Sustaining the Next Level Retreat Modules SIB brethren

SUSTAINING THE NEXT
LEVEL
RETREAT MANUAL
Prepared by: Dr. Oyewole O. Sarumi Date: Friday Dec. 14, 2017
ORGANISED BY
PASTORAL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, LAGOS.
FOR
The SALVATION, IDEAS & BREAKTHROUGH [SIB] BRETHREN, Lagos

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P a g e | 1 PLI …..Raising & Empowering leaders
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
OPENING CHARGE: Criteria for sustaining the next level 2
PLI Vision & Mission 5
Retreat Hymns 6
MODULE 1: Understanding the Law of Development 7
MODULE 2: Why Self-Development in Christianity? 10
MODULE 3: The Key Issues in Christian Personal Development 13
MODULE 4: Organize to Maximize 16
MODULE 5: Developing Effective Habits 19
MODULE 6: The Power of Relationships 21
MODULE 7: The Grace of Commitment for the Next Level 23
CLOSING CHARGE: Focus Areas for Sustenance of the Next Level 26
References and Further Readings 28
PLI Short Courses for 2017 29
SUSTAINING
THE NEXT
LEVEL

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OPENING CHARGE
CRITERIA FOR SUSTAINING THE NEXT LEVEL
Text: Deuteronomy 1:6-8 [Please read from KJV, NIV, MSG and NLT]
6 "The Lord our God spoke to us in Horeb, saying: 'You have dwelt long enough at this mountain.
7 Turn and take your journey, and go to the mountains of the Amorites, to all the neighbouring
places in the plain, in the mountains and in the lowland, in the South and on the seacoast, to the
land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon, as far as the great river, the River Euphrates. 8 See, I have
set the land before you; go in and possess the land which the Lord swore to your fathers — to
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob — to give to them and their descendants after them.' NKJV
6 The Lord our God said to us at Horeb, "You have stayed long enough at this mountain. 7 Break
camp and advance into the hill country of the Amorites; go to all the neighbouring peoples in the
Arabah, in the mountains, in the western foothills, in the Negev and along the coast, to the land of
the Canaanites and to Lebanon, as far as the great river, the Euphrates. 8 See, I have given you
this land. Go in and take possession of the land that the Lord swore he would give to your fathers
— to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob — and to their descendants after them." NIV
6 Back at Horeb, God, our God, spoke to us: "You've stayed long enough at this mountain. 7 On
your way now. Get moving. Head for the Amorite hills, wherever people are living in the Arabah,
the mountains, the foothills, the Negev, the seashore — the Canaanite country and the Lebanon all
the way to the big river, the Euphrates. 8 Look, I've given you this land. Now go in and take it. It's
the land God promised to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and their children after
them." THE MESSAGE
6 "It was forty years ago, at Mount Horeb, that Jehovah our God told us, 'You have stayed here
long enough. 7 Now go and occupy the hill country of the Amorites, the valley of the Arabah, and
the Negeb, and all the land of Canaan and Lebanon-the entire area from the shores of the
Mediterranean Sea to the Euphrates River. 8 I am giving all of it to you! Go in and possess it, for it
is the land the Lord promised to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and all of their
descendants.' TLB
If we critically examine peoples’ lives as it being lived by millions on earth today, it will amaze you
that many are stuck in the same place in regard to ministry, career and personal life. Why? Majority
refused to seize the varying opportunities that dangle themselves to attain our full potentials as they
journey through life. We become comfortable with what worked yesterday not realizing that God is
calling us to another level; another level in our ministry; another level in our career and another level
in our personal lives.
God is not a stagnant God, but a progressive One. He is not a God that you should limit neither should
you put a limit on yourself. He is not a God that is comfortable with giving His children second-best,
neither does he want us to be comfortable with yesterday’s blessings, for His blessings are new every
morning as He wants us to move to another level.
Our next level is not simply a destination. Our next level is a state of being, a state of mind or a
perspective that takes us from one level in Christ to another. God is calling us to our next level in
life, in love, in worship, in relationships, in career, in ministry, in family and in personal to our next
level. <Weaver; http://www.patrickweaverministriesblog.com>

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God has supernatural plans for our lives. His divine plans are what give us hope, direction and
power. God tells us in Jeremiah 29:11 -- NIV, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the
LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." However,
the enemy desires to prevent us from maturing, growing and leaving our last level (Luke 22:31). The
enemy will use the people in our lives, our history, our experiences, our thoughts and our emotions
to discourage us from going to our next level. When your faith and determination is fixed on going
to your next level in life, God is glorified, your testimony is magnified and the enemy is discomfited.
God says in Isaiah 43: 19 - “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I
am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” God wants to do a new thing in
our lives, but if we cannot perceive it, then it will be tough to acknowledge when our season of
complete increase has come. God does not just want to bless a certain aspect of our life, He desires
to bless every area of our life, “do you not perceive it?” Stop settling for where you are now and move
to another level, it is the will of God for you do so. <Swaby; http://www.biblewaymag.com/>
According to Patrick Weaver, the bible teaches us three powerful wisdom principles for growing and
going to each new level in life. Each principle may have a different application in your life but the
key is, we must have a next level state of mind that consciously connects us to our divine self and the
plans that God has for our life. <http://www.patrickweaverministriesblog.com>
First, you don't go to your next level, you grow in to it. The children of Israel wondered in the
wilderness for 40 years before they walked into their promise (Numbers 32:13). David was a
shepherd years’ before he became King (1 Samuel 17:34). Sarah was barren for ninety years before
she become the mother of nations (Genesis 17:17). The woman with the issue of blood searched for
12 years before being healed (Luke 8:43). Each of us is anointed to go to our next level, but we have
an anointed time and an appointed time. Your anointed time is the time for growth and preparation
for your next level.
In life, if you are always where God intended you to be, then you will learn what God intended for
you to learn in order to grow to your next level. Your next level ministry, your next level healing,
your next level appointment and the next level vision that you will give birth to, is in you -- you are
anointed for greatness, but your next level appointment is not the result of time, it's the result of last
level lessons learned.
Second, your highest and best self is connected to the worst feeling, emotion, fear or oppressive
thought that you carry. We're not who we think we are, we are what we carry. No matter what level
we're on in life, the seeds we plant and carry in our soul determine the harvest produced in our
mind. What we attach our thoughts to determines how we look at life, opportunities, challenges,
people and our power in Christ. Whatever oppresses your thoughts or the truth, will depress your
potential.
Overcoming, growing, transitioning and prospering is not because of our faith alone but also because
of the condition of our faith. Faith is what we believe, faithfulness is what we do about what we
believe -- "But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds,
and I will show you my faith by my deeds. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons
believe that--and shudder..." (James 2:18-20, NIV). Going to our next level requires our conscious
participation in the actions that nourish and support our connection to our highest and best self.
The bible tells us what to do and how powerful our mind is: "...be made new in the attitude of your
minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God..." (Ephesians 4:22-24, NIV). Sometimes,
connecting to and maintaining a focus on our highest and best self, our divine and anointed self,
requires that we do the work -- through faith, to disconnect from thoughts, emotions, habits and
even some people that prevent us from tapping into our greatness.

