encouragement – Page 6

A lesson in leadership

Here there BCU Family!

I typically record our content in an informal “podcast on the go” format. Many times, the Lord gives me subject matter as I am driving or waiting, so I record on the spot! You can access the podcast here, or click on the avatar below, as you refer to the show notes below for the highlights. We pray the content blesses and encourages you. If so, please thumbs up AND leave a comment! Thank you and enjoy the podcast!

BlenCouragesU · BCU podcast | A lesson in leadership | Ep 340

Podcast highlights:

When on the job, I am privileged to facilitate some amazing content to many phenomenal new and aspiring leaders.
Sometimes, leaders need to be reminded that staff needs time, patience, understanding and compassion to learn the ropes of a new task.
Recently, the Lord reminded me of a time where He used someone to teach me the aforementioned points—-many years ago, and how that teaching helped to shape my life to His glory.

KJV Scripture References

Ecclesiastes 3:1,3

1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

2 Timothy 3:16

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

Philippians 4:6-7

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Proverbs 16:24

Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

Colossians 4:6

Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

2 Corinthians 1:6

And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.

BCUFam, I have been saying this for years—-we have to know how to talk to people, so they will want to talk with us. While there is a time for reproof and correction, most of the time, it is not while the person is crying out for assistance. Therefore, it is prudent that we are slow to anger and speak, and quick to hear what the person is saying, as well what the Lord is saying, so He will guide us on our responses. We can never over-acknowledge the Lord when it comes to needing help on how to take care of His assignments, so that He is honored and glorified in our lives.

I lost track of the sister that was such an encouragement to me, but the Lord knows who she is. I thank the Lord for how He used her to comfort and undergird me, and to shape how I interact with people. My prayer is that the Lord will always bless her and her family spiritually, physically, financially, mentally and emotionally—- and in all abundance until He comes back again. We never know how our acts of kindness will not only bless us, but all whom we are connected to as well. And on top of it, we will be welcomed into heaven for a job well done, as good and faithful servants! Now that’s something to look forward to! Amen? Amen! Let’s pray!

Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank You for what our ears have heard! We thank You for the people You have placed in our lives, realizing that sometimes, they are with us for a season—to help us get to the next level in You. We also thank You for helping US to be cognizant that we may be “that person” for someone else. Please help us to acknowledge You in all our ways, as we endeavor to take good care of the people You have entrusted us with, so You will be magnified in our lives. We thank You, Jesus, for continuing to strengthen and keep us, as we continue to give you all the glory, honor and praise, in Jesus name we pray and thank You, Amen!

As a reminder, if you have not subscribed to BlenCouragesU.com, please do so! It’s free and a good place to get the encouragement, inspiration and information based the Word of God! Additionally, you can also see what we are up to on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Also, if you so inclined, join us Thursday nights––we are LIVE on YouTube 8:05EST/7:05CST. You can also listen in and subscribe to the podcast on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Pandora, and Spotify!

Thank you SO much for stopping by! God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

2 Apr 2024

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Survivor’s Song | Interview with Connie L. Johnson

Here there BCU Family!

You can access the podcast here , or click on the avatar below, as you refer to the show notes below for the highlights. We pray the content blesses and encourages you. If so, please thumbs up AND leave a comment! Thank you and enjoy the podcast!

BlenCouragesU · BCU podcast | Survivor’s Song | Connie Johnson | Ep 339

Podcast highlights:

We are wrapping up our conversation with my songwriter, author, advocate and friend, Connie L. Johnson.
In our first conversation, Connie and I talked about christian conduct, advocacy and blessing others.
Our last talk was about trauma, grief, AIDS advocacy, “busyness” and healing.
This time, we chat about introversion, “Ted Talking”, and being a good neighbor.

KJV Scripture References

Psalm 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

John 13:35

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

James 2:8

If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

Where are all my introverts who are living in this extroverted world? LOL! lThe struggle is real, but so is our amazing God who is able to strengthen us to stand up and out for Him. Also, this was a good reminder for us to be a good neighbor to the people we come in contact with.

As a gifted speaker, Connie has a Ted Talk which you can access here. She has also written a book about women in Kenya who are living with HIV and AIDS. If you would like to purchase Connie’s book, Beyond Measure, please visit her site here: www.IamConnie.me, or you can reach out to her at “IAmConnie40” on all social media platforms. Let’s end in prayer!

Father, in the name of Jesus, as we come before You today, we thank You for the blessing of love, fellowship and friendship. We also thank You for remembering those of us who are on the shy side to allow Your Spirit to rise up in us, so we can boldly live and speak for You without fear—in the empowering name of Jesus!

Jesus, we ask that you please touch the body and mind of someone who is in pain today. Please remember all who are living with HIV, AIDS and any other disease, and heal as only You can, Jesus! We thank You that someone will now know that You are a Healer, Savior, deliverer and a very present help in the time of trouble!

Please help us, Jesus, to know how we can love on and be a good neighbor to everyone, so we do our part in honoring and caring for the people who are made in Your image. We thank You for continuing to bless and keep us as only You can, in Jesus name, we pray, Amen!

Thank you SO much for stopping by! God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

26 Mar 2024

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Beyond Measure | Interview with Connie Johnson

Here there BCU Family!

BlenCouragesU · BCU podcast | Beyond Measure—Connie Johnson | Ep 338

Podcast highlights:

We are continuing our conversation this week with a sweet friend of mine, Connie Johnson.
Last time, Connie and I talked about christian conduct, advocacy and the importance of blessing others.
In this conversation, we talk about trauma, grief, AIDS advocacy, “busyness” and healing.

KJV Scripture References

Psalm 147:3

He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

Luke 10:38-42

³⁸Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.

