The past two weeks have been a little rugged and challenging to say the least. Last week one of my team members was put on a final warning and this week, one was terminated. I am about 6 weeks into this job. Even though I know it’s the employee behavior that brought about these circumstances, I also know others will equate those actions with my presence. It leaves me to ponder how to move forward and overcome these hurdles when I am already burning the candle at both ends. I don’t think many people truly appreciate the level of burden that comes with being a leader. And I’m not only speaking to leaders in terms of career…this includes our familial leaders, our government leaders, our teachers, our coaches, our mentors, our spiritual leaders, and truly anyone who have been given the space or platform to be influential in the lives of others. Leadership is a great responsibility and over the past few years, my view on the subject has matured in deed and thought. Here is what I’ve learned…
- Leadership is a spiritual assignment, leaders will give an account to God for how they lead, which should urge them to care for people with integrity and diligence. “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” – 1 Peter 5:2-3.
- Leaders experience moments of weakness too. Great leaders are humble enough to know that the success of their leadership can never be obtained through their power alone. “Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you” – James 4:10. The Lord is the ultimate source of power during times when we know all we have will not suffice. “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” – 2 Timothy 1:7.
- The Bible gives us Jesus as the blueprint for true servant leadership. In John 13, Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, providing a powerful example of servant leadership. In Matthew 20:25-28, Jesus explains that leadership is about serving others rather than exercising authority over them. He said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
When leaders fail to follow these principles, they stifle the growth of those under their stewardship. We feel the effects of this rippling through our communities. If you are any type of leader that is struggling in some capacity, I would encourage you to engage the work of John Maxwell who has a plethora of resources geared towards leadership growth. All of us should pray for the leaders in our lives. Pray that they have wisdom and discernment to know what is right and best for those they serve. Pray that they lead lives of integrity and uprightness, that their hearts be guarded against deceit and corruption and their lives be a reflection of God’s truth. Pray for your leaders to have courage and strength as they face challenges, that the Lord helps them to stand firm in times of difficulty. Pray that your leaders are protected, guided in righteousness and by wise counsel. Pray that your leaders speak out against injustice and have compassion for everyone they come in contact with. Finally, pray that they have clarity of their vision and are humble and accountable before God, submitting to His authority and honoring Him in all that they do!
Hope this has encouraged you to encourage a leader in your life. Have a great week! Who Dat!!! : )
