“Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.” John Wooden

Mr. Wooden is famous for many reasons, one of which is his leadership thoughts that have been used frequently by leaders, especially coaches.

The thought he expresses here speaks to one of the most significant areas of leadership.

We have all seen people with great ability, college and professional athletes, musicians, and others in the Hollywood / Broadway entertainment field. We have also known those with great ability but little character.

Without character, regardless of the ability, it is impossible to have lasting leadership. Nothing could be more true in connection to spiritual leaders.

Perhaps the major difference is the idea of being at the top, because spiritual leadership is about the humility to be at the bottom and to remain humble enough to stay there.

This is where leadership character is built.

When spiritual influence is guided by a humble spirit, character seems to naturally follow. The combination of the two provides the staying power of a Christlike leadership needed today.