We live in a competitive world and the number one goal appears to be “winning.” Winning dominates every field of sports. Individuals and teams desire to be winners at all cost. Losing is not an option.

Several years ago the negative impression of losing was summarized in the statement, “Second place is the first loser.”

Nelson Mandela once said, “I never lose. I either win or learn.” Imagine the difference in this mindset. The concept of losing does not exist, but rather learning.

Leaders can benefit from the desire to learn. When we view failure or loss as final or fatal, we miss the opportunity to learn how to improve who we are as leaders. When this mindset exists we can easily fall into the trap of compromise in order to win. We often cut corners, minimize relationships, and view people as objects to reach our own objectives or agenda.

Leaders must view each day, activity, and task as an opportunity to learn. We learn how to improve who we are and what we do for the benefit of the church and the glory of God.

Solomon expresses how the end is better than the beginning.

This can be challenging, at least on a personal level. However, the thought expressed is one that does indicate the satisfaction and joy that accompanies the achievement of the goal.

From a leadership standpoint, Solomon’s statement indicates one of credibility and confidence.

When leaders are able to reach the end of the matter, it is an indicator of success, and success breeds credibility for those who are following.

As well, reaching the end of the matter also strengthens the confidence of the leader. As each victory is achieved, leaders grow with confidence for setting out to accomplish the next goal.

The idea is demonstrated by several individuals throughout the Bible: men like Abraham, Moses, Elijah, Peter, and Paul.

Our leadership will be no different. As leaders reach the success at the end of the matter, they will anticipate the next challenge or goal and work with tireless effort to build upon their confidence to strengthen their credibility for others.

A contrast of counsel is found throughout the Psalms and Proverbs. We are urged not to walk in the counsel of the wicked in Psalm 1. Later in the Psalms David expresses the need to wait for the counsel of the Lord, because His counsel will endure forever.

Solomon claims a wise man is one who listens to wise counsel, and one who possess understanding will acquire wise counsel.

One of the best Proverbs about counsel is found in Proverbs 27:9 where we read, “A man’s counsel is sweet to his friend.”

Leadership should always provide a source of counsel that is based on the word of God, designed to provide guidance to spiritual success and an eternal reward.

When leaders provide godly counsel, several beautiful things occur: 1) Above all, God is glorified, 2) His people are built up in the faith, 3) Leadership is strengthened in righteousness, and 4) The future is secured.

The consequences of not seeking wise counsel can be seen in the life of Joshua (Jos. 9).

Let leaders learn today from his example, then pursue and provide godly counsel.

Observation of the events and people who participate in our lives on a daily basis is one of the most powerful exercises for leaders.

Leadership is about people, and unless we are observing how God works in our lives to provide opportunity to lead, we will miss the possibility of God using us to help others.

An ancient Chinese proverb emphasizes the way to a lifetime of happiness: “If you want happiness for an hour — take a nap. If you want happiness for a day — go fishing. If you want happiness for a year — inherit a fortune. If you want happiness for a lifetime — help someone else.”

Helping others can only occur when leaders observe the people God places in their lives each day.

Leaders must seek to discover what goes on in the lives of these individuals, why it takes place, and how they might show the light of Jesus through their help.

Take a few moments each day to simply observe the working of God through the opportunities provided in the lives of the special people placed on our daily path.

Speaking from experience, few people like the idea of any form of test. Students preparing for their field of work would prefer to skip any and all tests.

However, tests are certainly biblical and spiritual leaders will always face various levels of tests throughout their leadership.

Abraham is one great example from the Old Testament that was specifically identified with the testing of his faith. “God tested Abraham” is how the text begins with the command from God to offer his only son, Isaac, as a burnt offering.

The New Testament also speaks of the testing of one’s faith. James reveals the purpose of this testing is to produce endurance which ultimately results in completeness.

How should we respond to tests within leadership?

Prayer is the best place to begin. Seek God’s guidance and wisdom throughout.

Hold fast to the word of God. Read about Abraham and remember the purpose of tests from James.

Seek the counsel of spiritual and godly leaders who passed tests in their leadership.

Remember to trust God is working to make us into the leaders He wants us to be.