It is stated that life or death is a mere 18 inches each time we pass another vehicle on the road. Others have stated it is 18 inches between the mind and the heart, which is the distance between eternal life and death. Life and death circumstances are often closer than we realize!

No matter what business, organization, or ministry, leadership is essential. Leadership can take a small work and turn it into an international business, or an international business can become obsolete, all as a result of management decisions.

America's John Paul Jones' statement, "I have not yet begun to fight", and a recent statement by Ukraine's current president, "The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride", are two statements that have galvanized supporters and countries to attempt what appeared to be impossible. In the darkness of uncertainty, a person or nation's destiny can be determined by those who confidently speak and lead.

I have noticed that when good things are happening, it appears that many more positive things occur collectively. Good news seems to bring smiles and praise leads to a better quality of work. The opposite is often true as well. When discouragement and complaining begins in a group, suddenly the attitudes and perspectives of people change accordingly.

Being in one location and living there for a period of time allows you to become comfortable with stores, parks, schools and the little nuances of an area that no one but the locals know. It was enjoyable to visit Hawaii because our daughter-in-law grew up there and knew where to go and how to get to places despite the traffic.

In our staff meetings, we have been learning some leadership principles. Several have been given that are short and yet speak clearly to leadership. "Leaders eat last" and "Everything speaks" are two we have learned. The point is, as leaders, we are to be aware of our actions and attitudes.

Many people in our country appear to be desiring a culture and lifestyle that promotes mediocrity. Instead of a strong legal system and clear limits declaring right and wrong, there is a movement to blur traditional standards so that each person has the right to determine their own moral values.

One of the greatest tasks in coaching and leading people is to get them to believe and accept challenges before seeing results. The many hours of obedient preparation are necessary before achievements and victories occur. Obedience is a fundamental element to success in sports, business, and spiritual development.

Numbers are important in our world in various ways. We are always looking for a bargain, by comparing prices for the best deal! The number on my draft notice helped me decide to enlist when I was eighteen, rather than risk being drafted into a branch of the military I did not desire to serve.

Worship before the Lord involves all that we are; our minds, heart, skills, and finances. While the Lord redeems us and allows us to both prosper and be in need, we must never lose the fact of His sovereign control and our position of being stewards of His resources. Romans 11:36 reminds us, "For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen".