Because God made us all in His own image, we all are leaders. Jesus
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
**************************************
Week 5. Freely you have received
**************************************
Objective: Participants will understand the benefits of having an
empowered inner circle and will draw up goals for empowering others.
Key Terms: Servant Leadership, Empower
Biblical example: Jesus and His disciples. Luke 9:1-2; Acts 6:2-3
(Luke 9:1-2)- "Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave
them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He
sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick."
(Acts 6:2-3)- "Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples
and said, 'It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God
and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven
men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we
may appoint over this business."
Mathew 10:8 - Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have
leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.
Leaders live with the end in mind. What will people say at your
funeral? The things they say will depend on how you live today and the
legacy you live. A leader's lasting value therefore is measured both
by success and succession (e.g. Moses- Joshua). The cycle of
leadership is only complete once continuity is assured.
It is not enough to;
• Lift up leadership lids;
• Seek to influence others through your example and service;
• Set goals and accomplish them;
• Live a life of integrity.
A leader will seek to ensure that these values and skills are passed
on to others through the process of empowerment. Empowerment should
be a deliberate well though out (and covered by prayer) process. The
process of building disciples is the central theme in the charge Jesus
gives to us, His disciples.
Mathew 28:19 - "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy
Spirit…"
Empowering others, which can be translated to making disciples of
Jesus, is therefore a requirement not an option for all leaders. Do
you have a plan for empowering those in your sphere of influence?
As John Maxwell says; "only secure leaders, give power to others."
Delegating is risky business and it is human to want to always be in
control. As a leader however, you need to provide your followers with
the necessary tools and training to help increase their confidence and
ability to lead.
Remember, a true leader is always thinking of how to add value to
others especially to those closest to him. We see this play out in the
relationship between our Savior and His disciples. He sought to build
those closest to Him, always teaching them something new, showing them
how it is done (the law of picture) and providing them the
opportunities to exercise what they had learned.
A leaders potential is determined by those closest to him. If you long
for your ministry to accomplish more, build leaders and strengthen
those in your inner circle for when your strength fails they will take
over. In Exodus 18:17-27 Jethro introduces the principle of delegation
and empowerment to Moses. "And Moses' father-in-law said to him, 'The
thing that you are doing is not good. You will surely wear out, both
yourself and these people who are with you, for the task is too heavy
for you; you cannot do it alone."
Why Leaders Fail to Develop People:
1. They realize that equipping people is hard work.
2. They are insecure or have a poor self-image.
3. They feel they are the only one that is qualified to do it.
4. They don't trust others.
5. They have bad habits and an unbiblical perspective.
6. They have a low belief in people.
7. They don't know how to train others.
8. It is easier to lead followers than leaders.
Different responsibilities require different competence and as leaders
we need to be careful about whom we select for the specific
responsibilities of leadership. In this case, we will need to follow
the pattern laid down by the apostles. They had specific
qualifications in mind for the leaders they wanted chosing men. Acts
6: 2-5 "So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said,
"It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of
God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men
from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We
will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention
to prayer and the ministry of the word." This proposal pleased the
whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy
Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas
from Antioch, a convert to Judaism."
1. Known from their sphere of influence – "seek out from among you."
2. Fellow believers – "brothers."
3. People who could serve on a team – "seven men."
4. Trusted among the people – "of good reputation."
5. Empowered for the task – "full of the Holy Spirit."
6. Competent and intelligent – "full of... wisdom."
7. Responsible – "whom we may appoint over this business."
The Development/Empowerment Process:
1. I do it while you watch. People do what people see. Model the
integrity, dedication to success, spiritual commitment and the
practice of spiritual disciplines. Give what you want.
2. We do it together. Take them along with you to your preaching or
teaching. Get them involved. Let them take risks together with you.
3. You do it while I watch. This is an opportunity to observe and
prepare positive critique if required but also encouragement. It may
also help you identify development areas.
4. We evaluate. Work together to evaluate performance. The goal of
evaluation is to seek to recognize the efforts made and encourage it.
It can also be a moment of correcting mistakes in love while showing.
5. Ask them to empower others. This is what I am asking you to do.
Assignment:
Congratulations on completing this 5 weeks training course on
leadership that endures.
1. Take a moment to write down how this has impacted your life in the
space provided below:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. Write down the names of some people starting with those in your
inner circle, that you would like to empower over the next 12 months.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Have you learned something new? Email us - forteh@gmail.com
Friday, October 13, 2017
Enduring Leadership - Week 4. Integrity as a Foundation
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
**************************************
Week 4. Integrity as a Foundation
**************************************
Objective: Participants will review their actions and set proactive
goals for building a lifestyle of Integrity.
Key Terms: Integrity, Stewardship, Truth, discipline.
Biblical example: Jesus – Mathew 5:8 ; 2 Corinthians 8: 21
Mathew - Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Cor- For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes
of the Lord but also in
the eyes of man.
Trust is the foundation of leadership. As leaders, husbands, parents,
colleagues, pastors etc., we are faced with choices everyday. Some
choices are easier to make than others. A Servant Leader's greatest
aspiration is to be a true disciple of Jesus. He is our perfect
example of Integrity. Though tempted in every way, He never failed.
He had a firm foundation when He walked the Earth as a Human Being.
History abounds with instances of failed leadership due to the lack of
integrity (e.g. Bernard Lawrence "Bernie" Madoff ) resulting in great
loss including human life. Bernie Madoff ran one of the largest Ponzi
schemes in American history and rid investors of $17 billion in
assets, according to court documents. Like a virus, mistrust spread
through communities, affecting many people who were not directly
touched by the Ponzi scheme. Ultimately, Madoff hurt the American
economy as a whole and is now serving a 150-year prison sentence. His
son Mark committed suicide by hanging exactly two years after his
father's arrest.
The world is experiencing a revolution in ideas which can be traced
back to the ideas promoted by Post Modernism. One of the main issues
promoted by Postmodernism is the relativity of truth. Truth is no
longer an absolute but relative as perceived by proponents of the
theory. Society is redefining morality while demoting rather than
promoting man. The values being sold on TV have little or no moral
value but somehow, in this Post Modern age if you do not agree to the
ideologies promoted you are labeled as the enemy ( a bigot). The
Bible however reminds us Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. He
is absolute truth and we can look to Him for the definition of what
truth is in our marriages and other leadership contexts. As a leader,
you need to consistently sow into your "Trust Bank". Those small
actions can either make or break you.
A. How did Jesus overcome temptation?
After being baptized Jesus went into a fast in the wilderness and was
tempted by the Devil in 3 areas. They can be broadly categorized
under:
1. Pride- "If you are the son of God..."
2. Lust - "I will give you..."
3. Power – "Turn these stones into bread"
In all three instances, Jesus responded with the Word of God. He had
the big picture in mind. He also had divine backing. How often do we
only want to read what we like rather than reading the whole of
scripture? These three areas represent the three areas the enemy still
tries to tempt the disciples of Jesus in. It seems as if the advent of
the Prosperity Gospel, has made it easier to tempt this generation.
These three areas have been the stumbling stone for many leaders over
the centuries. Will you be different? Let us examine our hearts
honestly before the Holy Spirit.
Answer the following questions honestly:
a. Do you have issues with pride? Do you seek to be seen by men? Do
you get angry or sad when others perform better than you? Do you feel
you are better than others? Do you always try to justify yourself? Do
you generally think your opinion is the most important?
b. Do you invite members of the opposite to be with you alone? Do you
see God as provider? Can you sacrifice anything for money? Do you
think of other women/men as more beautiful than your spouse? Do you
comment on the beauty of the opposite sex, where-as you find it
difficult to tell your spouse how beautiful they are? Can you be
trusted with money? Do you owe anyone and despite your promises you
have not yet paid back? Are you incorruptible?
c. Do you like to be served? Do seek to always impose your will on
others? In what ways do you serve your family, church, team? Are you
approachable?
The basic foundation of leadership is the leader's character. You may
have made mistakes in the past but praise the Lord we can repent and
commit ourselves to the same values held by our savior. Because there
is such a law as the law of Magnetism (Who you are, is who you
attract), or birds of the same feather flock together etc., if you sow
integrity as a leader, you will reap integrity.
B. Steps towards building a solid foundation of trust.
1. Pre-determine your values. Write them somewhere as a reminder. What
are your values as a Christian and a leader? Please write some now.
You can complete the list later.
2. Be proactive and develop a plan for managing temptations in the
area of Money, Women, Pride and Power. Being prepared is winning the
battle in advance.
3. Draw up a plan for developing personal intimacy with God and to
develop habits of personal devotion. Some activities need to go. The
activities you involve yourself in during your leisure time, may come
back to hunt you. Are you spending too much time on the Internet,
reading news or watching movies? How is this affecting your time with
the Lord, your family and His people?
4. Engage in renewing your mind and behavior to reflect God's image.
God's image refers to reason, personality, intellect, capacity to
relate, to hear, see and speak. He also chose you to be His kingdom
agent, to rule over and subdue the rest of creation including satanic
forces. Your sexual morality, handling money, power and position,
should reflect your being salt and light. This will be achieved
through your personal discipline as you remain humble (relying on
God), a visionary (setting goals) and "convictional" (always doing
right). No one else can bear your responsibility. Without me (Jesus)
you can do nothing. If you abide in me and my words abide in you, you
shall bear much fruit (John 15).
5. Develop habits of a good steward. Everything you possess is from
God. He expects you to manage, invest and use them wisely. Think about
your people, time, finance in stewardship terms. What would you change
in terms of how you mange these? You need to be an effective steward
of time ("…Redeeming the time..." Eph 5:16) for the sake of God's
Kingdom. Attached is what I wrote down as a resolution in 2008 after
taking a similar course. Read it carefully then draw your own plan for
stewardship.
6. Seek to restore wholeness to your family and local church for the
advancement of the Kingdom. As a leader bless your family and add
value to each member. Honor your wife and model (the law of picture),
submission and service rather than retaliating at each opportunity.
Develop a winning partnership with her. Discern the uniqueness in your
children and work with them to build them up as servant leaders in
their own right. Let your gifts (Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor
and teacher) bless your family and the local church.
7. Expand your horizon to apply Kingdom values to the marketplace,
society and the environment. Display an attitude of gratitude, self
control and trust in God for provision. Be honest, a good repent-er,
promoter of excellence in the marketing place and an atmosphere of
peace and harmony applying Kingdom values no matter where you find
yourself.
8. Craft a plan for continuous evaluation of your personal growth in
the Lord. This will keep you humble. Humility will keep you on the
path of integrity.
It is possible to build lasting fruits of integrity. Let your yes be
yes. Again, be reminded, "Trust Is the Foundation of Leadership". Are
you worthy of trust (Proverbs 12:22- 22 The LORD detests lying lips,
but he delights in people who are trustworthy)? Have you burned some
bridges? You now have the opportunity to regain trust. Transformation
from start from within and the Holy spirit is willing to help you.
Some Quotes:
"It is true that integrity alone won't make you a leader, but without
integrity you will never be one." Zig Ziglar
"Earn trust, earn trust, earn trust. Then you can worry about the
rest." – SETH GODIN
Integrity gives you real freedom because you have nothing to fear
since you have nothing to hide. Zig Ziglar
Assignment:
Design your plan for building a solid foundation (integrity) and self
discipline, based on the 8 points discussed above.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Philippians 4: 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true,
whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is
lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or
praiseworthy—think about such things.
Wednesday, August 09, 2017
Enduring Leadership - Week 3. Vision and Goal setting
Because God made us all in His own image, we all are leaders. Jesus
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
**************************************
Week 3. Vision and Goal setting
**************************************
Objective: Participants will be able to define their vision and goals
for the next two years. They will understand the importance of goal
setting, identify roadblocks and commit to a culture of regularly
establishing smart goals.
Key Words: Vision, Goals, SMART
Biblical example: Nehemiah, Paul
Contemporary examples: Peter J. Daniels, Martin Luther King Jr., Billy
Graham, Amundsen and Scott (conquering the Southern pole).
We need to be interested in the future. That is where we are going to
spend the rest of our lives! Anthony D'Souza ~ Developing the leader
within you.
Key Verses:
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the
law, happy is he. Proverbs 29:18 AKJV
And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it
plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. Habakuk 2:2 KJV
A Servant Leader operates with a clear vision for him/herself and the
people he/she leads. What is vision? Is this the same as goals?
Definitions:
Seeing what others do not see (Daniel Shu).
Unusual competence in discernment or perception, intelligent foresight
(Dictionary.com).
My definition of Vision is the ability not only to have a mental image
of a desirable future (ideas), but also the ability to clearly define
this in a way that inspires commitment and challenges into action for
it's realization.
Having good ideas is NOT equal to having a vision.
Examples of vision
Bill gates had the vision of placing a PC in every home back in the
days when IBM machines cost between $2,000-1,500 per PC. Today, PCs
sell for as low as $200 (25 years later).
Martin Luther King: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was one of the most
astonishing men of the 20th century. He was one of the most respected
leaders of the Civil Rights Movement who sacrificed his life for the
vision of equal rights for all races.
What is your vision?
_______________________________________________________________________
While a vision states the desirable end, goals define the steps to be
taken intended to guide action toward the Vision.
We can therefore describe a vision as a clear picture of what the
leader sees his group being or doing. The bible makes it plain that
without vision man (or nation, church, family), is bound to fail.
No Vision >no goals > no direction > no destination > Failure!
Vision spurs you into action, gives you a direction and assures a
future, a legacy and an expected end.
Christian Leader Sundar Singh Sangma has this to say about goals;
"Goal setting is not merely a technique to achieve an objective but a
concept deeply rooted in the word of God "
Why set goals? Leadership develops daily, not in a Day. Your daily
routine indicates the direction you are taking. Do you kill or redeem
time? Servant Leaders also understand that activity is not necessarily
accomplishment. Yes, you may be busy, but how is this helping you
achieve the vision God has given you?
• 1. Goals give direction in life.
• 2. Goals promote enthusiasm.
• 3. Goals make you results oriented.
NO Goal > No Direction
No Direction > No destination
No Destination > Total failure
If you fail to plan, you're busy planning to fail. Ps 37:5 Commit thy
way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
Goals can be:
a) Long Term - To build a Christian school within 15 years that will
help train the next generation of leaders in my country.
b) Medium term – Reach at least 50% of your colleagues with the Gospel
in the next 4 years and ensure at least 20% abide.
c) Short term – Save at least 100 dollars towards kids fees every month.
John Edmund Haggai on goal setting has this encouragement for
believers; "Attempt something that is so big, it is bound to fail if
God is not in it!"
SOME REFERENCES
- 1 Cor 9v24 Teaches us to discipline ourselves and say no to distractions.
- Jer 29v11 We should seek to discover God's plans for our life. Goal
setting is therefore a statement of faith.
Practical exercise:
1. Write down a list of your desires. Things you'd like to accomplish
in the next 2 years.
2. Write S next to Spiritual Goals, P= physical goals, So= Social
goals, F= Family goals, Fi = Financial, P= Personal Development and
Fa- Family.
3. Count and tabulate your results.
4. Draw 7 concentric circles, starting with a small one in the middle..
5. Mark the points on the different circles.
To live a balanced life, you need to set balanced goals in all sectors
of your life.
Let's fix them:
Your goal statements should have the following format;
a. Start with the infinitive;
• To lead...
• To own...
• To write...
• To Preach etc.
Your goal statements should have the following "SMART" format;
b. State clearly what you want to Achieve.
c. Be as Specific as possible i.e. to improve performance is not a
goal. State to what degree to make it Measurable.
d. Make it Realistic but Challenging!
e. Set the date (Time).
f. Write the goals (Habakkuk 2:2). Writing it down inspires
commitment. God's glory should be our ultimate focus.
Goals help a leader to prioritize, act at the right time and maintain
motivation in life. When to Lead Is as Important As What to Do and
Where to Go. Anyone Can Steer the Ship, but it Takes a Leader to Chart
the Course.
Some Goal Killing Habits
*Laziness - Prov 6:6
*Leave it at the level of a good idea - Commit, share and get
commitment (buy-in).
*Do not invest time and prayer in it Prov 3:5-6
*Do not write it down. Hab 2:2. Use a planner/ Diary if possible.
*Do not assign priorities, the 3M (Men- who, Money-how, Minutes -what)
and a time scale for accomplishment. Be Practical. Who (Men) is doing
What(Minutes) and How (Money)?
*Imposed goals
*Set goals every year and then quickly forget about them.
Phil 3:14 "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call
of God in Christ Jesus." (RSV)
Gal 6:9 "And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we
shall reap if we do not grow weary."
It can either be No Vision, No goals, No direction, No direction, No
destination that is Failure!
OR
Know Vision, Know goals, Know direction, Know direction, Know
destination, that is Success!
Assignment: Prayerfully review your vision and establish goals using
this format.
My life mission is:
My monthly Christ-centered goals sheet:
*SET TWO SPIRITUAL GOALS
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ" (II Peter 3:18).
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
*SET TWO PHYSICAL GOALS
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you
present your bodies a living sacrifice...which is your reasonable
service" (Romans 12:1).
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
*SET TWO SOCIAL GOALS
"Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor
giving preference to one another" (Romans 12:10)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
*SET TWO FAMILY GOALS
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
SET TWO FINANCIAL GOALS
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
SET TWO PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT GOALS
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
SET TWO STEWARDSHIP GOALS
"Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
**************************************
Week 3. Vision and Goal setting
**************************************
Objective: Participants will be able to define their vision and goals
for the next two years. They will understand the importance of goal
setting, identify roadblocks and commit to a culture of regularly
establishing smart goals.
Key Words: Vision, Goals, SMART
Biblical example: Nehemiah, Paul
Contemporary examples: Peter J. Daniels, Martin Luther King Jr., Billy
Graham, Amundsen and Scott (conquering the Southern pole).
We need to be interested in the future. That is where we are going to
spend the rest of our lives! Anthony D'Souza ~ Developing the leader
within you.
Key Verses:
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the
law, happy is he. Proverbs 29:18 AKJV
And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it
plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. Habakuk 2:2 KJV
A Servant Leader operates with a clear vision for him/herself and the
people he/she leads. What is vision? Is this the same as goals?
Definitions:
Seeing what others do not see (Daniel Shu).
Unusual competence in discernment or perception, intelligent foresight
(Dictionary.com).
My definition of Vision is the ability not only to have a mental image
of a desirable future (ideas), but also the ability to clearly define
this in a way that inspires commitment and challenges into action for
it's realization.
Having good ideas is NOT equal to having a vision.
Examples of vision
Bill gates had the vision of placing a PC in every home back in the
days when IBM machines cost between $2,000-1,500 per PC. Today, PCs
sell for as low as $200 (25 years later).
Martin Luther King: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was one of the most
astonishing men of the 20th century. He was one of the most respected
leaders of the Civil Rights Movement who sacrificed his life for the
vision of equal rights for all races.
What is your vision?
_______________________________________________________________________
While a vision states the desirable end, goals define the steps to be
taken intended to guide action toward the Vision.
We can therefore describe a vision as a clear picture of what the
leader sees his group being or doing. The bible makes it plain that
without vision man (or nation, church, family), is bound to fail.
No Vision >no goals > no direction > no destination > Failure!
Vision spurs you into action, gives you a direction and assures a
future, a legacy and an expected end.
Christian Leader Sundar Singh Sangma has this to say about goals;
"Goal setting is not merely a technique to achieve an objective but a
concept deeply rooted in the word of God "
Why set goals? Leadership develops daily, not in a Day. Your daily
routine indicates the direction you are taking. Do you kill or redeem
time? Servant Leaders also understand that activity is not necessarily
accomplishment. Yes, you may be busy, but how is this helping you
achieve the vision God has given you?
• 1. Goals give direction in life.
• 2. Goals promote enthusiasm.
• 3. Goals make you results oriented.
NO Goal > No Direction
No Direction > No destination
No Destination > Total failure
If you fail to plan, you're busy planning to fail. Ps 37:5 Commit thy
way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.
Goals can be:
a) Long Term - To build a Christian school within 15 years that will
help train the next generation of leaders in my country.
b) Medium term – Reach at least 50% of your colleagues with the Gospel
in the next 4 years and ensure at least 20% abide.
c) Short term – Save at least 100 dollars towards kids fees every month.
John Edmund Haggai on goal setting has this encouragement for
believers; "Attempt something that is so big, it is bound to fail if
God is not in it!"
SOME REFERENCES
- 1 Cor 9v24 Teaches us to discipline ourselves and say no to distractions.
- Jer 29v11 We should seek to discover God's plans for our life. Goal
setting is therefore a statement of faith.
Practical exercise:
1. Write down a list of your desires. Things you'd like to accomplish
in the next 2 years.
2. Write S next to Spiritual Goals, P= physical goals, So= Social
goals, F= Family goals, Fi = Financial, P= Personal Development and
Fa- Family.
