Tag: Purpose

Purpose-Driven Leaders

The reason for which something is done, created, or for which it exists speaks to purpose.

What is the reason for our leadership?
How is our leadership created?
Why does our leadership exist?

These questions provoke deeper thought when we consider leading others.

The reason for our leadership is the cause of Christ.
We create leadership through learning and experience.
Our leadership exists because God planned, designed, and needs His people to change the world.

The worldview of each individual influences their purpose in life. As Christians, we know that our purpose is to glorify God!

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.

Intentionality

Intentionality has powerful implications. Words such as deliberate, calculated, planned, studied, and purposeful are all related.

When leadership is intentional, decisions are well thought out before implementation, mistakes are reduced, confidence is displayed, and steps are taken to ensure others follow the right path.

Intentionality does not guarantee the right decision will be made every time, but such an approach builds on the foundation of solid reasons for each decision.

The need for both secular and spiritual leaders to be intentional in their leadership is obvious. The longer intentionality is discarded, the more leadership flounders.

A Uniting Leader

The uniting agent that makes us one deserves more attention than usually given.

Our common purpose is summed up in Jesus. His blood covers our sins, makes us one, and points us in the same direction.

Consider the implications connected to sacrifice.

First, work harder and more patiently to help others reach their potential.
Second, always speak well of people publicly and address major concerns with them in private.
Third, remember this is not about us, but helping others.
Fourth, our pride is not worth dividing God’s people.

We have a common purpose and the value of maintaining unity is worth the effort.

Perfecting our Leadership…

“Practice makes perfect” is a common expression. The idea expresses the need to do something over and over until the art is just right.

A modification of this thought says, “Perfect practice makes perfect.”

Olympic athletes practice drills, routines, or exercises for hours each day until their skill is perfected. They are dedicated to one purpose, performing for those few minutes without giving way to pressure.

Certain leadership qualities may be inherent, but one thing we know, the ability to lead must be worked on continually.

There must be focus, dedication, diligence, and a steadfast spirit to the one purpose God has called us for, to lead.

Passionate Leaders…

What are we passionate about? Do we find ourselves involved in activities for hours without any thought to the time? What drives our lives?

Howard Thurman said, “Don’t worry about what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

Spiritual matters must breathe passion into our lives. When seeking God’s kingdom is a priority, when reaching others with Jesus is the purpose of each breath, when worshiping God is at the heart of our activity, and when a love for truth drives us deeper into His word, we have the building blocks for passionate leadership.

Leadership Opportunities…

Opportunities are associated with choosing to walk the right path. These opportunities connect to short and long-term planning that help us achieve success.

One of the most important areas to consider involves the tools we carry to assist us in the journey.

Remove blinders. An awareness of our surroundings coupled with a willingness to help is vital.

Avoid distractions. Know the areas that create distractions and learn to avoid them.

Stay focused.
Staying focused on the right path reminds us of the purpose behind our walk.

Spiritual Leadership…

The heart of a spiritual leader has resolve. Consider the following.

Spiritual leaders are determined, unwavering in the decided course of action.

Spiritual leaders are purposeful. Nothing is done by accident. They are intentional.

Spiritual leaders are adamant. They cannot be persuaded or distracted by trivial matters.

Spiritual leaders make the decision of courage when they must lead in moments of fear.

Spiritual leaders are unshakable. Leaders are pulled in many directions. However, they cannot be shaken from their foundation.

Pressure in Leadership…

Pressure has multiple meanings: 1) Continuous physical force exerted on an object, 2) Persuasion, influence, or intimidation to make or coerce someone to do something.

There is no doubt leadership comes with strong elements of pressure.

How do leaders handle pressure when it arises?

The best place to begin is with fervent prayer.

Learn to relieve pressure through activity. Exercise is a start.

Create expectations that are achievable and realistic.

Break big chunks into smaller ones and focus on one at a time.

Never forget the purpose of perfecting us into the people God wants and needs us to be in His service.

Two Powerful Leadership Questions…

Two words with three letters establish the most powerful questions a leader can ask.

The first is why? This question determines the purpose behind decisions made and actions taken.

Why pursue this direction?
Why is this work important?
Why is this the best course of action?

The second is how? Once we know the purpose, we must determine how we will fulfill it.

How will we accomplish this task?
How should we handle obstacles?
How can we get others involved?

If leaders take the time to determine the answers, the path to success is much clearer.