5 Life-Changing Principles I Learnt From My Dad, Bishop Tudor Bismark
By Pastor Lauda L. Vongai Ndamuka
I am one of the many privileged to have a spiritual Dad who leads from the front and exhibits so many signs of servant leadership. Despite his many accomplishments, my Dad has not lost his sincerity and dedication to his call. Here are five of the countless life principles I have learned from him.
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| Bishop Tudor Bismark, a mentor and spiritual Father to many. |
1. Generational Thinking
One of the most profound lessons from my Dad is to think beyond myself. Early in life, I was tempted to believe the world revolved around me. Through his teaching, I learned that life is bigger than just my personal world. My decisions have a direct or indirect influence on the people I lead and on generations yet to be born.
Responsible leaders build for the future, saving wealth for their children and grandchildren (Proverbs 13:22). Key Bible characters like Moses, Elijah, and Abraham were all concerned with succession and legacy. I learned that how I start and run my race affects how I pass the baton. A generational thinker does not build an empire around themselves; they are team players who live for impact.
2. Integrity
My Dad taught me the principle of integrity, which he defines as incorruptibility, soundness, and completeness. It means being a person of admirable character, decency, and honesty, presented without spot or wrinkle (Ephesians 5:27).
Integrity involves sowing seeds of fairness in all dealings, avoiding unethical behavior, and abiding by the laws of the land and the church. It also means fulfilling obligations, respecting time, and being trustworthy with resources and responsibilities. It is about accountability, truthfulness, and serving without ulterior motives.
3. Fulfill Your Vows
I also learned the importance of fulfilling vows. A vow is a serious promise to do something or behave in a certain way, binding a person to an act or condition (Genesis 28:20). Whether it's marriage vows or business promises, God expects us to keep our word.
Scriptures like Ecclesiastes 5:4 and Deuteronomy 23:23 emphasize that once a promise is made, you are obligated to fulfill it. Not paying vows can lead to difficulties and misfortunes that could have been avoided. The blessing of God, peace, and restoration come as one fulfills their promises.
4. The Spirit of Honor
My Dad says, "The greatest seed that can be sown is the seed of Honor." Honor involves showing merited respect and recognition to seniors, whether through substance or words. Honor comes to those who do good and can even lengthen one's days.
There are several levels of honor, including honoring God (1 Samuel 2:30), honoring parents (Exodus 20:12), honoring spiritual leaders (Mark 6:4), honoring the elderly (Leviticus 19:32), and honoring one's own gifts and anointing (Psalm 8:4-6).
5. Observing Boundaries
Finally, I learned the principle of observing boundaries. These are parameters in life and ministry that must be respected to maintain order and structure. This includes social etiquette and protocols.
I learned that people senior in rank to me are not my friends, even if they create a free atmosphere. Maintaining a boundary of respect puts me in the best position to benefit from the anointing and grace upon their lives. Unnecessary joking and jesting should be avoided, no matter how humble a leader may be.
About Bishop Tudor Bismark
Bishop Tudor Bismark is an apostolic voice to the nations. Since 1989, he has served as a mentor to ministries all over the world. He and his wife, Pastor Chichi Bismark, are the senior pastors of New Life Covenant Church in Harare, Zimbabwe, the headquarters for Jabula – New Life Ministries International. He also serves as the Chairman of the Council of African Apostles.
With a passion to see people empowered and awakened to their God-ordained destiny, Bishop Bismark's message is focused on the empowerment of believers and the advancement of the Kingdom of God on earth.
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