3. Count and tabulate your results.
4. Draw 7 concentric circles, starting with a small one in the middle..
5. Mark the points on the different circles.
To live a balanced life, you need to set balanced goals in all sectors
of your life.
Let's fix them:
Your goal statements should have the following format;
a. Start with the infinitive;
• To lead...
• To own...
• To write...
• To Preach etc.
Your goal statements should have the following "SMART" format;
b. State clearly what you want to Achieve.
c. Be as Specific as possible i.e. to improve performance is not a
goal. State to what degree to make it Measurable.
d. Make it Realistic but Challenging!
e. Set the date (Time).
f. Write the goals (Habakkuk 2:2). Writing it down inspires
commitment. God's glory should be our ultimate focus.
Goals help a leader to prioritize, act at the right time and maintain
motivation in life. When to Lead Is as Important As What to Do and
Where to Go. Anyone Can Steer the Ship, but it Takes a Leader to Chart
the Course.
Some Goal Killing Habits
*Laziness - Prov 6:6
*Leave it at the level of a good idea - Commit, share and get
commitment (buy-in).
*Do not invest time and prayer in it Prov 3:5-6
*Do not write it down. Hab 2:2. Use a planner/ Diary if possible.
*Do not assign priorities, the 3M (Men- who, Money-how, Minutes -what)
and a time scale for accomplishment. Be Practical. Who (Men) is doing
What(Minutes) and How (Money)?
*Imposed goals
*Set goals every year and then quickly forget about them.
Phil 3:14 "I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call
of God in Christ Jesus." (RSV)
Gal 6:9 "And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we
shall reap if we do not grow weary."
It can either be No Vision, No goals, No direction, No direction, No
destination that is Failure!
OR
Know Vision, Know goals, Know direction, Know direction, Know
destination, that is Success!
Assignment: Prayerfully review your vision and establish goals using
this format.
My life mission is:
My monthly Christ-centered goals sheet:
*SET TWO SPIRITUAL GOALS
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ" (II Peter 3:18).
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
*SET TWO PHYSICAL GOALS
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you
present your bodies a living sacrifice...which is your reasonable
service" (Romans 12:1).
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
*SET TWO SOCIAL GOALS
"Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor
giving preference to one another" (Romans 12:10)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
*SET TWO FAMILY GOALS
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
SET TWO FINANCIAL GOALS
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
SET TWO PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT GOALS
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
SET TWO STEWARDSHIP GOALS
"Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down,
shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For
with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:38)
1.
2.
Due Date: Actual Completion date:
Monday, July 31, 2017
Enduring Leadership - Week 2. Lead Like Jesus
Because God made us all in His own image, we all are leaders. Jesus
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
******************************
Week 2. Lead Like Jesus
******************************
Objective: Participants will review how Jesus led, identify their
current leadership preferences and commit to leading like Jesus.
Key Terms: Servant Leadership
Biblical examples: Jesus
But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among
you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you,
let him be your servant, even as the Son of man came not to be
ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for
many. Mathew 20- 26-28 ASV
"The master was full of praise. 'Well done, my good and faithful
servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now
I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!'
Mathew 25:21 NLT
The king's favor is toward a servant who acts wisely, But His anger is toward
him who acts shamefully. Proverbs 14:35
Jesus taught and practiced Servant Leadership, leaving no one indifferent.
He sought to impact His public not just with His words but through
many actions ranging from the ordinary to the miraculous. He came to
both save and serve.
Please watch this video (children see/children do):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JrtpCM4yMM
Servant Leadership transformation process
Leader works on his character ---> Leader serves his people and
builds them up as leaders ---> Leader and his (empowered) people work
on goals ----> Transformed society.
Conscious of the fact that Jesus had (and still has a clear goal for
His disciples): "Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with
Him and that He might send them out to preach." (Mark 3:14).
What can we leaders learn from the example of Jesus? How did He do it?
1. The law of Picture- People do what people see.
He was an example to his followers. He influenced them through His
example. What you sow is what you reap. What do you sow as a leader
either in the life of your followers or those that are in your sphere
of influence? You may have the right words and speak in the right way
but your actions may be contrary to what you say. Your words may be
loud but your actions even louder! What are some of the things you
will like to see in your group/family/children/church?
Write them: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Do you manifest them in your life? As my friend Melvis says, "Give
what you want!"
2. He added value to others. Leaders add value to others by serving them.
A leaders ultimate goal should be to make people better than when he
met them. David, Nehemia, Moses, Abraham, Paul etc these leaders led
their people to a much better place than where they found them. Do you
have a goal for adding value in your followers lives? When we think of
leadership generally, serving others is the last thing that comes to
mind. We want to be served. To sit in the best seats and enjoy favors!
A leader seeking to build his influence has to go through a change in
paradigm. What kind of a Fortune 500 CEO works on a folding table,
answers his own phone, visits hourly employees as often as possible,
and is criticized by Wall Street for being too good to his employees?
The kind of leader who understands the Law of Addition. You however
cannot add value to others if you do not:
a. Add value to yourself. Jesus rose up early to pray. He went apart
away from the crowds (Luke 5:16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely
places and prayed.), to be with the Father and when He came back, He
came with solutions to their problems. David and Moses did the same.
You can add value to yourself by:
- Imitating Jesus. Spend quality time with the Father and obey.
- Knowing the word. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as
a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the
word of truth.
-Having a mentor (Def-"a wise and trusted counselor or teacher.").
Barnabas > Paul > Timothy. "As iron sharpens iron, so one person
sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17).
Moses was mentored by his father-in-law Jethro (Exodus 18). The
mentoring relationship between Eli and Samuel prepared Samuel for the
tasks and responsibilities that were his after Eli's death (1 Samuel
1–4). Jesus mentored His disciples (Luke 9). Barnabas mentored Paul
and Paul excelled in mentoring Timothy, Titus and many others (Acts
9–15).
- Growing in your knowledge - "For this very reason, make every
effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge" (2
Peter 1:5). Be informed. Information is power. Study History in the
light of scriptures. Look at what science says and some arguments men
have made. Have an idea on politics. This will add value to you as a
leader and enrich your communication.
b. Truly valuing others. Jesus did not just want followers or
disciples. He cared for them, He knew each one and what they needed to
grow. He prayed for each of His disciples and His people. He cared and
people knew He sincerely cared. Give all your worries and cares to
God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:7 Do you know the names of
your members/followers? Do you know at what stage they are in their
walk with God? Do you pray for them regularly? Do you show them that
you value them ( Husband, children, wife, church/team members,
followers)?
Pastor- Can a member talk to you, knowing you will listen to them and
pray for them without necessarily being Judgmental or seeking to leak
out their sin to the public?
Husband/mother- Can you wife/children come to you with their issues
knowing you will value their contribution? Do they seek you out for
counsel or go to someone else?
c. Knowing and relating to what others value. What do your people
value? How do you tie this in with your actions? You can only meet a
need when you know that need. If you need discernment, ask the Holy
spirit and He will give you the ability to discern.
