As leaders we all go through life and work holding to past regrets, those disappointments over lost or missed opportunities. We’re sad or repentant over things that we wish we had done differently.
Thomas Paine (1737-1809) was an English-born Founding Father of the United States. An inventor and philosopher, he authored Common Sense, a pamphlet that was influential at the start of the American Revolution.
As Jesus began teaching on earth, His words about leadership and leading were shocking. In fact, they were so at odds with religious leaders of the time, they believed Jesus could not possibly be the Savior they were hoping and waiting for.
On the surface the story of Job may seem a cruel game. A faithful man, he suffers greatly, questions God, and receives God’s pointed response. How should we lead when faced with trials and difficulty?
The key facet of leadership development—that is, investing in others for the purpose of seeing them exhibit excellence through their own lives and leadership—is “baked in” to New Testament teaching.
Faith-centered leaders are challenged in our culture to live by their beliefs. They are called on to accept the ideologies of others that are diametrically opposed to what the Bible teaches. Jesus Himself spoke of this difficulty.
Knowing a person is the first and most important step in leading and influencing them. Isolated individuals make poor leaders, because the objective of leadership is always to grow and develop people.
Are you a model leader? Consider whether anyone should be led by you. What does your leadership experience and execution bring to the table that is valuable and enhances the life and work of those in your sphere of influence?