritize. Act. DO THIS.

3. Necessary Endings - what do you need to stop doing, start doing, keep doing? See Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud Here's the book launch team I mentioned - check out the details HERE.

Brought to you by Gulf Coast Recreation, your playground expert.

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This episode is a truly messy intersection around faith, family and business. I am supposed to travel to Europe in a weeks time. Coronavirus is spreading around the world. Depending on who I listen to I could bunker up inside my home for the next couple months. How do I decide what to do?

First here's a really cool RELEVANT testimony of what happened last week:

Advisor (me) had a scheduled call with business client who imports and installs playground equipment. Client sounded terrible and turned out he had fever since 2am. He hadn’t used any medication and felt like a punching bad - aching all over. Client had to work anyway as best possible because of workload. He had eaten very little but drank lot of water and coffee. He had been predominately working from the couch in his office. The call with the advisor was at 6:00pm. They Prayed at 6:05pm. His temperature was 103.5 (F). The conversation was all about the supply chain in China and the impact of Coronavirus in clients business.

At 635pm client noticed he was feeling better and temperature showed 99.1.

At 7:05 pm temperature was 98.8. Client said he was “Feeling good! 80-90% pain gone. Just feels like worked out. Feels like too much energy - feeling wired!”

He then Walked into office next door and his wife exclaimed, “You look like a different person!” Business man went home and played with his kids.

Boom. That's a good way to remember God has power over all disease. THAT'S the way I want to live my life - from a confidence of knowing that I serve the God who paid for every sickness and disease.

So how do I make a decision in the midst of all this? Do I just blindly travel or something else? Here's my process: 1. Make the decision from faith not fear

First set your confidence and security on what does not move - Christ and His Kingdom. Become more aware of Him and His victory and dominion, than of the problem or pain. This is not avoidance; it is establishing perspective and priority.

I do this by remembering testimony. I vocalize gratitude for who God is and His influence in my life. I thank Him for His full and final victory over every disease and even over death. My eternity is secure.

1. Make the decision with stakeholders

I am healthy. I eat healthy (mostly). I exercise. The virus is most dangerous for elderly and for infants and for people with health vulnerabilities. This means I am highly unlikely to be adversely affected... individually.

However, it's not just my decision to make. I am part of a family with a daughter who has health challenges. I am part of a community that hosts students and events and guests from all over the world. What happens to me, affects those around me. I need to take that into consideration and be aware of my stakeholders.

1. Make the decision with facts Faith is not ignorance or denial. It is knowing the situation and confidently making a decision, regardless of what that decision may be.

The Center for Disease Control website has a ton of facts. My travel insurance policy and website has a ton of facts. My host in Europe has local facts. The media has a ton of fear. It doesn't take a genius to ascertain where to find the reliable information.

1. So what will I do?

I don't know yet. At this point I will be traveling unless there is a major increase in disease where I am traveling and/or travel advisory warns against travel. I have some alternative options. I have a plan. I am 100% in unity with my wife. I am confident. Regardless, this will work out for my good.

What about you? How are you making your decisions? Where do you need to realign from faith to fear, or include other stakeholders, or seek facts rather than cheap opinions? What will you decide?

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