Why do more not lead? One of the top reasons involves the difficultly.
We have all heard, “If it were easy everyone would do it.” Well, it is not easy. At the same time, everyone is doing it. We all influence others. Maybe we should ask ourselves, “How do we influence them?”
For good or evil?
To build on the rock or sand?
To walk in the light or darkness?
To be a sheep or a goat?
To live for Christ or against Him?
It is one tough job, but it is worth the effort.
Light is defined as “a source of illumination.” Light, however, is so much more when we consider what it actually does and what it symbolizes for spiritual leaders.
Jesus claimed to be the “light of the world.” He also said His disciples were the “light of the world, a city set on a hill,” and followed this by saying, “Let your light shine.”
Leaders need to illuminate a vision that is built on faith and trust in God.
Our light should shine forth the example of Jesus as revealed throughout the Gospels. When this happens, our good works are seen in such a way that others will glorify God.
The Gospel of Matthew wants us to pay attention and observe. The genealogical record, activity of angels, fulfillment of prophecy, and the involvement of dreams are all significant to the claim of Jesus as the Christ.
Several terms used to describe the work of Jesus as the Christ include: shepherd, ruler, king, light, and healer.
Another is built upon the name, Immanuel––God with us. The true nature of relationships involves being present.
If God left the glory of heaven to be with us––to shepherd, rule, provide light and heal––then we should also recognize that leading others necessitates our being present in all our relationships.
Who are the fire-lighters in your life? We all have them and we need those who can excite passion within us.
Albert Schweitzer once said, “At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.”
As a leader, we need to light the fires of others.
Who knows, but in that moment when we stop to extend a helping hand, speak an encouraging word, or give the most valuable gift––our time, we make an eternal difference.
People around the world follow someone. Generally, they follow the one that influences them most.
If we reject the responsibility to shine the light of Jesus, who will people follow?
It would seem that the only possibility is the ruler of this world, the one who leads them into darkness.
Are we ready to accept the consequences of such a decision?
Leadership is not an easy task. We are often left vulnerable when we open ourselves up in order to reach out to the world. However, the result of leading others to Christ ignites a passion that drives the future of our leadership, and that of others.
Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth….you are the light of the world.”
Salt and light make a difference when present. The analogy for Christians indicates that our influence should make a difference for good.
Outside of the Gospels, the word salt is used only twice and both times (Col. 4:6; Jas. 3:12) it directly speaks to the influence of our words.
The use of light addresses our conduct (Mt. 5:16). Peter spoke about the type of conduct that contributes to the salvation of others (1 Pe. 2:12).
Let us use our influence (words and conduct) to lead others to Him.
Why do we spend so much time talking about leadership?
Church: The present situation speaks to the need for leadership. Any discussion about leadership regarding the church acknowledges the urgency of this crisis. However, are we moved enough to do something? If we do not establish a plan now, the future of the church offers little hope.
People: The reality is that people will follow someone or something, but who or what? Doesn’t it make sense that we focus on leading people out of darkness into His marvelous light? The church was established to be an instrument of truth and light. Let us lead as such.
Jesus taught about the powerful nature of influence, identifying His disciples as the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.”
Jesus indicates we are to make a difference.
He uses an interesting term, “If the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything…”
This word involves health, specifically good health.
When used in the context of the analogy and leadership influence, we find a powerful idea.
As leaders in the kingdom of God, our influence should be that which contributes to the spiritual health and well-being of others.
Jesus claimed to be the “Light of the world.” He further told His disciples, “You are the light of the world…,” concluding the thought by saying, “Let your light shine…”
There can be no doubt that Jesus planned for His followers to reflect His character, virtue, and example in a world that does not welcome the light and often attempts to extinguish it.
Katelyn Irons challenged us with this thought, “Shine with all you have. When someone tries to blow you out, just take their oxygen and burn brighter.”
For leaders, it’s about leading out of being. The light is who we are, not just what we do.
The value of time is measured differently by each individual, but we tend to focus on what needs to be done next week, next month, and next year.
Life is filled with many activities. As a result, time flies and we wake up one day wondering where the time went.
If light can travel 372,564.8 miles in two seconds, imagine how we can change the world with a few simple ideas.
A smile can warm the heart of one who is struggling.
Consider the power of a hug at just the right moment.
A kind word can encourage success when failure looms.