3.He connected with His team: Leaders touch a heart before they ask
for a hand. This is the same practice when you're seeking to impress
and hopefully win a lady's heart! Jesus built His disciples and poured
out His life into them. How often do we see through the crowd and only
consider the goals? Each individual is unique and has their own issues
they're dealing with. A leader needs to seek to connect with
individuals. How do you do that?
a- Work on your Emotional Intelligence. Emotional intelligence (EI)
is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, and those
of the people around you. People with a high degree of emotional
intelligence know what they're feeling, what their emotions mean, and
how these emotions can affect other people.
b- Be proactive not reactive. Work to seek solutions not react to situations.
c- Effective communication. A good communicator is a good listener.
In summary: "Walk slowly through the crowd"- John Maxwell.
4. He made the ultimate sacrifice. Jesus gave His very own life for
our salvation. The Bible makes us understand God's motive for this
ultimate sacrifice was love. Love for the world John 3:15-17! While
you are not expected to lay down your life (Jesus already did that),
how can we follow Jesus in His love? A leader must give up to go up.
Do you love the people you lead? What would you give up for the people
(Church, Family etc.) you lead? Sleep, food, secret sins,
procrastination, laziness (Proverbs 6:6 Go to the ant, you sluggard;
consider its ways and be wise!) etc.???
5. He had Discernment. He was able to read situations, trends,
Himself, His resources and the people. Every time is not a good time.
The law of intuition states that "Leaders evaluate everything with a
Leadership Bias". A leader with discernment, leans on the Holy Spirit
and grows in their ability to ;
- Read themselves. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Where can you improve?
- Read their situations. Is the timing right? Look at all the details.
- Read trends. What is happening generally?
- Read their resources. What do I have and how can I maximize?
- Read their people. What is happening among your people? EI. What are
their hopes, desires, and fears?
Use your head to lead yourself and your head to lead others (Maxwell)
Assignment:
1. Write down two ways you can add value to yourself and others this week.
2. Write down for each group you lead, one way in which you can
connect with them this week.
3. Write down 3 principal things you learned and some major changes
you need to make as a result of this session.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for [so] I am. 14 If I
then, [your] Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to
wash one another's feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that ye
should do as I have done to you.16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The
servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater
than he that sent him.17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye
do them.
John 13:13-17 AV
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
******************************
Week 2. Lead Like Jesus
******************************
Objective: Participants will review how Jesus led, identify their
current leadership preferences and commit to leading like Jesus.
Key Terms: Servant Leadership
Biblical examples: Jesus
But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among
you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you,
let him be your servant, even as the Son of man came not to be
ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for
many. Mathew 20- 26-28 ASV
"The master was full of praise. 'Well done, my good and faithful
servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now
I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together!'
Mathew 25:21 NLT
The king's favor is toward a servant who acts wisely, But His anger is toward
him who acts shamefully. Proverbs 14:35
Jesus taught and practiced Servant Leadership, leaving no one indifferent.
He sought to impact His public not just with His words but through
many actions ranging from the ordinary to the miraculous. He came to
both save and serve.
Please watch this video (children see/children do):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JrtpCM4yMM
Servant Leadership transformation process
Leader works on his character ---> Leader serves his people and
builds them up as leaders ---> Leader and his (empowered) people work
on goals ----> Transformed society.
Conscious of the fact that Jesus had (and still has a clear goal for
His disciples): "Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with
Him and that He might send them out to preach." (Mark 3:14).
What can we leaders learn from the example of Jesus? How did He do it?
1. The law of Picture- People do what people see.
He was an example to his followers. He influenced them through His
example. What you sow is what you reap. What do you sow as a leader
either in the life of your followers or those that are in your sphere
of influence? You may have the right words and speak in the right way
but your actions may be contrary to what you say. Your words may be
loud but your actions even louder! What are some of the things you
will like to see in your group/family/children/church?
Write them: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Do you manifest them in your life? As my friend Melvis says, "Give
what you want!"
2. He added value to others. Leaders add value to others by serving them.
A leaders ultimate goal should be to make people better than when he
met them. David, Nehemia, Moses, Abraham, Paul etc these leaders led
their people to a much better place than where they found them. Do you
have a goal for adding value in your followers lives? When we think of
leadership generally, serving others is the last thing that comes to
mind. We want to be served. To sit in the best seats and enjoy favors!
A leader seeking to build his influence has to go through a change in
paradigm. What kind of a Fortune 500 CEO works on a folding table,
answers his own phone, visits hourly employees as often as possible,
and is criticized by Wall Street for being too good to his employees?
The kind of leader who understands the Law of Addition. You however
cannot add value to others if you do not:
a. Add value to yourself. Jesus rose up early to pray. He went apart
away from the crowds (Luke 5:16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely
places and prayed.), to be with the Father and when He came back, He
came with solutions to their problems. David and Moses did the same.
You can add value to yourself by:
- Imitating Jesus. Spend quality time with the Father and obey.
- Knowing the word. Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as
a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the
word of truth.
-Having a mentor (Def-"a wise and trusted counselor or teacher.").
Barnabas > Paul > Timothy. "As iron sharpens iron, so one person
sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17).
Moses was mentored by his father-in-law Jethro (Exodus 18). The
mentoring relationship between Eli and Samuel prepared Samuel for the
tasks and responsibilities that were his after Eli's death (1 Samuel
1–4). Jesus mentored His disciples (Luke 9). Barnabas mentored Paul
and Paul excelled in mentoring Timothy, Titus and many others (Acts
9–15).
- Growing in your knowledge - "For this very reason, make every
effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge" (2
Peter 1:5). Be informed. Information is power. Study History in the
light of scriptures. Look at what science says and some arguments men
have made. Have an idea on politics. This will add value to you as a
leader and enrich your communication.
b. Truly valuing others. Jesus did not just want followers or
disciples. He cared for them, He knew each one and what they needed to
grow. He prayed for each of His disciples and His people. He cared and
people knew He sincerely cared. Give all your worries and cares to
God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:7 Do you know the names of
your members/followers? Do you know at what stage they are in their
walk with God? Do you pray for them regularly? Do you show them that
you value them ( Husband, children, wife, church/team members,
followers)?
Pastor- Can a member talk to you, knowing you will listen to them and
pray for them without necessarily being Judgmental or seeking to leak
out their sin to the public?
Husband/mother- Can you wife/children come to you with their issues
knowing you will value their contribution? Do they seek you out for
counsel or go to someone else?
c. Knowing and relating to what others value. What do your people
value? How do you tie this in with your actions? You can only meet a
need when you know that need. If you need discernment, ask the Holy
spirit and He will give you the ability to discern.
3.He connected with His team: Leaders touch a heart before they ask
for a hand. This is the same practice when you're seeking to impress
and hopefully win a lady's heart! Jesus built His disciples and poured
out His life into them. How often do we see through the crowd and only
consider the goals? Each individual is unique and has their own issues
they're dealing with. A leader needs to seek to connect with
individuals. How do you do that?
a- Work on your Emotional Intelligence. Emotional intelligence (EI)
is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions, and those
of the people around you. People with a high degree of emotional
intelligence know what they're feeling, what their emotions mean, and
how these emotions can affect other people.
b- Be proactive not reactive. Work to seek solutions not react to situations.
c- Effective communication. A good communicator is a good listener.
