What will remain in the shadow of our leadership 20, 30, 40, or 50 years from now? Is our legacy as a leader intentional? Will our leadership be a shield to protect and provide for others? What legacy will we leave?
A legacy of money will eventually be spent.
A legacy of possessions will quickly fade.
A legacy of service will soon be forgotten.
A legacy of security will be destroyed.
Only a spiritual legacy influences this present life and the life to come.
What image describes good leadership? Based on many leadership discussions, the canvas would be filled with images of character, service, compassion, vision, and more.
The image of character is a wonderful place to begin.
Character is a choice made by each individual. Wayne Dyer said, “Our lives are a sum total of the choices we have made.” Therefore, when we blend all our choices together, we find a picture of character.
Maybe this explains why Joshua urged Israel to make the choice he made for his family, one of “serving the Lord.” Perhaps, it is the choice we should make also.
Using our head in leading means we:
…think before we speak or act.
…consider the short- and long-term consequences of our words and actions.
…weigh the evidence and ask evaluating questions before making decisions.
Using our heart in leading means we:
…devote ourselves to learning and serving the needs of others.
…prioritize our time toward relationship development.
…risk temporary satisfaction for eternal gain.
If we work to develop and practice a more “others-focused” approach, the future will take on a whole new perspective.
The value of speaking with kindness benefits every level of a leader’s influence. When a word is spoken with kindness several results occur.
The desire to benefit the person is demonstrated.
The value or worth of the individual is elevated.
The fruit of the Spirit testifies to being more Christlike.
The goal of unity is exemplified by serving one another.
The outreach to the world is built on a foundation of love.
Kindness requires us to get our personal agendas, preconceived ideas, desires, and motivations out of the way so our light can be displayed and God glorified.
Jose Marti said, “Talent is a gift that brings with it an obligation to serve the world, and not ourselves, for it is not of our making.”
We all have opportunities to develop our abilities. Through education or experience, we can develop natural gifts and use our talent to serve others.
To use our talent only for ourselves is narcissistic. Do we realize that our talent is not of our making?
Our responsibility is fulfilled by serving others.
Godly leaders illustrate the most significant form of biblical love when they demonstrate this service.