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Third, a friend to your weakness is an enemy to your greatness. Our power, potential, hope and
promise are based on the wisdom we use in life. The bible tells us, "The beginning of wisdom is this:
Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding" (Proverbs 4:7). Growing to or moving
towards our potential takes growing in wisdom and understanding. Every level in life is preparation
for our next level -- next level wisdom comes from last level lessons learned. To unbreak our heart,
move beyond a hurt, overcome fear, challenge life's difficulties, own our peace, accept losses, walk in
authority and to mature our faith, our wisdom has to align with our faith (James 1:6-8).
As said earlier, growing to the next level in life is not a destination, it's a process. The bible tells us
that our lives are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2, NIV); "Renewing," is a
process that we go through daily. Renewing our mind is the conscious act of repairing, replacing and
rethinking thoughts and beliefs that restrict us from gaining or using wisdom (2 Corinthians
13:5). Anything that keeps our mind, heart or emotions from gaining or using wisdom is an enemy
to our greatness. Any thought that threatens to cancel our next level, our self-esteem, our
appointment, our potential, our greatness, or living our best life is a friend to our weakness (James
4:7, John 10:10, James 1:17, Hebrews 6:17).
Your next level is appointed for your anointed mind; going to our next level in life is a process that
takes faith, work and tapping into our greatness and the resources God has placed on our
ways. Powerful, next level living is a result -- of what we do about what we believe. God is calling
you to your next level in life. You owe yourself a duty of life time to keep growing to your next level.
In 2 Kings 2: 13-15, the story of elevation of Elisha into the prophet office, brings four things to mind:
Mentor, mentee, mantle, and mention. The mentor – someone that you [the mentee] look up to, the
mantle [power, challenge: for any mantle that has fallen, a decision must be made if you are going to
pick it up, put it on and take what comes with it], and lastly, the mention – represents the words of
the sons of prophet [those who underrate or does not belief in you] to confirm and affirm your next
level to the world. <Gregory Thomas; http://www.sermoncentral.com>
Your next level is appointed for your anointed mind; going to our next level in life is a process that
takes faith, work and tapping into our greatness. When you position for next level growth, next level
promises, next level faith and next level living, you are declaring war against the forces that challenge
you -- mentally, emotionally and spiritually (Isaiah 54:17, James 4:7, 2 Corinthians 10:5). As soon as
you commit yourself to going to your next level, you are taking a position that says, "God created me
to be a factor, to be a force, to be an expression of power, dominion and authority in my life and the
lives of the people around me." Powerful, next level living is a result -- of what we do about what we
believe. God is calling you to your next level in life. You owe ‘the you’ to grow to your next level.
You are welcome to a stimulating experience that only Jesus can give as we labour to sustain the new
levels in life.
Pastor Oyewole O. Sarumi [PhD]
Chief Learning Officer

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PASTORAL LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
VISION:
To be a catalyst for raising world class leaders who will disciple others for heaven.
MISSION:
To provide innovative and inspirational development for emerging and established
Christian leaders, by helping and giving them opportunities and resources for
personal and professional growth.
We shall accomplish these by the provision of various platforms and interface
where required information, knowledge and skills would be shared to engender
positive change and prosperity within the leadership cadre and consequently
impact the body of Christ.
OUR CALL
We are called to do the following:
 Pastors and Leaders Training
 Ministers and Workers Training
 Church Leaders’ Retreat & Conferences
 Strategic Church Management for leaders and under-leaders.
 Conference, Seminars and Workshop for Leaders.
 Church Advisory and Consultancy.
HOW TO CONTACT US
For your Training, Conferences, Retreats, Counselling and Advisory Services, please contact:
Executive Administrator,
Pastoral Leadership Institute,
Plot 1, Junaid Dosunmu Street, Central Business District, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.
Tel: 0818 648 9589, 0708 306 3146.
Website: www.pl-academy.org
E-mail: pastorral.leadershipinstitute@gmail.com, leadershipmgtservice@gmail.com

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RETREAT HYMNS
HYMN 1 HYMN 3
I AM PRAYING BLESSED SAVIOUR
I am praying, blessed Saviour,
To be more and more like Thee;
I am praying that Thy Spirit
Like a dove may rest on me.
Refrain:
Thou Who knowest all my weakness,
Thou Who knowest all my cares,
While I plead each precious promise,
Hear, oh, hear and answer prayer.
For a faith so clear and bright
That its eye will see Thy glory
Through the deepest, darkest night.
I am praying to be humbled
By the power of grace divine,
To be clothed upon with meekness,
And to have no will but Thine.
And my constant prayer shall be
For a perfect consecration,
That shall make me more like Thee.
HYMN 2
THE HOLY GHOST HAS COME!
The Holy Ghost has come
The Comforter is here,
Flaming up our hearts
With fire so divine
Lord we lay down our lives]
Ready to burn. ] 2x
GRACE THY GRACE ALONE
1.
Grace Thy grace alone
Has brought me to Thy will
Stranger and alien I had been
‘Til grace brought me so high
Refrain:
Grace, Thy grace alone
Is all I plead for,
Grace to serve Thee aright Lord
O! Grace to love Thee more
2.
Tis grace that teaches me
Thy path for me to know
And Grace day by day leads me on
My call not to let go
3.
I long for this Grace Lord
To be faithful a steward
To lay my all down for the Church
Till her glory burst forth
4.
Make me a battle axe
Kept Lord in Thy quiver
Tried, Trimmed, Sharpened in Thy furnace
Meet for my Master’s use.

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MODULE 1:
UNDERSTANDING THE LAW OF DEVELOPMENT
Text: “Though your beginning be small yet your latter end shall greatly increase.” Job 8:2, NKJV
Introduction
Everything great started off small in comparison to its end result. Most organizations
started with a few people, most complex systems started simple, even the world we live in
today was once dark, void, and without form. Greatness is the result of development.
What is Development?
noun
1. the act or process of developing; growth; progress:
2. a significant consequence or event: recent developments in the field of science.
3. a developed or advanced state or form:
4. Mining. the work of digging openings, as tunnels, raises, and winzes, to give access to
new workings, and of erecting necessary structures.
The General Law of Development
The most central truth of DEVELOPMENT is that it is not a programme or policy or
strategy but is a PROCESS of life. Being a process, it is ever present in all societies whether
it moves forward or is apparently stagnant. According to The Mothers’ Society, some
general laws of development include among others:
1. The law that governs the development of the individual, societies, or organisations is
the same.
2. Development is a process, ever present and natural to all forms of life.
3. Development is not a programme or strategy or even a policy.
4. Being a process of the whole, development cannot be fully understood in a partial
sector.
5. The process of development starts with the release of energy which when turned into
force by direction and organised into power yields the desired result.
This process of development embraces all general laws of life like: 1) one moves to the next
plane when that plane is saturated with achievement, 2) life begins to decay when growth
stops. < http://www.motherservice.org/node/103>
Here are some basic principles of the Law of Development:
1. Development Is a Product of Change And / Or Growth.
John Maxwell says, “Change is inevitable; growth is optional.” Everything living will
encounter change. Change is the result of demands placed upon us that require something
different. Our bodies change as a result of nature, organizations change as a result of its
internal and external demands, even our minds change as we gain awareness.
On the other hand, growth is different. Growth is the intentional result of following a
process and learning from the demands that cause us to change.

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2. There Is a Process to Every Personal Development.
This process is designed to refine us; to bring out the desired end result. In the process is
where we identify strengths and overcome weaknesses. It doesn’t matter if it’s improving
your golf swing or parenting a child with behavioural issues, there is a process to our
development. Identify that process and stick to it.
3. The Development Process Is Where Theory Meets Practice.
When it comes to personal growth, there are as many theories as there are teachers. Theories
that we learn can be anything from visualization to psycho-analysis. While each theory may
have a different practical application, the development process remains the same: PLAN –
DO – REVIEW!
 Planning requires identifying the actions steps it will take for you to obtain your goal
and assessing what it’s going to cost you.
 Doing is implementing the plan. Here is where the rubber meets the road. It is a
place of discovery. Here is where we discover our strength and gifts, our limitations
and barriers, our commitment to change, which associates are good for us, and a host
of other valuable self-awareness issues.
 Reviewing requires taking an honest look at your results and making adjustments
for improvement.
4. Never Circumvent the Process in Order to Make Progress.
It’s easy to be tempted to skip steps in order to advance quicker, especially if you are like me
and feel you have lost ground over the years. But don’t do it. If you do, it could result in a
less than desirable end result. When it comes to personal development the end doesn’t
justify the means. The process is just as important as the product!
5. Every Process Has a Struggle Embedded in It.
The struggle is designed to identify your determination and resilience level. How bad do you
want it? What will you do when you run into barriers? Will you quit or will you finish strong?
The struggle is also designed to build your strength and give you the experience you need to
soar in life. There is a story of a child who came across a butterfly struggling to exit its
cocoon. Wanting to help the butterfly, the boy carefully widens the opening in the cocoon
which resulted in the butterfly exiting it with an enlarged body and deformed wings. As it
turned out, the butterfly needed the struggle of breaking out of his cocoon in order to spread
the fluid from its body to its wings. Because it was robbed of the struggle, the butterfly never
developed to its full potential.
Never run from the struggle as it is an important part of your development. Although your
struggle may be painful, you still need it. When you understand the purpose of pain in the
struggle you will know it is for your development not your destruction. Every struggle
avoided is a missed opportunity for growth.
6. Development Requires Patience.
Patience is the payment of time in the process of development. Time is one of our most
precious commodities and true development requires a lot of it.
“Let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking
nothing.” James 1:4.
From the perspective of time, personal development is expensive, but it is well worth the
cost.

