The power of uniformity is based on the development of consistency, invariability, stability and the regularity that characterizes leadership.

These four words are the defining qualities of uniformity.

Our leadership must demonstrate the consistency of a life lived according to the message believed and proclaimed. Hypocrisy destroys leadership more quickly than anything else.

The invariability of leading without fail and without exception is critical to the success of strong leadership. No matter what the cost, invariably, leaders will show up.

Of all the qualities that describe uniformity, followers need leaders with stability. There is something significant about a rock solid foundation. Stability provides followers with security.

The quality of regularity is demonstrated by a leadership that is fixed, unchanging, and unvarying. There is power when leaders provide regularity. When others can count on their leader, they follow…anywhere.

Uniformity is key to leading as God would have us lead today. While there may be challenges to the development and fulfillment of these qualities, when we do so, our leadership grows stronger and lasts longer.

“It takes a village to raise a child.” Regardless of whether we agree or disagree, one thought is clear, each part is connected and contributes value to the development of the whole, including our leadership.

Followers need leaders and leaders need followers. Within this dynamic, each relies on the other to fill specific gaps that develop greater relationships.

God designed the church with the same understanding. Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12 guide us to see that the church consists of numerous individuals who possess a variety of gifts. One gift is not greater than another, one person is not more valuable than another, and the proper function of the whole requires each to exercise their ability accordingly.

Consider what would happen if every person focused on using their ability in this way, not measuring themselves by others, or striving to be someone else, or criticizing others because their ability is perceived as greater.

We might just provide an atmosphere that invites others to find a place where they belong and can use their abilities to the glory of God.

Isn’t that what God intended for the church.

In times of discouragement, “just keep putting one foot in front of the other” is sound counsel. We know the intent is one that emphasizes the forward progress needed to succeed. Regardless of the goal, if forward progress is made, eventually we will succeed and reach our goal.

Martin Luther King Jr. added intensity when he said, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

The tenacity and determination needed to continue this forward progress as leaders is obviously easier-said-than-done.

Resistance often rears its ugly head. Outside forces challenge motives, decisions, and activities associated with our desire to move forward.

Sadly, and far too often, forces from within can create the greatest obstacles when we strive to lead.

No one is exempt and nothing is guaranteed.

Perhaps this is why MLK’s thought needs to be part of our thinking process. When the vision provides direction, let nothing keep us from “putting one foot in front of the other.”

There is something about being around children that draws out this question. I am not exactly sure how many times I have heard this question, but suffice it to say many!

It is the most difficult question to answer. Yet, children always ask it. They want to know the reasons behind what we say and do.

Of all the questions one could ask, this three lettered word makes a complete question in and of itself.

This question is also one that should be prevalent when thinking about our leadership.

Why are leaders needed?
Why do we need to make this decision?
Why are we making this decision at this time?
Why should we lead?
Why?

We could resolve many issues within our leadership if we could determine the answers to the question…why?

Take a moment to look through the gospel accounts and consider how to answer the questions Jesus asks beginning with why.

Why are you worried?
Why are you afraid?
Why are you testing Me?
Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,” and do not do what I say?

Think about it!

A quick glance at various weather channels indicates a contrast in weather across the country. From East to West and North to South we see snow, sunshine, and hurricane-like rain. These changes cause us to frequently check the forecast for the location where we live.

The meteorologist may not always get the forecast right, but as technology improves so does the accuracy of the weather.

The same should be true of leadership. Wonderful tools are available at our fingertips to improve our ability to lead. However, there are several questions we need to consider regarding our approach to leading with these possibilities.

Are we using these tools to help us improve our leadership?

How are we using these tools to benefit the lives of those who follow?

Do we make excuses for why we are not using these tools, or work to learn how to use them?

One day we will be held accountable for the avenues, opportunities, and tools God has entrusted to our spiritual leadership.

We must not believe we can excuse ourselves by saying we did not want to learn how to use it.

“A ship is safe in the harbor but that is not what it was designed to do.” Unknown

A question came to mind when I first read this quote: What is our leadership designed to do?

We are masters at remaining safe. We long to avoid the challenges, controversies, and confrontations that often accompany leadership.

No one is an advocate of seeking out any of these three, but they will be part of our leadership.

The answer to our question is simple. We were designed to lead. Too often I hear of situations where men are qualified to lead, but unwilling to step up and take the responsibility. Why? Because they feel safe where they are at.

The Lord’s church needs men who are willing to step up no matter how difficult the challenge, controversy, or confrontation.

One day we will stand before God and we do not want our ship still safely in the harbor. Our leadership was never designed for such. Rise up men of God and lead!

Our God has called us to the greatest task on earth.

To endure carries a depth of meaning on several levels. To endure also has a great deal of meaning from a Biblical standpoint. Not only are we commanded to endure, God also encourages us with the benefits that come eternally to those who endure.

From a leadership perspective, it can be challenging to endure. To endure literally involves bearing up under the load. It is far deeper than being patient.

While we are to be patient in all things, to endure takes us to a level that challenges our ability to hold on, and hold on longer than we can imagine.

A couple of thoughts might help us endure when the road presents these challenges.

One, remember the adage; “if God brings us to it, He will see us through it.”

Two, God will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able to bear (1 Co. 10:13).

Three, we must not forget, no matter how difficult, these challenges are only temporary.

With some perspective we can endure, especially when we know our God is in control.

Timing is everything. How many times have we heard this statement or one similar? Yet, it is true on a number of levels.

When it comes to addressing a delicate situation, timing is everything.

When we are faced with making life changing decisions, timing is everything.

When waiting for answers to test results, timing is everything.

When confronting a family member, fellow worker or employee, timing is everything.

God said; “there is an appointed time for everything, and there is a time for every event under heaven.” When we read through the list provided in Ecclesiastes 3:2-8 we quickly learn how true it is that timing is everything.

The next time a delicate situation arises, when faced with a decision, when we await test results, or when we consider how to confront someone else, remember – timing is everything.

If we can step back and think for a moment and ask ourselves, “Is this the right time to continue in this direction?” maybe we can handle whatever life throws our way at the right time.

While examining a few leadership websites, I came across an interesting statement, “The Seven Most Important Words In Leadership.”

The idea is part of Terry Starbucker’s e-book Leadership From A Glass Half-Full: The 5 Lessons You Need To Learn Before You Jump Into The Pool.

The phrase is simply this, “I don’t know and I’ll find out.”

The sad reality is we do not like the appearance of not knowing the answer. After all, we are the leader, right? Leaders are supposed to know all the answers.

Worse still is the attempt of too many of us who try to bluff our way through areas we know nothing about. Somehow we convince ourselves we can smooth talk our way through the discussion. Wrong!

The transparency of acknowledging we do not know something and the willingness to find the answer is critical to great leadership.

First, others already know we do not have all the information, plus they know when we are bluffing. Second, greater credibility and trust is established when we are are honest with others.

Learn these seven words and live by them.