Good morning, DearHeart.

As our sons were growing up a common talk we’d have with them was that others … especially younger folks were always watching them. The power of their words, influence, attitude, work ethic, relationship with Christ, was always on display. And, even as young boys, they were leaders with followers.

They also decided along the way … well, to put it simply … and blunt … leadership is messy. And we all interact with leadership in some way.

Whether it is at school, work, church, with family, or relationships, our lives are impacted by leadership. If our desire is to lead well, we must continually develop and our leadership will require everything of us.

Great leadership is rare because it takes work. And, it is ever-changing.

It takes intentionality.

It requires sacrifice.

It takes resolve.

It involves heartaches,

disappointments,

and mistakes.

It requires apologies.

It entails a daily dose of humility.

It means relentless growth and

frequent failure. (sigh).

Extraordinary leadership isn’t easy, but it is possible.

I’ve always thought the secret to extraordinary leadership lies in this verse, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all you strength. The second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself. No other commandment is greater than these.” (Mark 12:30-31, NLT)

When you operate from a point of loving your people well, you get to witness little victories trickling from the people you lead as they lead others. You also gain courage to grow your skills through the challenges.

Notice today those who are following – intentionally, and unintentionally – those who are watching from a distance. Notice the power of your influence.

May we be committed to our growth because our God is committed to us through the long haul.

“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”
(Philippians 1:6, NLT)

Wake up.

Continue growing.

Go.