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Vision Management for Next Level
“Then the Lord answered me and said, ‘Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may
run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time. But at the end it will speak, and it will
not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come. It will not tarry.’” Hab. 2:2-3
For many people who made a New Year’s resolution, it’s not uncommon that those resolutions are
long forgotten before the year breaks into two. Personal resolutions are great and are imperative for
growth and development. However, there is a difference between a personal resolution and a vision
from God for your life.
What Is the Source of Your Vision?
The source for the vision is a key to its sustainability. In essence the power to keep a resolution that
you made is based upon you, whereas the power to fulfill a Godly vision is based upon your faith in
God. God gives us a vision in order to develop faith and trust in Him (Genesis 31:11-13) and receive
direction and discipline from within (Proverbs 29:18). The prophet Habakkuk gives us instructions
on how to manage a vision from God.
1. Write It Down.
In order for a vision to be effective it must be captured in time and space; we accomplish this by
writing it down. Writing the vision helps us to “make it plain” or give it clarity. Where there is clarity
of vision then there is acceleration toward the known goal. It’s like driving in the fog. Even though
we may know where we are going we slow down because our vision isn’t clear. Once the fog is lifted
we accelerate.
A clearly written vision helps lift the mental “fog” in your life. Writing the vision also protects it. Life
has a funny way for changing things we didn’t intend on changing. Writing your vision protects it
from being reshaped by life’s circumstances and situations. We have a natural tendency to alter our
capacity based upon our experiences. When God gives you a vision, He seldom takes account of your
experiences. A man’s experience can literally change what he sees. A vision written down will not
lie to you, nor let you lie to yourself.
2. Read Your Vision Often.
The second thing we must do to manage vision is to reference it daily. The scripture tells us that the
vision will speak to us. Daily reference allows the vision to imprint a picture on the canvas of our
imagination causing us to dream about it, and be influenced by it as well. Once it is internalized, it
speaks to our core.
This is crucial because once the mind accepts something as important it goes to work subconsciously
to bring it into your life. It attracts to you everything you need to bring that vision to pass. This
principle is just as effective for the millionaire as it is for the drug addict. If you can see it on the
inside, eventually you’ll see it on the outside.
3. Be Patient but Don’t Be Docile.
Finally, the vision helps develop patience as we wait for it. Patience is a perfect work that causes us
to be in control of our mind, will, and emotions and brings about no lack in our lives (James 1:4,
Luke 21:19). On the same token you have to take action. Put a plan in place that requires you to do
something.
4. Always Keep Your Vision in Motion.
So, take some time to review the vision God has given for your life. If you have no vision, began to
seek God for His divine plan. Once you receive it, make sure you manage it properly for if you so, it
will surely come to pass.

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MODULE 2:
WHY SELF-DEVELOPMENT IN CHRISTIANITY?
Text: Rom.12:2, John 1:12
The question everyone has asked me as Christian Personal Development Coach is: Aren’t
Christians supposed to be Christ Centered? Many has professed this: “I thought that Self-
Development teaching was self centered instead of Christ centered, so why engage in it?”
Firstly, take a look at what true wholesome self-development really is by considering
Personal development in God’s way. Reading from Romans 12:2, Apostle Paul says: “Do not
be conformed to this world, but continually be transformed by the renewing of your
minds so that you may be able to determine what God’s will is – what is proper, pleasing,
and perfect.”
What does this verse have to do with personal development? Firstly, the biggest
contamination in this world is the negative words that are spoken and thought. (Take a look
at Genesis 6:5). You might be thinking of “evil” or “rebellion against God” or even
“dishonouring God” – yes, all of these answers are true. But the very heart of these answers
could be summed up in two words: – Negative Words.
Secondly, what exactly is being conformed to this world means? A popular definition of “this
world” is the material things, but in fact – God is more interested in what you have in
your HEART than what you have in your home. To really understand this concept let’s take
a look at the “normal” priorities of “this world”:
1. Self - what can I get out of living. The top priority of most people’s minds is self.
2. Negative – the most popular trend of this world is negative.
Remember in today’s world, what sells more in movies, books, news, TV shows? Negative or
bad news! What are the headlines that are always glaring at you from the magazine rack as
you by the supermarket checkouts? Violence, scandal, gossip — negative! What is the main
topic of the conversations you hear when you approach a group of co-workers in the office,
factory or restaurant? – Negative!
What is Christian Personal Development [CPD]?
Personal Development as defined in the world is deficient as these definitions failed to add
the God factor which is understandable because they defined only personal development
from world view.
Christian Personal Development is therefore a process of allowing God and His principles
to guide your conscious pursuit of personal growth through the expansion of self-
awareness and knowledge, the improvement of personal skills and the development of
others.
Moses’ personal development from his fumbling start with God in Exodus 3 and 4 to
becoming one of the world’s most effective leaders and servant of God could only be possible
because he allowed God and His principles to shape him.

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The personal development of a creation will not be complete or adequate without the input
of the creator. God is our Creator, only He can effectively help us to develop adequately.
It is Your Responsibility. Your personal development is really your personal responsibility.
God told Abraham when He was giving him the Promised Land, God said “as far as your eyes
can see, that I have given you”. Abraham had responsibility to get out of his tent, get on the
top of the highest mountain on a sunny day so he could have a clear view and then look
northward, and then southwards and then eastward and then westward. That was one of the
things he did and reaped the reward of the Promised Land.
You need to take the responsibility to find out and acquire the relevant information for the
path God has chosen for you either in ministry or career and focus on it. Become a lifelong
student and have desire to learn things that will improve your skill in any field of endeavour,
be it ministry, marriage, planning or anything that will position you for greatness. Some
tools of responsibility include studying, diligence, & fighting for what you believe and desire.
Therefore, “self-development” teachings in its purest form is all about renewing your mind
and training yourself to become the champion you were born to be.
❖ It is about finding the seed of your destiny that God put in your heart and then
watering this seed.
❖ It is about taking responsibility for the free will that God has given you and using that
free will to be your best for the benefit of others around you.
❖ It is all about learning to really make a difference in the lives of others. This includes
learning to really put God and others first in your mind and heart.
❖ It is about creating a positive mindset that will be able to contain the blessings of God.
This is how you learn to walk in abundance and success.
❖ It is about learning to focus on positive faith building thoughts that will attract
blessings. A positive mindset has room for blessings while a negative mindset is not
able to receive good things.
This means that as long as your mindset is negative, you will be missing out on a lot of what
God really wants to give you. Remember Jesus talked about old wineskins not being able to
contain the new? (Mark 2:22). Christ centered motivational and self-development
teaching is all about creating the new wineskins that are able to carry the new wine.
It’s not Evil to Care for Yourself
I am sure that you have taken a trip somewhere in an aircraft. When you watch the
demonstration that shows you what to do when the oxygen mask comes down, what do you
notice? You are told: “Fix your OWN mask FIRST, then attend to your children.
In the same way, you need to get your OWN life SECURED and on track to reach your
highest potential and then you will be better equipped to support the lives of others.
The Key Issue Is Your Heart Motives.
Whatever you do in life can be done with one of three main motives:
❖ Self-centered- your only interest would be to create value for yourself.
❖ Others-centered - your genuine focus is to bring value to the lives of others.

