Are you a leader? Do you see the whole picture? Can you tell others what to do and where to go and how to live – the right way?
Some say, leaders are born. I was born as a leader, that doesn’t mean I was a born leader. I was just the first born of my siblings.
As first-born and the leader of the pack, I am instructed in the actions I should take to bring us all together.
“Get your sister’s hand, and help her to the car.”
“Bring me a diaper, please.”
“I need you to set the table, while I cook.”
“You took Geometry last year, go and help you sister with her homework.”
There were times I was left in charge while mother went to the store. Sometimes I was a good leader and played games or told them stories; and, sometimes I enjoyed being bossy with the authority I had to rule.
One time, when I was left in charge, my best friend Cindy and I were going to make a cake for the children to eat. At some point we lost our minds and got into dumping garlic salt on each other.
I thought we had it all cleaned up. But when my mother came home I was in trouble. It seems a little birdie told my mother what had happened while “big sister” was in charge.
Little sister was concerned that I would try to get even. I think she slept with one eye open for days. The fear of my revenge was greater than any consequence I could have inflicted; so, I left it at that.
But good leaders are not born. Good leaders are trained. They understand life with God. They understand how to be in good relationship with others. They understand how to hold a door and allow others to go first. They listen with wisdom and understanding, then ask question, instruct, and advise.
A leader, a good leader knows how to study others. They see the character and integrity of others, and find a place for them to flourish.
When a good leader is in their place they understan that, it is not about glory; it is not about popularity; it is not about class; and it is not about race. It is about educating others in the way of the Lord, and helping them to live a life that is productive and glorifying to the Lord.
A good leader is the ultimate servant.
The plumb line is a good leader’s most valuable tool. Not to measure those under their authority as to their uprightness, but to measure him or her self in relationship to God’s uprightness.
A good leader, knows that she does not know all there is to know, and seeks God in all things before making decisions, or speaking to those who are looking to her for guidance. All the glory goes to God.
Being concerned about being popular is a death sentence for any leader. Holding on to all of the control so that everyone must come to you, will drive you into the ground, as well as those around you. A good leader delegates responsibility according to the ability and integrity they see in others, allowing God to reveal these qualities in those under the leader’s care.
A good leader brings together people for a common vision, regardless of race, social position, economic strength, age, or sex. She seeks the best in everyone.
She doesn’t keep her circle of influence exclusive. Her doors and arms are opened wide. Everyone seeking community she welcomes, knowing some may betray her trust, some may disappoint, some will become like sisters, and all will be loved and brought into the circle of her influence.
“Welcome, Honored guest”, is her greeting at the door.
Because true leadership is the art of serving others.
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I really enjoyed this post. “True leadership is the art of serving others.” Leaders aren’t willing to serve aren’t the leaders that others want to follow. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for coming by Jacqui.
Beautiful,
I love this paragraph:
A good leader, knows that she does not know all there is to know, and seeks God in all things before making decisions, or speaking to those who are looking to her for guidance. All the glory goes to God.
Exactly. God uses the weaknesses to show His power. I don’t need to be strong or be a great speaker – I just need to believe, to work at it, to try.
Thanks,
Blessings,
Janis
Thank you Janis. To God be all the glory
Love this, Di — I’m the bossy big sister too! Interesting you mention the plumb line – I’m teaching through Amos this month and that lesson is coming up!
You make great points about leadership, and they’re on the money. I loved what Jeff Goins said in his post about MLK:
A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.
SO TRUE.
I had not heard that quote before Susan. I really Like it.
I’m the little sister and I always looked to my older sister to lead. She was always the Queen. I was always the one who kept the train of her dress off the ground. I think I would rather be the leader.
Loved your words!
Oh, Vicky that is beautiful. My sister and I would argue,but no one had better upset my little sister. I adore her ever to this day.
What a great phrase, Diane: “A leader, a good leader knows how to study others. They see the character and integrity of others, and find a place for them to flourish.” That really resonated with me today. Leaders SEE people… but not just that, we have to help them take that next step, too. Good reminders here, girl!
There can be not greater compliment than one from My Living Power! Thank you, Laurie! Oh, to have that cup of coffee with you!
Dianne,
This gives hope to so many people who falsely believe that you must be born with a special “leader” gene. God can take someone who feels like a loser and make them a leader! Just consider how Moses, Joseph or David may have felt at one time. In God’s economy, all things are possible!!!
Oh yes, Gina. How many of us have spent years believing less than God’s best? Blessings on You! Thank you for coming by and commenting!