Laurie KennedyEver thought about what life would be like as a sheep?

“We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:6 NIV) Each individual sheep, has a herding instinct and a need to stay close to the flock. Closeness is more important than being individual or unique. Follower sheep look to the strongest sheep and don’t ask about their long term plan or end result. They just follow the leader to positive, mediocrity, starvation, destruction or death.

I’ve had the awesome privilege of working for several individuals and Boards who live the characteristics of Shepherd Leaders. The shepherd leader is strong and caring. Note David, “Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear.” (1 Samuel 17:36 NIV) The Shepherd Leader is protective, enduring, caring and dedicated. This leader is gentle and  caring, yet strong.

David illustrated the results of working for the ideal Shepherd Leader. “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:1-4 NIV)

“Shortly before a group of business travelers rushed the cockpit to stop the terrorists who had seized control of United Air Lines flight 93, Todd Beamer led them in a recitation of Psalm 23. Beamer, Thomas Burnett and others would succeed in stopping the terrorists from crashing the plane into its intended target. We suspect that Psalm 23 was more than a source of religious consolation for these heroes. Rather, we believe that the Psalm was a source of courage, strength and power.” (Shepherd Leadership by Blaine McCormick, David Davenport)

Leadership is … the shepherd leader knowing the way, providing care and confidence giving their lives for others.

Yours in Service,

Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com

Jethro Group               

  Serving Leaders