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❖ God-centered - your motive for what you do is to please God, and very often this is
combined with being “others-centered”. (Note the two main commandments that
Jesus gave us in Mark 12:29-31. We are to love God with all our hearts and others as
ourselves).
So, the bottom line is that it has everything to do with your heart motive. A truly wholesome
plan of self-development training followed with the motive of being your best for God and
for others can only enhance your Christ centered life. The top 5 reasons for submitting
yourself to a self-development training program are:
1) To renew your mind. - Remember what Paul commanded us to do in Romans 12:2.
2) To learn to walk in the abundant life that Christ purchased for you. This means you
learn to walk in faith which is the biggest thing you can do to please God – Hebrews
11:1.
3) To learn to add value to the lives of others around you and with whom you come in
contact every day. (This responds to the second commandment found in Mark 12:31.)
4) To learn to live a disciplined life. A disciplined life becomes a successful life. The first
command that Jesus spoke (as recorded in the Gospels) was: “Follow Me”. A follower
of Christ is known as a disciple or disciplined one. Now this does not mean that
everyone who walks in discipline is a follower of Christ, but it DOES mean that
everyone who truly follows Christ walks in discipline.
5) To learn to war against the negative influences of this world. The enemy has given
himself the task of destroying this world using every negative influence he can throw
into this world.
Remember, Jesus said that a kingdom divided against itself will fall. Why is it that so many
Christians don’t seem to get their prayers answered, or are so often defeated in the battles
of life? Could it be that they are divided? Their mouth speaks one thing (positive words) as
they pray, yet their minds are thinking words of fear and doubt.
One of the great reasons for submitting to the disciplines of Self-Development training
(sometimes called Personal Development), is to learn to:
• To become laser focused on your dreams.
• To leave no room for doubt and fear in your mind.
Once you’ve learned to become laser focused on your dreams (which God has put in your
heart), you will find it easier to pray and study the Bible without your mind running off on
tangents.
In a nutshell:
• A daily program of personal development will help you to train yourself to be a
disciplined warrior.
• A disciplined warrior always looks to his captain! (So, when you apply self-development
training to your life it does NOT mean you are not Christ centered, in fact it will help you
to be MORE Christ centered).
• God needs disciples (disciplined ones) and warriors. Are you ready to REALLY get
trained to become the person God created you to be? Then, you’re in the right meeting
place. Why? This is because sustaining the next level is akin to crossing the Jordan river.
Crossing the Jordan represents: MORE WORK, MORE FAITH and MORE
COMMITMENT!

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MODULE 3:
KEY ISSUES IN CHRISTIAN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
Text: Hebrew 12:1-2 – Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of
witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us
run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and
finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising
the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Introduction
Personal development field and the Christian faith have so much in common than any of us
could ever imagine. A thorough research that has taken me to many resources has reveal
some key issues required for any Christian to take to heart as he/she desire to pursue
Christian personal development and growth.
Itemised below in no particular order are the ultimate key issues on self-improvement guide
that will help you achieve the peace, balance and happiness that you are looking for in your
Christian journey while sustaining the next level.
1. Find Your Mentors
You need to have good teachers to grow in life. Learning from these teachers expands your
knowledge, opens up your mind to new possibilities and lets you avoid painful mistakes (at
least some of them.) I will instruct you and in teach you in the way you should go; I will
counsel and watch over you. Ps. 32:8.
The Holy Bible is the ultimate guidebook for self-improvement, sometimes we just need to
put a little more effort into understanding the lessons written in it.
2. Develop Positive Thinking
I often hear about people saying that they are afraid that bad things will happen to them.
They think that they do not deserve good life. They are always expecting a problem jumping
at them from right around the corner. The thing about this people is that most frequently
bad things do happen to them. Various problems do arise in front of them. And their life
turns into a negative snowball.
Negative attitude never does anything good for you. If it’s difficult for you to believe that you
do deserve only great things in life then you should listen to this: “For I know the plans I
have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give
you hope and future.” Jer 29:11. You have no reason for negative thinking in this life, do
you?
3. Harness the Power of Affirmations
If you are at all interested in self-improvement then you probably heard at least 10 times
about affirmations. Some people swear by them and put a lot of effort into creating their
personal affirmations (mantras) that they use for different situations in their lives. They
work, what else can I say?

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However, instead of creating some random phrase you can memorize Bible verses and use
them as your personal affirmations. You will train your brain, find your emotional balance
and grow spiritually at the same time.
4. Take Care of Your Body
Self -improvement tends to relate more towards mental and emotional development. But
how can we say that we are “self-improving” if we continue living with bad habits, neglect
our bodies and destroy our health day after day?
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have
received from God? You are not your own, you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour
God with your body. 1 Cor. 6:19-20.
5. Open Journal for Your Mental and Emotional Health
Journaling is a powerful way to combat stress in life, get through tough periods and clear
your mind in general. Sometimes it is difficult to start this exercise because you might not
know what to write about.
You can start journaling down your prayers. Why not? A prayer is your dialogue with God,
it is the ultimate expression of your feelings, emotions and troubles. Write it down, be
grateful for what you have, ask for support and help in your troubles, open your heart no
matter how big or small your request might be. Do not be anxious about anything, but in
everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Phil
4:6
6. Simplify Your Life
The life of material riches and possessions is empty. The joy that we get from new purchases
doesn’t last but a few minutes (okay, maybe a few days at the most.) Things that clutter our
houses create the same clutter in our mind. They leave no space for spirituality, for genuine
emotions and priceless memories.
Simplifying is the only way to true life balance: financially, emotionally, and physically.
Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied
with his income. - Eccl 5:10. Do you have any doubts about that?
7. Live Your Life with Passion
Isn’t it the new American dream to make money with your passion? There is a guide, book
or course on every corner that promises to turn your passion into a fountain of wealth. I
believe that a lot of people unrightfully cash in on the passion thing and very few actually
give any worthwhile advice.
It is a real gift in life if you can enjoy your occupation, if you can put all your passion into
your work. And it is possible. With faith and a lot of work of course. It is good and proper
for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun […]
Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy
them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work – this is a gift of God. He seldom reflects
on the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with gladness of heart. – Eccl. 5:18-
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8. Persevere and Work Towards Your Goals
How easy is it to give up in life? Very easy. However, you cannot grow if you do not persevere
or if you do not work towards your goals.
Sometimes it’s very difficult to continue: some obstacles may get in our way; our motivation
dwindles and projects look enormous and overwhelming. Of course, you can give up and
choose a different path, you can lose sight of your dreams, you can settle for something
ordinary and safe. This is not life though; it is running away from life.
Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal
to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. - Phil 3:14
9. Develop Your Spirituality
Each one of us can have their own definition of spirituality. While spirituality is a key
element of any religion it is still possible to develop it apart from religious beliefs (it’s not
my way, but it is still a way.) Spirituality and strong beliefs give you a sense of purpose in
this world; they help you fight your fears and work in line with your passion; they help you
discover who you are and grow towards who you want to be.
Spirituality gives you the core belief that you can always go back to and find your strength in
it. But seek first his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as
well. Matt 6:33
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Phil 4:13
If you are interested in growing as a person, improving your life and achieving your life
balance then you need to pick your self-improvement path. The steps that you have just read
are universal but only you can decide what will be the purpose of your life … what will be the
deep core belief that will be pushing you forward no matter how good or how bad you are
feeling.
10. Sacrifice and Discipline
A weight is not a sin but it carries the same impact and consequences as sin. It stops your
development. Sin is the transgression of the law, either human or divine. ‘Sin’ is comes from
an Anglo-Saxon word meaning to miss the mark.
For any form of progression in personal development you will have to give up something to
go up. You have to deny yourself of some temporary pleasure to secure a permanent place in
the hall of fame of achievers. You need to be absolutely sold out to your development or you
will lose your birthright to carelessness.
11. Supervision and Accountability
Anyone that is not accountable is not worthy to be emulated. We live in a world where some
people think they are above the law. Friend, everyone that breaks divine laws will end up
being broke and broken.
Accountability is a function of integrity. A man that hates supervision hates greatness. Jesus
was submissive to the ministry of John the Baptist and the result was that His ministry
gained ascendancy and the heavens opened to Him.