In summary: "Walk slowly through the crowd"- John Maxwell.
4. He made the ultimate sacrifice. Jesus gave His very own life for
our salvation. The Bible makes us understand God's motive for this
ultimate sacrifice was love. Love for the world John 3:15-17! While
you are not expected to lay down your life (Jesus already did that),
how can we follow Jesus in His love? A leader must give up to go up.
Do you love the people you lead? What would you give up for the people
(Church, Family etc.) you lead? Sleep, food, secret sins,
procrastination, laziness (Proverbs 6:6 Go to the ant, you sluggard;
consider its ways and be wise!) etc.???
5. He had Discernment. He was able to read situations, trends,
Himself, His resources and the people. Every time is not a good time.
The law of intuition states that "Leaders evaluate everything with a
Leadership Bias". A leader with discernment, leans on the Holy Spirit
and grows in their ability to ;
- Read themselves. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Where can you improve?
- Read their situations. Is the timing right? Look at all the details.
- Read trends. What is happening generally?
- Read their resources. What do I have and how can I maximize?
- Read their people. What is happening among your people? EI. What are
their hopes, desires, and fears?
Use your head to lead yourself and your head to lead others (Maxwell)
Assignment:
1. Write down two ways you can add value to yourself and others this week.
2. Write down for each group you lead, one way in which you can
connect with them this week.
3. Write down 3 principal things you learned and some major changes
you need to make as a result of this session.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for [so] I am. 14 If I
then, [your] Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to
wash one another's feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that ye
should do as I have done to you.16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The
servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater
than he that sent him.17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye
do them.
John 13:13-17 AV
Monday, July 24, 2017
Enduring Leadership - Week 1. Issues of the Lid
Because God made us all in His own image, we all are leaders. Jesus
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
******************************
Week 1. Issues of the Lid
******************************
Objective: Participants will be able to define true leadership,
identify current limitations to their leadership and establish a
general goal to tackle their limitations.
Key Terms: Servant Leadership, effectiveness, influence paradigms, limitations.
Biblical example: Jesus - Luke 22:25-26; Negative (Saul), Positive
(David –2 Samuel), The Twelve spies (Numbers 13- 15)
1. Who is a leader? How many of you think you are leaders? A leader is
anyone who has the ability to influence. Therefore everyone is a
leader. We have different leadership potentials reason why we need to
develop the gift (Romans 12:8).
2. Why is everyone a leader? We are all made (equally) in the image of
God (Genesis 1:27). It is in Him that we live, move and have our being
Acts 17:29. No where will you see, however that we should dominate
over our fellow men. Those over whom God has given us responsibility
(church, family, wife etc...). We are called to lead through the
process of influence. We all have the ability to influence someone
else even if we do not have a formal position or title.
This is the true measure of leadership, nothing more, and nothing
less. Jesus didn't have CNN, a Facebook page or a Twitter account yet
even after more than 2000 years, more has been written and said about
Him than anyone else dead or alive. His name is known in all the
different continents on Earth! He did not have an army and didn't
build any embassies. All He had was backing from Heaven! Do you have
backing from heaven?
So why do we have these limitations (like Saul) on our leadership ability?
Reflect on this - "As a man thinks in his heart, so he is."(Proverbs 23:7).
The stories of Saul and David illustrate how Saul's attitude destroyed
him while David's attitude served as a springboard for his promotion.
In leadership we talk about Lids. Your leadership ability will
determine your level of effectiveness ( John C. Maxwell - 21
irrefutable laws of Leadership). Low leadership ability will result to
low effectiveness.
Ex: What were Saul's Lids?
Question - How did David work on his own lids?
Assignment:
1. What are some of the Leadership Lids in my life?
2. What are some of the things I can do to lift these lids?
3. Write down the names of three leaders you know and have access to
4. Within the week, meet with them and ask the following questions:
• Why are you a leader?
• How did you become a leader?
• How do you make your team do what needs to be done?
• What do you do to make your team successful?
5. Write down some changes you need to make as a result of this session.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The key to leadership today is influence not authority! ~Ken Blanchard
God has given you the Gift and Responsibility to lead so...Romans 12:8
New International Version - if it is to encourage, then give
encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to
lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
New Living Translation - If your gift is to encourage others, be
encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you
leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have
a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
English Standard Version - the one who exhorts, in his exhortation;
the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal;
the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
International Standard Version - If it is encouraging, devote
yourself to encouraging others. If it is sharing, share generously. If
it is leading, lead enthusiastically. If it is helping, help
cheerfully.
Jubilee Bible 2000 - he that exhorts, in exhortation; he that gives,
let him do it in simplicity; he that presides, in earnest care; he
that shows mercy, in cheerfulness.
Douay-Rheims Bible - He that exhorteth, in exhorting; he that giveth,
with simplicity; he that ruleth, with carefulness; he that sheweth
mercy, with cheerfulness.
Weymouth New Testament - The teacher must do the same in his
teaching; and he who exhorts others, in his exhortation. He who gives
should be liberal; he who is in authority should be energetic and
alert; and he who succours the afflicted should do it cheerfully.
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION?- Forteh (at) gmail dot com.
God bless.
Innocent
--
The truth never changes.Do you know Him?
www.forteh.blogspot.com
www.linda4te.blogspot.com
http://forteh.googlepages.com/home
www.twitter.com/inno4te
www.associate.com/groups/practical
lived and taught Servant Leadership. This is not an option for the
Disciple of Jesus, it is the only option. Our service, good example
and deliberate goals for empowering others, are potent tools for
positive influence.
******************************
Week 1. Issues of the Lid
******************************
Objective: Participants will be able to define true leadership,
identify current limitations to their leadership and establish a
general goal to tackle their limitations.
Key Terms: Servant Leadership, effectiveness, influence paradigms, limitations.
Biblical example: Jesus - Luke 22:25-26; Negative (Saul), Positive
(David –2 Samuel), The Twelve spies (Numbers 13- 15)
1. Who is a leader? How many of you think you are leaders? A leader is
anyone who has the ability to influence. Therefore everyone is a
leader. We have different leadership potentials reason why we need to
develop the gift (Romans 12:8).
2. Why is everyone a leader? We are all made (equally) in the image of
God (Genesis 1:27). It is in Him that we live, move and have our being
Acts 17:29. No where will you see, however that we should dominate
over our fellow men. Those over whom God has given us responsibility
(church, family, wife etc...). We are called to lead through the
process of influence. We all have the ability to influence someone
else even if we do not have a formal position or title.
This is the true measure of leadership, nothing more, and nothing
less. Jesus didn't have CNN, a Facebook page or a Twitter account yet
even after more than 2000 years, more has been written and said about
Him than anyone else dead or alive. His name is known in all the
different continents on Earth! He did not have an army and didn't
build any embassies. All He had was backing from Heaven! Do you have
backing from heaven?
So why do we have these limitations (like Saul) on our leadership ability?
