Tag: Opportunity

Four Steps

Reflection, remembrance, consideration, and gratitude are words all leaders should know.

1) Now is the best opportunity to reflect on how we started, where we are now, and what steps brought us here.

2) While reflecting on our accomplishments, remember that God placed us in this position at this time. Let us be faithful.

3) We need to consider the lessons learned. We should also consider those involved in helping us reach this point.

4) Of all the steps, none holds more significance than gratitude. We need a thankful heart that expresses an understanding that where we are is because God has placed us here. Let us honor Him!

Pursue Your Passion

What leaders pursue is determined by the core values of their character. If their character is biblically based, the pursuit is divinely grounded.

The nature of your pursuits is supported by the passionate and driving force in your life.

At times, the direction may not be what you expect, or the most comfortable, yet it must be pursued.

What gets you up and out the door in the mornings? Are you passionate about and willing to give your life to pursue it, or will you wait until the opportunity passes you by?

Leaders shape the future by their pursuits and so will you.

An Approach to Conflict

Understanding why conflict exists is a beginning point. How should we approach conflict?

1) Anticipate conflict. With anticipation comes preparation, and when we are prepared we are better equipped to find resolution.

2) See the opportunity. Imagine the difference in facing conflict when we recognize conflict is an opportunity to improve relationships.

3) Deal with one at a time. At various times, we will face an overwhelming flood of conflict. The best approach is this step.

4) Focus on the objective. We easily lose sight of our objective, and our vision is clouded by the devastation of the conflict. Focus!

Developing Leaders

Imagine the simplicity of following the most basic of mathematical equations, like 2 + 2. From young to old, we agree on the answer.

We need a similar formula that can be simplified for the development of leaders. What can we do to simplify the equation?

Here are a few suggestions.

1) Desire: Without this step, leaders cannot be developed.
2) Ability: A system of measurement must be in place.
3) Opportunity: Leadership development is about seeing opportunity.
4) Work-ethic: Hard work is vital to our success.
5) God: Without God, where are we leading?

These steps are foundational for a successful journey in developing strong spiritual leaders.

Learning to Lead

A learning leader is open to learn from others, listening to what is said and how it is said. They constantly seek ways to improve who they are, what they are, and how they lead others.

When leaders are open to learn, opportunities abound for obtaining wisdom from others who have a depth of knowledge and experience that exceeds our own.

When leaders approach each situation with a learner’s heart, they demonstrate humility that understands the necessity of being a servant.

No leader will ever know everything, but when leaders are willing to learn they find greater influence.

Opportunity for Development

Leaders often experience times when events escalate and are seen as distractions or hindrances to their leadership development.

Is it possible God is opening doors of opportunity for us to grow and develop in our leadership?

Consider these questions.

Do we really believe God’s power is unlimited?
Do we believe God can do far more than we ask or think?
Can we get excited about how He will use the power within us to accomplish His purpose?

We have tried things on our own for too long. It is time to trust in God’s power and prepare ourselves to do His work.

A Season for Leading

We all sense a change in the season.

Changes in the season indicate the value and beauty of variety and the lesson for leadership is important.

Everyone has a preference connected to the style of leadership they like to follow. There is, however, value to recognizing the benefits of a variety. A variety in leadership style can…

  1. Provide different perspectives.
  2. Eliminate limitations for growth.
  3. Encourage creativity among followers.
  4. Increase the opportunity for leadership development.

The message in our leadership does not change, but the style / method by which we approach that message may need a change of season.

Blessed Opportunity…

Of all people, why were you and I blessed with the opportunity to hear the Gospel when so many in the world have never heard it at all?

Maybe this is the first time we have considered this question. However, we need to recognize the responsibility that comes with the opportunity.

Should we keep it to ourselves? Can we really go through each day without considering the numbers of those who walk through life unaware of what awaits in eternity?

As Christians, we are blessed among people. This blessing is meant to be shared, leading others to a hope in something beyond.

Photographic Leadership…

Each day we have an opportunity to live on the stage of life. Others witness every move and word. Images are embedded in their minds, just like a photograph. They remember these images and the impact left by them.

We do the same with others. We need to ask, “What would the photograph others take of us look like?”

Think about the words of David Nicholls, “I want to live life in such a way that if a photograph were taken at random, it would be a cool photograph.”

We may only have a moment for others to take that perfect picture that changes their lives forever. What will it look like?

Lead Like A Champion…

Every athletic team longs to be crowned “champion.”

The amount of effort given and money spent to finish a champion at a professional level is beyond comprehension.

However, our influence as leaders provides an opportunity to be a champion for someone. What kind of champion is up to us?

The influence of true champions will not be seen with a touchdown, home run, three-point shot, goal scored, or crossing a finish line.

True champions are formed through the acts of kindness, grace, and love. A bed, a home-cooked meal, a drink of water, a smile, a word of encouragement, or a helping hand, are all key components to being a true champion.