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MODULE 4:
ORGANIZE TO MAXIMIZE WHERE YOU ARE!
Text: Luke 9:12-14, 17.
“When the day began to wear away, the twelve came and said to Him, “Send the multitude
away, that they may go into the surrounding towns and country, and lodge and get
provisions; for we are in a deserted place here.” But He [Jesus] said to them, “You give
them something to eat.” And they said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish,
unless we go and buy food for all these people.” For there were about five thousand men.
Then He said to His disciples, “Make them sit down in groups of fifty…. So, they all ate and
were filled, and twelve baskets of the leftover fragments were taken up by them.”
Introduction
There are very few places in the Bible where we see Jesus, when He walked upon the earth,
was able to minister to everyone’s need in a multitude. In the above passage of scripture,
Jesus was able to feed the entire crowd because He organized them in groups of fifty. He
operated under the principle of organization. Beloved, organise or you will agonize!
Organization is a prerequisite to maximization, and maximization summons increase:
 Where there is organization, there is a capacity to do more.
 Efficiency and effectiveness increase.
 An organized room can store more and the items in it can be accessed quicker.
 An organized presentation increases flow and comprehension.
 And an organized thought life reduces stress and increases our capabilities.
God Is a God of Order.
There is no biblical justification for increase where there is disorder. The scriptures clearly
speak against disorder in leadership (Numbers 12), in relationships (Proverbs 6:19), and in
our stewardship (Luke 16:1-3).
Most people don’t want to hear about their cluttered desk, disorganized closet, or
unbalanced cheque-book, but the fact of the matter is God sees and references them to
determine what we are capable of handling before He permits more. (Mathew 25:15).
Many Christians are praying for God to bless and increase them, but God will not bless a
mess! Disorderliness brings confusion into our lives and where there is confusion;
frustration increases and wrong decisions are made.
Commit Yourself to Living a More Organized Life.
Begin today by identifying at least one area in your life that you are willing to organize. Once
you do, here are a few tips to help you get started:
1) Get a plan. In the Gospel of John’s account of feeding the 5,000, Jesus already had
in mind what He was going to do. (John 6:6). He had a plan in mind and so should
you, but make sure you write yours down.

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2) Start small. While in this retreat now, it is inevitable something comes to your
mind that needs to be organized first. Start there, but don’t try to tackle too much at
one time. Trying to do too much at one time can be overwhelming and lead to
discouragement. Organizing one small area and maintaining it is a huge
victory. Small beginnings will lead to big endings. (Job 8:7).
3) You should enjoy the process. Even though it may be a dreadful work,
incorporate something that will make it more enjoyable. Try playing music, listen to
your favourite motivational CD, or invite a friend or family member to
help. Whatever it is, do something to make it enjoyable.
4) Time box. Time boxing is a time management concept used to tackle large or
dreaded task. Instead of engaging in a task to completion, you engage for a specified
amount of time. I like to engage for a specified amount of time with the promise of
a reward at the end of it; say a nice cup of coffee…. When we time box usually it
increases our focus and often we get so focused that we push way pass the time we
initially established. Time boxing is also an awesome way to overcome
procrastination as well.
5) Celebrate the small victories. As you do, you will be encouraged to do
more. Even God said after each day of creation, “It was good!”
6) Make a journal entry today. Explore what areas in your life are disorganized
and ask the Holy Spirit why? You will be amazed at the answer He gives you.
Your Time is Your Life!
Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise
(sensible, intelligent people), Look carefully then how you walk. Making the very most of
the TIME [buying up each opportunity], because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16
One of the most valuable gifts that God has given us is time. One reason why is because time
is directly equated to your life. That’s why every second of your day is a precious and should
be cherished. When you are unwilling to protect and cherish it, you actually sabotage one of
the master keys to successful living.
Make the Most of Your Time.
The above scripture indicates that we make the most of our time not just by being productive,
but by seizing opportunities. Now we all know you can’t take advantage of every opportunity
under the sun, nor should you try. However, the opportunities that God gives you to improve
your relationships, health, and earning potential through personal and spiritual growth are
all captured by the investment of time.
Time Consciousness
I’ve never met a successful person who was not conscious of time, on the same token, I have
never met an unsuccessful person who was. As a Christian you are called to be a good
steward. One area of stewardship you should be aware is over your time. You must be
conscious of your time, because you only get 24 hours in a day. However, 24 hours is all you
need.
I have seen people stand in line for hours to get a NaijaBet lottery ticket, yet those same
people won’t sit in class to gain the wisdom needed to create their own wealth. If you are
not conscious of your time you will find the time to chase after pipe dreams, but you will
declare you don’t have the time to pursue purpose driven dreams.

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Time Is the Currency of The Earth.
The dollar is the currency of the United States, while Naira is the currency of Nigeria, time
is the currency of the earth. Time is the currency of life! You have traded time for whatever
you currently have. The probability is what you don’t have you were unwilling to trade time
for. For example, a person may want to lose weight, but they may say they don’t have time
to go to the gym. However, the same person will spend an hour or two watching their
favourite TV shows that night. What they are really saying is they are more willing to invest
their time in entertainment than they are in having a healthier body.
Time Can’t Be Saved, It Can Only Invested.
There is no such thing as a time bank where you can put a few hours away and use them
later. Time can only be invested in the now with an expected end. When you see a man with
a muscular physique, you know he invested a lot of time lifting weights. When you greet a
person with a PhD, you know she invested a lot of time in school. Likewise, a person who
invests excessive time relaxation is probably out of shape, and possibly overweight.
Take Time to Invest in Your Time
Invest your time in improving your time. It will take some effort, but with implementing
just a few small steps, you will find it pays great dividends. Here are a few suggestions you
can try implementing now:
a) Make a TO DO list. Each morning I get up and write down 5 or 6 things that I want
to accomplish that day. It helps me plan and prioritize my day. If you don’t start your
day with a plan to manage your time, chances are someone else will manage it for you!
b) Focus on one thing at a time. Stop multi-tasking. Experts say that when you
switch gears between tasks it takes about 15 minutes to get focused on that task. Often
extreme multi-taskers even suffer from inattentiveness and lack of
concentration. This leads to increased mistakes of which correcting them causes
wasted time and reduced efficiency.
c) Turn off your email notification. Often the emails we get on our smart phones
come at a time we can do nothing about it. When we hear the notification, and can’t
attend to it right away, it takes away energy and concentration that is needed for the
task at hand. Set aside time to check your email when you can respond to them.
d) Don’t get sucked into the social media wormhole. It’s amazing how 5 minutes
on Facebook turn into 30, or reading a couple of tweets turns into a couple of
dozen. The best way to deal with the social media wormhole is to be realistic.
It’s probably going to take more time than you anticipate so don’t engage until you
have accomplished your higher priority tasks. If using social media is not directly
connected to your job, then use it as a reward for completing higher priority task.
e) Time Box. Time boxing as discussed above is a time management technique used to
stay focused and maximize the productivity of free or less time. There are many
different variations of it, but the way I use it is that I set a certain amount of time for
doing a task and I set a reward at the end of that task for myself!
Your focus should not be to finishing the task, but to do as much as you can for the
time allotted. When we do this, you find break inertia and create a focus that
minimizes internal distractions. It is also a great way to overcome procrastination.

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MODULE 5:
DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE HABITS
Text: Luke 4:16 “And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as
his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up for to read.”
Introduction
Habits are powerful. They drive our action. The majority of the things we do on a day to day
basis we do because we have a habit of doing them. You drink from the same coffee mug,
you talk to the same people, and you even watch the same television programs around the
same time. I have found this to be true, you don’t necessarily do what you want to do; you
do what you habitually do. If you could learn to master your habits, you will master your
life.
Our Habits Determine Our Success and Our Failures.
Most successful people make it a habit of doing daily the things that will bring them the life
they want. Habits create diligence and consistency which makes our life predictable and our
rewards sure. Unfortunately, like a dog that returns to its vomit, bad habits have predictions
as well. They destroy our health, our finances, and relationships making our personal pain
just as certain.
It Takes Just 21 Days to Form a Habit.
A habit is formed when a routine has successfully slipped past the conscious mind into the
subconscious where it is stored and triggered without a conscious effort. The only way that
happens is through repetition and discipline. God understood this that is why He
admonishes us to come to Him daily. In order to have Godly success you must make it a
habit to meditate on His word repetitiously until the Word is driven into our subconscious
and you can see yourself doing it. (Joshua 1:8)
Be Intentional About the Habits You Create.
The Word of God is clear that Jesus develop specific habits. Jesus made it a habit of going
to the temple (Luke 4:16); He habitually went to prayer (Luke 6:12); He habitually taught
His disciples (Mark 10:1). He established habits in His life that created a successful life and
so should you.
We have observed from research and experience that good habits can lose their effectiveness
because many forgets the reason behind their habits.
• Doing something habitually can lose its power for good.
• A good habit can become bad when it loses its grip on your heart.
This does not mean habits are wrong, just that habits need to not become an end in
themselves. They must remain as instruments or vehicles to help us accomplish a greater
purpose. Habits are necessary for successful Christian living! Every greatly used man or
woman of God is also a man or woman whose life is one of disciplined habits. The problem
is not with habits, the problem is with forgetting why the habits were formed to begin with.

