I long to lead different.
What does lead different actually mean? Here’s a start…
I long to finish well. I don’t want to be another name on the growing list of Christian leaders who implode and damage many in the process. (John 17:4; 2 Timothy 4:7)
I long to enjoy God and have a thriving relationship with Him. I don’t want leadership to become an idol, my taskmaster or what eventually empties my soul. (Mark 1:11; John 15:5)
I long to seek first God’s purposes and His glory. I don’t want to find myself building an empire of my own. (Matthew 6:33; Matthew 5:16)
I long to be a safe and loving presence who cares for people. I don’t want to accomplish much and have loved little. (John 15:12,13)
I long to empower others who thrive and hopefully surpass me. I don’t want to get so caught up doing leadership that I don’t intentionally develop others. (John 13:1-17; 2 Timothy 2:2)
I long to lead with courage. I don’t want to be crippled by fear or found watering down God’s call. (Matthew 14:27; Acts 4:13)
I long to see many embrace faith in Christ. I don’t want to forget that my leadership is a means to an end—not an end in itself. (Mark 2:17; Matthew 28:19)
Jesus lived every single point on this list and far more. Jesus rose above all leadership philosophies, best practices and latest fads. There’s simply no better example to study and no better leader to follow.
As I launch into a new year of leadership, there’s already lots to do and focus on. But my deepest longing is to seek God’s help to become a more Jesus-centered leader. I long to be led more by Jesus. I long to lead more like Jesus. I long to lead more to Jesus.
What’s your longing as a leader in 2019?
As you seek to be a more Jesus-centered leader, please know that we are cheering you on! In fact, we are here to help you however we can. It’s been our heartbeat as a ministry for nearly thirty years. Why? Because we believe that Jesus-centered leadership changes everything!
Reflection Questions
- What is one area where you want to lead different in 2019?
- What practical next steps can you take to get some traction in this area?
- Whom can you invite to encourage, pray for and challenge you to lead different?
Cheering you on as you seek to lead different in 2019,
Dr. Steve A. Brown
President, Arrow Leadership
P.S. Are you looking to get moving in the right direction with greater focus and clear next steps? Check out our Leadership Tune-Up: arrowleadership.org/tuneup!
