You’re a leader. Yes… you!
John writes this last letter to the church. We see him contrasting a good example verses a bad example of leadership in the church. “The Elder, To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth:” (3 John 1:1). He goes on to say he rejoiced in hearing about Gaius’ testimony of walking in truth. He was a witness of love to those in the church and strangers. On the other hand he openly corrects Diotrephes. “I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, does not receive us.” (3 John 1:9). Evidently, he thought he was more important. He didn’t show hospitality or acceptance of John and other believers connected to John. Diotrephes’ agenda had become more important than the Lord’s.
Jesus told His disciples to not lord authority over people but to serve and love. When Jesus is our center then we will lead well. When we are at the center we won’t lead well. It’s that simple. And guess what, you can’t get out of leading. Wherever you are in life you’re leading in some aspect. People are watching your moves, what you say, and how you react. It’s influential positively or negatively. Your choice!
Influence is defined, “the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone”.
We lead as we live. What will you do with how you lead today, how you will influence? If we say we are believers in Jesus and are found representing something different then we are leading in the wrong direction. May our words, actions, and reactions be leading others to what’s most important…JESUS! You’re a leader… so lead well!
- To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.