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Those who have Godly habits
• Daniel had a habit of seeking God’s face three times a day in prayer (Daniel 6:10).
• Abraham had a habit of seeking God early in the morning before the business
of the day’s activities (Genesis 19:27; Genesis 22:3).
• David had a habit of not offering to God that which did not cost him something
personally (2 Samuel 24:24).
• David had a habit of seeking God in prayer at regular times throughout the day
(Psalm 55:17).
• Paul had a habit of soulwinning in the synagogue of each city he visited (Acts 17:2).
• The early disciples had a habit of meeting together each Sunday for preaching,
fellowship, and giving (John 20:19; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2).
• Jesus had a habit of rising early in the morning for mediation and prayer (Mark 1:35).
• The Apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to study and meditate upon the Word of God
(1 Timothy 4:16).
• The godly woman of Proverbs 31 had many habits that brought God’s commendation.
She was habitual in the care and provision of her family.
We will never accomplish all that God intends without developing Godly habits. It will be
extremely difficult to sustain the present level you are with wrong or bad habits. Habits such
as honesty, integrity, and faithfulness should be as automatic in our lives as the sun
rising in the morning. That is the only guarantee for us to sustaining the apex level you are.
Seven Steps That Will Help You Create Good Habits:
Please find below are seven steps that will help you create good habits:
1. Get a clear picture of the end result. (Proverb 29:18) A vision of a better you is the
most powerful motivator for getting started. If you want to eat healthier, save more, or
spend less time watching TV you must see yourself with the end result. Visualization
principles open up the subconscious mind.
2. Develop strong enough reasons why you want the end result. (Habakkuk
2:2) For any goal to be realized it must be captured in time and space. Write it
down! Spend time journaling about why you must form this habit. Explain to yourself
why it is important and what benefits you will receive from it. This food that creates
motivation to get started, and re-motivates when the attack is on.
3. Educate yourself. (Hosea. 4:6) Know your real cost in time and effort to form the
habit. Understanding what it will cost you up front removes the element of surprise.
4. Prepare to be attacked. (Ephesians 6:12) Satan and your flesh will come against you
with reasons not to stay disciplined. Prepare for those attacks with forethought and
planning. You should already have an answer before the temptation arises.
5. Get reinforcements. (Romans 8:28) It is the Holy Spirit’s job to provide us with
help. Call upon Him in your time of need. He will help you.
6. Stay disciplined. (1 Corinthians 9:27) Enforced obedience will keep you through the
distasteful elements of habit development. But stay with it because as you repeat the
behavior it becomes easier. What is easy for you, you find pleasure in it. What is
pleasurable you do often. What you do often become habitual.
7. Continuation. After the habit is formed, it just requires a little maintenance to keep it
strong. If you follow these steps, you will be on your way creating good habits.

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MODULE 6:
THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS
Texts:
ICor.15:33 “Do not be deceived: evil company corrupts good habits.”
Prov. 13:20 “He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be
destroyed.” NKJV
Introduction
Modern psychology has identified a number of relationship dysfunctions they call relational
disorders. Basically, they occur when, through the stain of previous relationships, a person
has trouble relating to others. Some people often find themselves in a relationship that is
very volatile and dysfunctional. When they do, the result can be irrational emotions,
distorted perceptions, and even physical illness. In other words, DRAMA!
I read recently a story of a woman in a dysfunctional relationship who every year she was
getting a major operation. When she left the relationship, she stopped getting sick. So, the
question to ask wasn’t what, but who was the matter with her. There are some relationships
that are so dysfunctional that they can literally cause us to be spiritually, mentally, and
physically sick. Some relationships can be so toxic that it can corrode our financial, social
and intellectual standing.
The Word of God is clear about the power of association concerning our relationships. If
you associate with wise men you will be wise (Pro 13:20), if you associate with angry men
you will be angry (Pro 22:24-25), and if you associate with fools, well…. (Pro 13:20). An
African proverb says, “if you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go with
others.” What a wisdom in words! It was Randal DeHart that touted this: “It is not what you
know. It is not who you know. It is who knows you. that is what counts!”
Relationship Building is Work!
Have you ever wondered why some people have more influence than others? It’s because
they invest more “in” others. Those with influence have built into others through some form
of consistent direct or indirect contribution. Those with the greatest amount of influence
almost always have the strongest relationships.
The key to developing influence is understanding contacts and relationships are not
synonymous. Don’t confuse a database with a sphere of influence. A database consists of
information records. A sphere of influence consists of meaningful relationships built upon a
foundation of trust – a point of distinction lost upon many.
To an astute business people, nothing is more valuable than the quality of your relationships.
Whether you realize it or not, your success in business (and in life) will largely be dependent
upon your ability to not only establish key relationships, but in your ability to influence and
add value to your relationships.
The best relationships are not built on the backs of others, but rather they are built by
helping others succeed. It is by building into others and through assisting others in reaching
their goals and objectives that you will find success.

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The 5 Types of Relationships
There are basically five categories of people you relate to in your life in reference to who you
are:
a. Adders: People who after you interact with them they leave you feeling better about
yourself or your situation. It could be through positive words or maybe just a
radiating smile.
b. Subtractors: These are people who always have some issue or drama brewing in their
life and usually they try to pull you in it. It’s normal to walk away from these people
feeling like you just lost something.
c. Multipliers: These are people that expand your capacity to believe. Their positive
interaction stimulates you to see life bigger than you are actually living it causing you
to dream and pursue those dreams.
d. Dividers: These are people who diminish your capacity to believe. Their perception
of life makes you see things from a sullen perspective. Often their “reality check”
causes you to give up on dreams and settle for the good enough.
e. Zeros: These are acquaintances or place holders in your life that neither add nor
subtract from the sum total of who you are. They are fine in your life until you try to
lean on them for something they can’t give you. Remember, anything times zero
leaves zero.
The Genuine and Profitable Relationship/Networking
There are about 5 things that you can see in a genuine and profitable networking:
• Enhancement - Those that brings genuine enhancement into your life and ministry.
Once you meet a correct man, your life is improved.
• Enlightenment - There will be enlightenment – an eye opening to areas that you have
not known before.
• Encouragement - There will be encouragement, no casting down.
• Edification - There will be edification – building and strengthening.
• Exaltation - There will exaltation - it moves you to the next level.
Three Ways to Handle Relationships
Take the time to inventory your relationships and determine whether the relationship is
making you better or bitter. Classify your relationships and handle them in one or a
combination of three ways.
a. Cultivate relationships with the multipliers and adders in your life. Find the time to
develop and glean from their experiences and stimulate your imagination through
their association.
b. Regulate relationships with the subtractors and zeros. Don’t allow them to pull
something from you that you cannot afford to give, and don’t expect something from
them that is beyond their capacity to produce. Finally, if possible
c. Eliminate those dividers in your life. Identification and avoidance of the dream
killers in your life is the first step to finding out who is the matter with you.

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MODULE 7:
THE GRACE OF COMMITMENT FOR NEXT LEVEL
Text: John 13:36-38
Simon Peter said to Him, "Lord, where are You going?" Jesus answered him, "Where I am
going you cannot follow Me now, but you shall follow Me afterward." 37 Peter said to
Him, "Lord, why can I not follow You now? I will lay down my life for Your sake." 38 Jesus
answered him, "Will you lay down your life for My sake? Most assuredly, I say to you, the
rooster shall not crow till you have denied Me three times. [NKJV]
Introduction
This passage about showed Peter’s avowed promise [or a statement of commitment] to Jesus
when our Lord was bidding the disciples bye prior to His crucifixion. If you read Matt. 26:57-
58, 69-75, you will discover how Peter fulfilled his statement of commitment. Friends,
there’s a Peter in all of us, so don’t condemn Peter, but get instructions for learning!
What is Commitment?
I have come across different definitions on this word. Let’s look at some:
1. The state of being bound emotionally or intellectually to a course of action or to
another person or persons.
2. Commitment is the act of binding yourself to a course of action.
3. Commitment is doing what you say you are going to do, and when you say you are
going to do it.
4. Commitment means showing up and doing what it takes for however long it takes to
achieve whatever you made a commitment to.
5. It is an act or a statement, a pledge or promise which creates an obligation.
From these definitions, we can deduce many things on commitment. Some of
them are:
a. Commitment is at root a personal decision, whether at work or at home. It rests on
three main ideas: giving the best of one-self, going the extra mile, and not
abandoning the situation you find yourself in.
b. Commitment is one of the bases of integrity. A person who is able to make and keep
commitments has learned how to earn trust and respect from those around them,
including themselves.
c. Commitment is the little engine of dependability: without it nothing happens in
relationships.
d. Commitment is the most important factor after a person’s culture. It builds a person’s
motivation and confidence to engage in the new behaviours required by change.
e. Commitment is not won or created overnight. It takes time to nurture it, yet it is very
easy to lose. Why? Commitment is based on trust, and trust is like a glass. Once
broken, it is very difficult to put it back together again without the cracks showing.

