Ezra 8:16  “So I sent for Eliezer, Ariel, Shemaiah, Elnathan, Jarib, Elnathan, Nathan, Zechariah, and Meshullam, who were leaders of the people. I also sent for Joiarib and Elnathan, who were men of discernment.” (NLT)

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Use all of the brains you have, and all you can borrow. 

This is wisdom. Ezra knew his limitations. He also knew what he needed. He knew, additionally, where to turn for what he needed to complete the mission before him. He did not, as some like to do, build the airplane while he was flying it. 

Who do you need in your life to help you succeed? Who can help you walk closely with God and honor him with your work?

Everyone needs a mentor, someone who has been there, done that, and understands how to help you start, continue, and finish well. 

Everyone needs a counselor to help untie the knots of the past.

Everyone needs a coach who can ask the right questions to help them live their purpose and plans. 

Everyone needs a teacher who can provide essential instruction.

Everyone needs a friend to celebrate the wins and commiserate with the losses. 

Everyone needs a family who provides a place to belong wherever you may be in your journey.

Your Group of Six (or More) helps you plan ahead, execute plans, take corrective steps, and begin again more intelligently. They keep you focused when you want to give up. They remind you to rest when you work too hard for too long. They lend a hand when you don’t have enough of your own. They pat you on the back, embrace you appropriately and at the right moments, and remind you as often as necessary that you are not alone. 

Who is in your Group of Six? Who makes up your personal Board of Directors? Who helps you think, assess, and finish well?

Who are your men and women of discernment? 

No one wins alone. Winners know where to look for help and hope, encouragement and focus. 

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I will surround myself with people of discernment who will help me win in life. I will become a friend who helps others win.

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Our Father, thank you for the people of discernment you have placed in my life. I cannot win without them. Make me a friend like this for others. Help us help one another win in a manner that honors you and serves others. Amen.