Reflect on this - "As a man thinks in his heart, so he is."(Proverbs 23:7).
The stories of Saul and David illustrate how Saul's attitude destroyed
him while David's attitude served as a springboard for his promotion.
In leadership we talk about Lids. Your leadership ability will
determine your level of effectiveness ( John C. Maxwell - 21
irrefutable laws of Leadership). Low leadership ability will result to
low effectiveness.
Ex: What were Saul's Lids?
Question - How did David work on his own lids?
Assignment:
1. What are some of the Leadership Lids in my life?
2. What are some of the things I can do to lift these lids?
3. Write down the names of three leaders you know and have access to
4. Within the week, meet with them and ask the following questions:
• Why are you a leader?
• How did you become a leader?
• How do you make your team do what needs to be done?
• What do you do to make your team successful?
5. Write down some changes you need to make as a result of this session.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
The key to leadership today is influence not authority! ~Ken Blanchard
God has given you the Gift and Responsibility to lead so...Romans 12:8
New International Version - if it is to encourage, then give
encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to
lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
New Living Translation - If your gift is to encourage others, be
encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you
leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have
a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
English Standard Version - the one who exhorts, in his exhortation;
the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal;
the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
International Standard Version - If it is encouraging, devote
yourself to encouraging others. If it is sharing, share generously. If
it is leading, lead enthusiastically. If it is helping, help
cheerfully.
Jubilee Bible 2000 - he that exhorts, in exhortation; he that gives,
let him do it in simplicity; he that presides, in earnest care; he
that shows mercy, in cheerfulness.
Douay-Rheims Bible - He that exhorteth, in exhorting; he that giveth,
with simplicity; he that ruleth, with carefulness; he that sheweth
mercy, with cheerfulness.
Weymouth New Testament - The teacher must do the same in his
teaching; and he who exhorts others, in his exhortation. He who gives
should be liberal; he who is in authority should be energetic and
alert; and he who succours the afflicted should do it cheerfully.
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION?- Forteh (at) gmail dot com.
God bless.
Innocent
--
The truth never changes.Do you know Him?
www.forteh.blogspot.com
www.linda4te.blogspot.com
http://forteh.googlepages.com/home
www.twitter.com/inno4te
www.associate.com/groups/practical
Enduring Leadership
The next few blogs will be on a lesson I gave in the Middle East. Hope
it challenges you too. Gratitude to all the authors whose material I
freely burrowed.
Thank you and God bless.
Regards
Innocent
--
The truth never changes.Do you know Him?
www.forteh.blogspot.com
www.linda4te.blogspot.com
http://forteh.googlepages.com/home
www.twitter.com/inno4te
www.associate.com/groups/practical
it challenges you too. Gratitude to all the authors whose material I
freely burrowed.
Thank you and God bless.
Regards
Innocent
--
The truth never changes.Do you know Him?
www.forteh.blogspot.com
www.linda4te.blogspot.com
http://forteh.googlepages.com/home
www.twitter.com/inno4te
www.associate.com/groups/practical
Thursday, August 18, 2016
Abraham as a Leader
The story starts with God asking Abraham to leave His tribe to go to a
land God will show him. In response to God's call on his life (Genesis
12), Abraham left in obedience taking along with him Lot (his Nephew),
Sarah (his wife) and a host of servants. We can learn a lot from his
interactions in different situations with the different groups of
people he encounters as he proceeded in his 'pilgrimage'. It takes a
leader with a lot of influence, to lead others into new and uncharted
territory.
Some clear aspects of Abraham's servant leadership ability include:
a. Not afraid of change: With all he had in Ur, Abraham could have
opted for a more quiet and 'certain' path rather than electing to obey
God and go on an adventure into a seemingly 'uncertain' path. It takes
a strong leader to both appreciate and institute change especially
when this wields the potential of having an overall positive impact on
either the organization or church in terms of its objectives and the
people. Abraham knew this change was important, if he, his descendants
and the peoples of the Earth should experience God's blessings
(Genesis 12:2-3), and he was not afraid to lead his people into this
change.
b. Vision: It is clear from scripture, God called Abraham. The
promises God gave him, led him into having a clear vision for himself
and followers. A leader without vision is akin to the blind leading
the blind. We can see elements of his possession of a clear vision,
manifesting in various forms such as;
i- Refraining from inter-marriage with the locals in a bid to keep
away pollution from foreign gods (Genesis 24:3). He will live next to
them and together with his people will have to influence them and not
them influencing him. This was like establishing a line and invisible
line that ensured that their values as a people did not get mixed up
with the values of the people who were now their neighbors.
ii- Purchasing land in Canaan. He knew where God had called him to and
instead of just accepting the land as a gift from Ephron, he insisted
on purchasing it hence advancing his claim on the land. He wouldn't
have done that if he had no long term plans for the land. This also
probably conferred on him some form of political status.
c. Discernment- He lived in an era and country of great idol worship
but was able to both discern the voice of God and obey it when He
spoke. Discernment helped him distinguish between the prevailing
circumstance and the possibilities for a better future. He was not
limited by his current circumstances but was able to discern that he
indeed had heard from the true and living God, leading to his decision
to not only leave Ur alone, but also take his Nephew, Lot with him. If
all he wanted was an adventure or if he wasn't sure about the outcome,
he would have gone alone. His action shows he was completely convinced
about who he had heard from reason why he did not have a 'Plan B'.
Leaders need discernment in order to lead their followers with both
empathy and in paths that will meet their true needs.
d. Influence – He was able to influence his nephew lot to follow him.
Good leaders are able to influence others to follow them. You are not
really a leader if you walk alone. Lot brought along his family and
servants to embark on this 'adventure' with his uncle. We cannot tell
for sure what made Lot to yield to Abraham's influence but there are
certain great servant leadership characteristics such as; humility,
integrity, charisma, good communication ability and positive example,
that will help build a leaders ability to influence. His influence on
his household, including his servants, can be seen in how his chief
servant went about his assigned duty of finding a wife for Isaac
(Genesis 24). It would seem his servants had an important status in
his household and were well trained fighters, as they later helped him
in battle. He had empowered them with no fear of losing power himself.
Armed with an address only, the servant had to count on God and prayed
for every step. He probably learned this complete dependency on God
from his master. Abraham was therefore a great example to his servants
and influenced them through his example.
e. Risk taker –Gen 12:1-3 Abraham, left all he knew and the comfort of
Ur to an uncertain future. He could have chosen the path of least
resistance rather than facing the sure hostility in unknown territory,
but these seemingly did not bother him. From hindsight we know he was
well prepared as he had a formidable army in his servants. Instead of
focusing on the risks, Abraham focused on obeying God resulting to
great benefits for him and his followers.
f. Humility – He sought a practical solution to the dispute between
his and Lots' herdsmen. He could have easily raised the fact that he
was the uncle or the vision bearer or some other lofty idea to get his
way but he instead opted to maintain the good relation between his
nephew and himself.
g. Put others first (Relational) – He allowed Lot to choose first.