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I will like to quote three writers who said something unique on Commitment:
Stephen Gregg says: “People do not follow uncommitted leaders. Commitment can be
displayed in a full range of matters to include the work hours you choose to maintain, how
you work to improve your abilities, or what you do for your fellow workers at personal
sacrifice.”
John MacArthur says, “If you do not plan to live the Christian life totally committed to
knowing your God and to walking in obedience to Him, then don't begin, for this is what
Christianity is all about. It is a change of citizenship, a change of governments, and a
change of allegiance. If you have no intention of letting Christ rule your life, then forget
Christianity; it is not for you.”
Vince Lombardi said: “The quality of a person's life is in direct proportion to their
commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavour.”
How to Know a Committed Christian?
The following are present in the life of a Christian who possess the grace of commitment:
a. They are committed to give God all the glory…Jesus taught His disciples that perspective
both by example and by precept: Phil. 2:5-10.
b. They are committed to love the brethren… John 13:34-35 … that you love one
another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. Love is commitment;
love is a relationship that never gives up. How Should Love Be Expressed? Rom. 12:9-21.
c. They have an unswerving loyalty to God. In our text, Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I
not follow You right now? I will lay down my life for You.” 38 Jesus answered, “Will you
lay down your life for Me? When the time to demonstrate this statement came, Peter
failed. This shows one thing: we should know the difference between promised loyalty
and practised loyalty if we are going to be committed in this life.
The Gap Between Promised Loyalty and Practiced Loyalty.
We must learn to differentiate between: PROMISED LOYALTY & PRACTICED LOYALTY.
There was a huge gap between the promised loyalty and the practiced loyalty as seen
from Peter’s life. Peter, who had so loudly boasted that he would stand by the Lord, failed
miserably. Instead of giving his life for Jesus completely, he tried to save or keep it by
denying Him. And he didn't do it in silence or by implication, he did it loudly with cursing,
and before many witnesses. Oh, what a gory example of who we are in Peter!
Why Peter Failed Loyalty Test?
Four things that made Peter failed the test of loyalty:
a) He boasted too much. First, Peter was too proud to listen to what Jesus was trying to tell
him, and too busy boasting. Luke 22:31-32.

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b) He prayed too little. Peter failed also because his praying was not what it should have
been. First, he was boasting while he should have been listening; and later that evening,
he slept when he should have been praying.
c) He acted too fast. Another reason Peter failed the test of loyalty is that he was impetuous.
Acting without thinking was a perennial problem in Peter's life. (Luke 22:50).
d) He followed too far away. A final reason to Peter's great failure is that he left Jesus' side
and began to follow him from a distance. Luke 22:54 says, "Having arrested Him, they
led Him away and brought Him to the house of the high priest; but Peter was following
at a distance."
Conclusion
The marks of Jesus. Consecration. Contentment. Commitment. Beloved, please take a few
moments to appraise yourself now. Do you have these marks? Do you have just one or two
or none? You cannot develop the heart of service until you are branded with these marks.
Many of our patriarchs who were sold to serving the Lord in their days bore these marks and
they excelled. Don’t ever think you will excel in this life and the kingdom labour if these
marks are not present in your life. One thing should be clear: if you bear these marks, both
the believing and the unbelieving world will notice them and give you due recognition.
Apostle Paul was consecrated, contented and highly committed to the cause of Jesus Christ.
If you are wondering whether this is a good example for a frail life like yours, perhaps this is
the most significant thing we learn from Peter: God can turn a life around when it is finally
yielded to Him.
What kind of a Christian are you? Are you everything you promised Jesus Christ you would
be when you first believed? Are you everything you promised Christ you would be perhaps
more recently, when you re-evaluated your life and recommitted it to Him? Are there visible,
distinguishing marks that show you are a deeply committed believer?
You may need to pray now for God to brand you with His mark!

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CLOSING CHARGE:
FOCUS AREAS FOR SUSTENANCE OF NEXT LEVEL
Conclusively, we can summarise the key areas of Christian Personal Development that will
help to sustaining you at the next level and beyond to cover the following:
1. Increase Your Faith - Be willing to believe that God is real, that He is the Creator, that
He loves you and has a great plan for your life. So….
• Believe that God’s way is the ONLY way to have life and have it more abundantly.
Believe that ALL things work out for good for those who love Him and are called
according to His purpose.
• Believe that Jesus Christ is your redeemer and has cleansed you from all of your sins,
even those you have not yet repented for.
• Believe that Jesus Christ has sent God’s Holy Spirit to comfort, guide, teach and train
you in what is right.
• Believe that you are more than a conqueror over your old life, and can do all things
God has called you to do through Christ who strengthens you.
• Believe that through Christ and your faith, you have supernatural power to allow God
to do incredible things through you in this world, to benefit others.
• Believe that through Christ, there is no more room for fear or regret, only confident
hope and joy for what tomorrow brings.
2. Develop Wisdom - Understand that neither your life, nor anything else in this world
can work without God and His influence. Realize, since God is the Creator of all things,
that not one of your strengths, talents, and abilities come from your own power, but by
God’s power. Know that by living outside of God’s Will, you are vulnerable to all manner
of evil attacks by the Devil, that you could not possibly understand - and that without
God’s grace and divine instruction, your life could be much worse. Don’t ever think too
much of yourself because everything you have is a gift from God. He has the power to
give life and the power to take it away. Never turn away from God. If you remain in the
centre of God’s Will, He will bless and keep you. If you turn away, then you are on your
own.
3. Walk in Love and Trust - Know that our God is the God of Love. Nothing in God’s
kingdom works without love. The essence of your personal development in Christianity
is the “Love-Walk”, and without it you hinder your growth, your abilities, and God’s
ability to work through your life. The love-walk is based on trust, forgiveness, mercy,
patience, and all the other fruit of God’s Holy Spirit. In order to walk in the Spirit, you
MUST walk in love.
4. Renew Your Spirit - Re-ignite the fire of your faith and devotion to God on a daily
basis. Re-establish your communication with God daily and ask for His leadership and
guidance. Remind yourself of who you are in Christ daily, and re-commit yourself to
God’s service and God’s Will, each and every day. Every next level demand NEW YOU!

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5. Renew Your Mind - Understand the battlefield of good and evil is your mind.
Recognize that you must make a habit of re-setting your mind on godly things, and on
your new love-walk of faith. Realize you have authority over your mind, the way you
think, and what you think about. Creating next level results require NEW THINKING!
6. Honour Your Body - Have respect for the body that God has given you. Keep it clean,
healthy, and pure. Remember, your body is the temple of God’s Holy Spirit, and should
be presented as a living sacrifice to God. Take your strength and energy, and use it to
serve others - not just yourself.
7. Control Your Emotions - Remember, you ARE NOT what you feel! Your feelings are
the result of how you think. Fill your mind with God’s Word, and you CAN take authority
over your emotions. You have the power to conquer both fear and anger through the
power of God’s Word - so use it! Give God your sadness and He will give you joy. Give
God your worries and He will give you peace. Give God your low self-esteem, and He will
give you confidence through Christ, your Saviour.
8. Take Responsibility - Learn what God has made you responsible for, and what your
part is in carrying on the good fight of faith. Develop good judgment in your decision-
making. Do what you can do (and should do) and let God do what you can’t do.
9. Build Right Relationships - The basis of our lives is connected to relationships. Learn
how to build a relationship for the “greater good” rather than just your “personal good”.
Learn what it means to serve and how you can be a catalyst for positive change in ALL of
your relationships.
10. Increase Your Knowledge - Understand that knowledge is power, and study is
important. Do not allow yourself to walk through life in ignorance about the things you
need to know, in order to prosper, to serve, and to fight the good fight of faith. It is your
knowledge threshold that will help you solve problems. Dr. Oyewole says, “problem is a
part and parcel of living. Until you start solving problems for yourself and others, you
are not living yet.”
11. Discover and Develop Your Talents - Learn what you are good at. Recognize your
talents as spiritual gifts from God, that are to be used in service to Him and His people,
for His glory. Don’t take for granted what makes you unique and what you can do that
others may not be able to do as well. NEVER be boastful - but ALWAYS be a blessing!
12. Serve God and Others - Understand the summary of our life’s purpose: To Serve.
Learn different ways that God can use you to impact the world and leave an impression
that only you can leave, with the unique qualities, capabilities, and strengths that God
has given you.
13. You Need an Accountability Partner – When I teach church leaders, I used to say,
‘every pastor need a pastor’. This is a cue from discipleship where the disciple need one-
on-one with a discipler on regular basis. To develop in all of the above areas, you need
someone you’re accountable to, who can question your actions, words and even
intentions and call you to order.