³⁹And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.

⁴⁰But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

⁴¹And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:

⁴²But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Matthew 11:28-30

²⁸Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

²⁹Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

³⁰For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

BCUFam, when Connie asked, “am I busy, or about My Father’s business?”——that question resonated with me on a few different levels! Over the last few years, the Lord is helping me to realize that it is better sit at the feet of Jesus, to actually hear and do what He is calling us to do, versus proving our “faithfulness” to others by being overly busy in every area that needs help.

As a gifted speaker and author, Connie has written a book about women in Kenya who are living with HIV and AIDS. If you would like to purchase Connie’s book, Beyond Measure, please visit her site here: www.IamConnie.me

When we are together next time, Connie and I will wrap up our conversation, so please stay tuned! In the meantime, let’s pray!

Father, in the name of Jesus, as we come before You today, thank You for the reminder Jesus, that we do not have to prove our love to You by being over-scheduled. Please help us to know which assignments are ours and when to do them, so You are honored and pleased with us.

Jesus, we also ask that You please heal all who are broken-hearted. Please touch the body and mind of someone who is in pain today, Lord. Please remember all who are living with HIV, AIDS and any other disease, and heal as only You can, Jesus! We thank You that someone will now know that You are a Healer, Savior and a very present help! Glory!

Please help us, Jesus to know how we can be a blessing to at least one person according to Your will and way, so we do our part in honoring and caring for the people who are made in Your image. We thank You for continuing to bless and keep us in Your care, in Jesus name, we pray, Amen!

Thank you SO much for stopping by! God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

19 Mar 202419 Mar 2024

BlenCouragesU1 Comment

Room A203 | Interview with Connie Johnson

Here there BCU Family!

You can access the podcast here, or click on the avatar below, as you refer to the show notes below for the highlights. We pray the content blesses and encourages you. If so, please thumbs up AND leave a comment! Thank you and enjoy the podcast!

BlenCouragesU · BCU podcast |Interview with Connie Johnson | Ep 337

Podcast highlights:

We are in Room A203 this week with a conversation with a sweet friend of mine—-singer, songwriter, poet, advocate and so much more, Connie Johnson.
Connie and I connected via “accidentally” via social media, and found we had many things in common.
In this segment, Connie and I talk about christian conduct, advocacy and the importance of blessing others.

KJV Scripture References

Luke 6:31

And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.

Luke 10:25-37

25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?

27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.

29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?

30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,

34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?

37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

WHEW!!!! BCUFam, when Connie said we have to be mindful of how we interact and view people, that was a spiritual gut check and call to action. As followers of Christ, we are called to love and care for His people, rather than name call, shame and neglect them. That was a good reminder that we have work to do!

Interestingly enough, I interviewed Connie late last year, with the intent to have podcast uploaded in January. God’s timing worked out so much better, since it is Women’s History Month. And with the help of the Lord, this amazing woman is definitely making history and changing the future for many children, and I am sure inspiring others to do the same as the Lord leads! Amen? Amen!

Lord will, I plan to continue our conversation the next time we are together, where we will cover trauma, grieving, and healing. In the meantime, let’s pray!

Father, in the name of Jesus, as we come before You today, thank You so much for all our ears have heard. Jesus, we ask You to search our hearts and please forgive us for any times we made someone feel marginalized for the situations or choices that were made. We truly want to do unto others and we would have them do unto us. Please help us, Jesus to know how we can be a blessing to at least one person according to Your will and way, so we do our part in honoring and caring for the people who are made in Your image. We thank You for continuing to bless and keep us in Your care, in Jesus name, we pray, Amen!

Thank you SO much for stopping by! God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU

12 Mar 202412 Mar 2024

BlenCouragesU2 Comments

The Taskmaster vs. The Master

Here there BCU Family!

BlenCouragesU · BCU podcast | Taskmaster vs. The Master | Ep 335

Podcast highlights:

Earlier in my career, I had a leader who was a “micro-manager”, strict ruler and rule-follower.
There was a time I needed to ask this person for a favor that was outside of the established policy.
While the request was a “long shot”, the Lord worked things out (to His glory), and used this experience to refine me, my work, and my prayer life.

KJV Scripture references:

Colossians 3:23-24

23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

Proverbs 21:1

The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: He turneth it whithersoever He will.

Mark 9:23

Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

BCUFam, when it comes to work, I know there are tasks, people and times that can really challenge us! That’s where we need to remember that our work is really as unto the Lord rather than people. If we work according to how God instructs us, He will reward us accordingly—-and we know when God gives rewards, [whether tangible or not, or on this side of Heaven or not], they are always good!

Also, I am reminded that God can move on the heart of ANYONE! Some of you know people who are hardened and not much moves them——but I know a Man WHO CAN!!!! Continue praying on those impossible situations and see how the Lord moves on your behalf! Watch him work it out and give you peace while you wait! The answer may be different from what you expected, but because God’s ways are perfect, His answers are perfect. Amen? Amen! Let’s pray!

Father, in the name of Jesus, as we come before You today, we thank You for Your goodness, grace, mercy, power and kindness! We thank You for the opportunity to come before You and make our requests know to You, and the peace of God that passes all understanding will guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7). There are some things we have been praying for, some situations on our hearts and minds, some impossible challenges that we want to leave with You, Jesus, knowing You have the best resolution, because You are God, You are good and You are able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all we can ask or think according to the power that works in us (Ephesians 3:20).Thank You for the victory according to Your timing, will and way, in Jesus name we pray and thank You, Amen!

Thank you SO much for stopping by! God bless, keep and make His face to shine upon you as you #StayOnTheWall!

Love,

BCU