Category: Daily Leadership

Extraordinary

What makes leadership extraordinary?

Jesus put together a group of extraordinary men and entrusted them with a message that changed the world.

It was not their educational level, charisma, social standing, economic strength, or immeasurable talent that made them extraordinary.

They were selected because they believed in Jesus as the Christ and they were willing to submit themselves to His Lordship.

We need leaders today who do the same. We need leaders who willingly give their lives to the cause of Jesus, who will stop at nothing to carry out the work entrusted to them (us).

The result will be extraordinary leadership.

Proof

Can you prove your leadership?

The question implies a measure of evidence. To claim we are a leader does not make us a leader. Simply because people follow out of compulsion, does not identify us a leader. Wearing a title does not make us a leader either.

What evidence can be produced to prove leadership?

The proof of leadership may best be determined by answering the following questions.

Do we possess a love for those who follow, seeking their highest good?

Are our goals driven by spiritual or selfish desires?

What determines our decisions?

Examining our leadership identifies both how we lead and the nature of our leadership.

Elegance and Precision

Elegance and precision are not often used to characterize leadership.

Elegance involves grace and style.
Precision is described as exact and accurate.

Yet, these two words should characterize the uniqueness of our leadership.

Jesus epitomized elegance and precision. Every word was exact and accurate. Every demonstration of power was intentional and purposeful.

Spiritual leaders must constantly work to perfect their leadership.

We need to think, plan, and execute with elegance and precision every aspect of leading others to and for Christ. Every word should be carefully chosen. Every action should be purposed on God’s will. Doing so ensures unique leadership.

Sacrifice

To lead is to sacrifice. Sacrifice is found at every level of leadership. When will the sacrifice need to be made? How large of a sacrifice will be necessary?

Perhaps above all, are we willing to make the sacrifice?

If we go below the surface and examine Paul’s leadership, we will find a leader who made great sacrifice. His level of sacrifice is exemplified throughout his writings. He speaks of sacrifices made in the past, present, and future. Whatever it took, he was willing to do.

We could spend weeks considering all the sacrifices required of leaders today. Regardless of what may come to mind, let us arise and make the sacrifices necessary to lead.

God demands it and the church depends on it.

Why Wait?

Do we know what should be done? Why are we waiting to do it? Do we have the ability and resources to make it happen? Why are we waiting?

Souls are waiting. The church is waiting. Our God is waiting.

God has given us the ability and resources to make it happen.

Why are we waiting?

With so much at stake, will our waiting be worth it if we wait too long?

Application generally applies to anyone who delays obedience to the gospel. The same is true for leading.

We need to challenge our excuses. We cannot wait any longer. Paul’s words to the church at Corinth should be remembered, “Act like men.” Leadership will not wait!

Reputation

If the church where you and I attend were to disappear tomorrow, would anyone in the community know? Would anyone care?

Those two questions are chilling and convicting for me. I fear the answers and it directly relates to the impact we have in the world where we live.

Have we become so inward-focused that we no longer recognize the influence the church must have in the community?

Something may just be missing in our leadership and we need to consider what can be done, what must be done to lead God’s people in rebuilding the reputation of the church in our communities.

Unique Leadership

A number of individuals in scripture stand out as being unique. One in particular is Ehud, of which little is written. He was the only judge specifically identified as left-handed.

Our fingerprints are evidence of an all powerful, wise, and unique God. These fingerprints make us unique.

What makes our leadership unique, or is it unique? Is there a unique characteristic, ability, or approach?

In spiritual leadership, we have something unique to offer. Nothing else compares. Spiritual leaders today must think souls. Extend an offer unique and eternal. Read 1 Peter 1:4; 2:9 and rethink the concept of unique leadership.

Servant Leadership

What makes a great leader? Achievement? Financial independence? Educational degrees? Business accolades?

Consider the mindset of a servant leader. A servant leader…

…desires the benefit of others above self.
…focuses on the goal of the whole, not a select few.
…leads with passion and compassion.
…gives more than they take.
…sacrifices willingly and lovingly.
…understands the importance of a good example.
…focuses on every person they meet.
…values every second of every minute.
…follows the greatest leader who was the servant of all!

Leadership and Power

The thought of leadership and power often creates the temptation to use one’s power inappropriately.

It is tragic to read or hear of men who succumb to immorality or unethical business practices. In a moment of poor judgment, when power is abused, character is destroyed.

Consider the awesome God we serve.

Practice His presence… ALWAYS!
Never say or do anything we wouldn’t in His presence.
Remember that any leadership position is given by God.
Develop an open door policy.
Pray… without ceasing.

Perhaps these few suggestions will help us understand the proper use of the power entrusted to us by God.

Describe Your Leadership

We live in a world where we generally communicate with the use of words. Interestingly, what we hear and read is often presented with an incredible, spectacular, and unbelievable multiplicity of adjectives.

What adjective would you use to describe your leadership?

Godly! Spiritual! Righteous! Knowledgeable! Patient! Compassionate! Faithful!

Such descriptive terms have a nice ring. Today, let us strive to lead others in a manner that is described biblically.