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REFERENCES USED AND FURTHER READINGS
1) The Mothers’ Society. The General Laws of Development. Culled from
http://www.motherservice.org/node/103 on December 10, 2017.
2) Eston Swaby. Go to the next level. Retrieved on December 3, 2017 from
http://www.biblewaymag.com/
3) Gregory Thomas. Elevation. Retrieved on December 10, 2017 from
http://www.sermoncentral.com/
4) Patrick Weaver. The Next Level Sermon Series. Retrieved on November 23, 2017 from
http://www.patrickwaeverministriesblog.com
5) Glenn Llopis. Six Unique Ways to Sustain a High-Performance Mentality. Retrieved
on September 28, 2017 from http://www.forbes.com/sites/glennllopis/2012/01/17/
6) Oyewole O. Sarumi. [2013]. The Effective Minister – A handbook for a Pourer of
Water in Ministry. JesusLifestyles Books & Publications, Lagos. Pg.7-32.
7) Oyewole O. Sarumi. 2006. Developing Effective Habits. JesusLifestyles Books and
Publications, Lagos, Nigeria.
8) Oyewole O. Sarumi. 2016. Nuggets for Christian Personal Development. A
Conference Module produced for MFM National Ushering Conference, Prayer City,
Ibafo.
9) Commitment to Faith, Work and Life. 2017. Church Leadership Seminar Series 2075
organized for RCCG, He Reigns Assembly, LP21, Lekki Area 2, Lagos.

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Pastoral Leadership Institute Short Courses – 2017
S/No COURSE DESCRIPTION FOR WHOM
1. Improving Workforce Effectiveness All HODs and Church Workers
2. Fundamental Skills for Ministerial Effectiveness Pastors, Head of Churches and Ministers
3. The Competent Pastors’ Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches and Ministers
4. Strategic Church Management Workshop Pastors, Ministers, HODs & Senior Workers
5. Building A High-Performance Workforce Ministers, All HODs and Workers
6. The Complete Ushering & Protocol Officers Workshop Ministers, HODs, Senior Workers, Ushers &
Protocol Staff
7. Preventing Your Church from Decline Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches, Ministers & HODs
8. Effective Youth Pastors’ & Young Ministers’
Workshop
All Youth Pastors, Young Ministers, Assisting
Pastors, Youth Church Coordinators
9. Effective Pastoral Planning & Finance Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches & HODs, Ministers
10. The Effective Church Management Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches & HODs, Ministers
11. Making Your Church Bigger & Better Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches & HODs, Ministers
12. Pastoral Leadership Masterclass Pastors, Head of Churches & Senior Ministers
13. Pastoral Leadership Relationology Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches & Senior Ministers
14. The Complete Ministers’ Workshop Pastors & HODs, Ministers & Senior workers
15. Effective Biblical Church Funding Workshop Pastors, HODs, Ministers and Workers
16. Improving Ministerial Effectiveness Pastors, Ministers & HODs,
17. Building a Healthy and Strong Church Pastors, HODs, Ministers & Workers
18. Developing An Hospitable and Generous Church Pastors, Head of Churches & HODs
19. The Disciplines of Pastoral-Ministerial Leadership Pastors, Head of Churches & HODs
20. Attitudinal Change for Transformation in Ministry Pastors, HODs, Ministers and Workers
21. Effective Church Financial Empowerment & Mgt. Pastors, Head of Churches & Ministers
22. Effective Evangelism Strategies for Today Pastors, Ministers, HODs & Workers
23. Attracting & Retaining Visitors/Old Members into
Your Church
Pastors, & HODs, Ministers and Workers
24. Planting Viable and Healthy Church Workshop Pastors, Ministers & Workers
25. Creating Value-Based Leadership in Church
Organisation
Pastors, Head of Churches, Ministers HODs, &
Workers
26. The Effective Organisation of Sunday School Pastors, Ministers, HODs & All Workers
27. Building A Disciple-Making Church Seminar Pastors, Ministers HODs & Workers
28. Sexual Wholeness For Life and Ministry Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches, Ministers & Wives
29. Attracting and Retaining Men into Your Church
Seminar
Pastors, Head of Churches, Ministers HODs, &
Workers
30. Avoiding Pastoral Burn-Out in Life & Ministry Pastors, Head of Churches, & Ministers
31. The Complete Pastors’ Wife Workshop All Wives of Pastors, & Female Ministers
32. Building Healthy Churches Through Effective
Discipleship
All Pastors, Ministers, HODs & Workers
33. The Comprehensive Assessment Tools for Ministry
Effectiveness
Pastors, Head of Churches & Ministers
34. Great Leadership and Life – Long Learning Pastors, Ministers HODs & Workers
35. The Power of Healthy Leadership in Churches Pastors, Head of Churches & Ministers
35. Making Small Church Bigger & Stronger Workshop Pastors, Ministers HODs & Workers
36. Building A Vibrant Small Group Culture Workshop Pastors, Head of Churches, Ministers & Wives
38. Leading Your Church Effectively for Greatness Pastors, Head of Churches & Ministers
39. Effective Community Relationship Devpt & Mgt. Pastors, Ministers, HODs, Workers & Members
40. Building Healthy Relationships In life & Ministries Pastors, Ministers, HODs, Workers & Members
41. Breaking Community Barriers for Church Growth. Pastors, Ministers, HODs, Workers & Members
42. Building the 21st
Century Church Organisation Pastors, Ministers, HODs, & Workers
43. Church Administration – How to Run Church Office Pastors Assistants, Secretaries, Treasurers etc.
44. New and Strategic Approaches to Effective Evangelism
in Our Churches
Pastors, Ministers, HODs, & Workers & Interested
Church Members.
45. Taking Your Church to the Next Level Pastors, Ministers, HODs, Workers & Members
46. Financial Integrity & Accountability in Churches and
Ministries
Pastors, Ministers, HODs, Workers.

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47. Building a Strategic Outreach Ministries Pastors, Ministers, HODs, Workers & Members
48. Developing Healthy Habits for Effective Ministry Pastors, Ministers, HODs, & Workers
49. Organising Effective Prayer Ministry Pastors, Ministers, Prayer warriors/coordinators.
50. Creating Richness & Attraction for Sunday School
Ministry
Pastors, Ministers, HODs, & Workers & Interested
Church Members.
OTHER NECESSARY INFORMATION
VENUE: LCCI Conference Centre, CBD, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.
DATE/TIME: Saturdays by 9.00am-4.30pm.
TOOLS: A folder with all Modules and Seminar Resources, A book on leadership/church
Works, writing materials, tea-break and lunch.
TAKE HOME: A certificate & an enriched learning experience that can be practicalised immediately
in your life and churches.
NOTE: We can organise any of these courses in your Church to suit individual ministry needs.
PLEASE CONTACT US IF ANY APPEAL TO YOU!!
REGISTRATION PROTOCOLS:
Contact us to book in advance for any of the above courses at least a week before the meeting.
Then pay the necessary fees to ZENITH BANK, Acct No.1012885708 in favour of
Leadership Management Services Ltd - one week before the course with full names of selected
participants, phone nos. & teller no. sent to – 0818 648 9589, 0708 306 3146, and or to
Email: leadershipmgtservice@gmail.com OR pastorral.leadershipinstitute@gmail.com

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