In a Leadership Seminar, I asked participants to describe individuals who had had a significant influence on them. We heard a fascinating description of friends, parents, grandparents, relatives, neighbors and work associates. The influence received by my seminar participants had nothing to do with wealth, position, authority or power: further none of the individuals had any advanced education on leadership. The common denominator of each mentor was a demonstration of God’s love, character and service in their own way.
In his book Spiritual Leadership, J. Oswald Sanders described leadership as, “True greatness, true leadership, is achieved not by reducing men to one’s service but in giving oneself in selfless service to others.” Or, in Descending Into Greatness, Bill Hybels says, “If you truly want to be great, then the direction you must go is down. You must descend into greatness.” Warren Bennis tells us in Why Leaders Can’t lead, “True leaders are by definition both magnanimous and humble.” Christ tells us, “Whoever humbles himself as this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4 NIV)
Why is it, so many Christian leaders have adopted the authoritarian style of leadership? Have we forgotten the character and heart-felt love that Christ demonstrated? We don’t need a title, a position or authority to influence others. We are all capable of being a good friend, neighbor, relative or work associate.
Let’s get practical. Each of us has a sphere of influence. With social media and personal contacts, the number of people in our sphere of influence numbers in the thousands. Our influence is either positive or negative. It is never neutral.
Imagine the impact on our world if each of us would commit to pray and demonstrate God’s love to each and every person in our sphere of influence.
Leadership is knowing every word, decision and action is influencing your network.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group