Here we see Abraham again consistently applying servant leadership. He
considered their relationship more important than his personal
desires. He placed those he served and their needs at the center. His
desire, to see them empowered is again very clear in this example.
h. Care for others– Abraham's intercession on the behalf of Sodom and
Gomorrah is a good example of servant leadership in action, seeking to
protect its own. He possibly was primarily motivated by the presence
of his Nephew in Sodom, but it is clear he was interceding for the
salvation of all of Sodom and all of Gomorrah. He had true concern for
his neighbors and just didn't live only for his personal benefit and
the enjoyment of his relationship with God. The salvation of the lost
was important for him.
i. Integrity – He refused to accept the 'offer' of the king of Sodom.
This in the sight of probably his servants. How often do we find men
of such integrity? He had purposed it to stay true to the God who had
promised to make him rich, than take a short cut that would taint his
testimony.
j. Unshakeable confidence in God: Even though Sarah was barren, he
trusted in God's promise to make him a nation Gen 15:5-6, Gen 17:4.
His faith in God made God to declare him righteous (v6). We see this
also manifesting when without questioning the instruction he received
to go sacrifice his son, he acted in complete obedience.
k. Good communicator: We see this during his negotiations to purchase
the land and even in his communication with those who were sent to
destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. A good leader should build their
communication skills.
l. Equipped his followers; these (servants and other members of his
household) were able to fight a war and turn the captivity of Lot, his
nephew. This again is a key concept of servant leadership, which we
see Abraham manifesting. He empowered his followers and they were
successful.
Are you a Servant Leader?
--
The truth never changes.Do you know Him?
www.forteh.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/inno4te
land God will show him. In response to God's call on his life (Genesis
12), Abraham left in obedience taking along with him Lot (his Nephew),
Sarah (his wife) and a host of servants. We can learn a lot from his
interactions in different situations with the different groups of
people he encounters as he proceeded in his 'pilgrimage'. It takes a
leader with a lot of influence, to lead others into new and uncharted
territory.
Some clear aspects of Abraham's servant leadership ability include:
a. Not afraid of change: With all he had in Ur, Abraham could have
opted for a more quiet and 'certain' path rather than electing to obey
God and go on an adventure into a seemingly 'uncertain' path. It takes
a strong leader to both appreciate and institute change especially
when this wields the potential of having an overall positive impact on
either the organization or church in terms of its objectives and the
people. Abraham knew this change was important, if he, his descendants
and the peoples of the Earth should experience God's blessings
(Genesis 12:2-3), and he was not afraid to lead his people into this
change.
b. Vision: It is clear from scripture, God called Abraham. The
promises God gave him, led him into having a clear vision for himself
and followers. A leader without vision is akin to the blind leading
the blind. We can see elements of his possession of a clear vision,
manifesting in various forms such as;
i- Refraining from inter-marriage with the locals in a bid to keep
away pollution from foreign gods (Genesis 24:3). He will live next to
them and together with his people will have to influence them and not
them influencing him. This was like establishing a line and invisible
line that ensured that their values as a people did not get mixed up
with the values of the people who were now their neighbors.
ii- Purchasing land in Canaan. He knew where God had called him to and
instead of just accepting the land as a gift from Ephron, he insisted
on purchasing it hence advancing his claim on the land. He wouldn't
have done that if he had no long term plans for the land. This also
probably conferred on him some form of political status.
c. Discernment- He lived in an era and country of great idol worship
but was able to both discern the voice of God and obey it when He
spoke. Discernment helped him distinguish between the prevailing
circumstance and the possibilities for a better future. He was not
limited by his current circumstances but was able to discern that he
indeed had heard from the true and living God, leading to his decision
to not only leave Ur alone, but also take his Nephew, Lot with him. If
all he wanted was an adventure or if he wasn't sure about the outcome,
he would have gone alone. His action shows he was completely convinced
about who he had heard from reason why he did not have a 'Plan B'.
Leaders need discernment in order to lead their followers with both
empathy and in paths that will meet their true needs.
d. Influence – He was able to influence his nephew lot to follow him.
Good leaders are able to influence others to follow them. You are not
really a leader if you walk alone. Lot brought along his family and
servants to embark on this 'adventure' with his uncle. We cannot tell
for sure what made Lot to yield to Abraham's influence but there are
certain great servant leadership characteristics such as; humility,
integrity, charisma, good communication ability and positive example,
that will help build a leaders ability to influence. His influence on
his household, including his servants, can be seen in how his chief
servant went about his assigned duty of finding a wife for Isaac
(Genesis 24). It would seem his servants had an important status in
his household and were well trained fighters, as they later helped him
in battle. He had empowered them with no fear of losing power himself.
Armed with an address only, the servant had to count on God and prayed
for every step. He probably learned this complete dependency on God
from his master. Abraham was therefore a great example to his servants
and influenced them through his example.
e. Risk taker –Gen 12:1-3 Abraham, left all he knew and the comfort of
Ur to an uncertain future. He could have chosen the path of least
resistance rather than facing the sure hostility in unknown territory,
but these seemingly did not bother him. From hindsight we know he was
well prepared as he had a formidable army in his servants. Instead of
focusing on the risks, Abraham focused on obeying God resulting to
great benefits for him and his followers.
f. Humility – He sought a practical solution to the dispute between
his and Lots' herdsmen. He could have easily raised the fact that he
was the uncle or the vision bearer or some other lofty idea to get his
way but he instead opted to maintain the good relation between his
nephew and himself.
g. Put others first (Relational) – He allowed Lot to choose first.
Here we see Abraham again consistently applying servant leadership. He
considered their relationship more important than his personal
desires. He placed those he served and their needs at the center. His
desire, to see them empowered is again very clear in this example.
h. Care for others– Abraham's intercession on the behalf of Sodom and
Gomorrah is a good example of servant leadership in action, seeking to
protect its own. He possibly was primarily motivated by the presence
of his Nephew in Sodom, but it is clear he was interceding for the
salvation of all of Sodom and all of Gomorrah. He had true concern for
his neighbors and just didn't live only for his personal benefit and
the enjoyment of his relationship with God. The salvation of the lost
was important for him.
i. Integrity – He refused to accept the 'offer' of the king of Sodom.
This in the sight of probably his servants. How often do we find men
of such integrity? He had purposed it to stay true to the God who had
promised to make him rich, than take a short cut that would taint his
testimony.
j. Unshakeable confidence in God: Even though Sarah was barren, he
trusted in God's promise to make him a nation Gen 15:5-6, Gen 17:4.
His faith in God made God to declare him righteous (v6). We see this
also manifesting when without questioning the instruction he received
to go sacrifice his son, he acted in complete obedience.
k. Good communicator: We see this during his negotiations to purchase
the land and even in his communication with those who were sent to
destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. A good leader should build their
communication skills.
l. Equipped his followers; these (servants and other members of his
household) were able to fight a war and turn the captivity of Lot, his
nephew. This again is a key concept of servant leadership, which we
see Abraham manifesting. He empowered his followers and they were
successful.
Are you a Servant Leader?
--
The truth never changes.Do you know Him?
www.forteh.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/inno4te
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