Introduction To The Leader's JourneySample

INTRODUCTION TO THE LEADER'S JOURNEY

Day THREE: Lead OTHERS

Devotion 

The best leaders are servant leaders. However, while servanthood is embedded in their character, they also understand the importance of leadership skills. Consider the word SERVE to remind you of the importance of both character and skills.

The SERVE model represents the 5 fundamental skills of great leaders. 

Great leaders: 

See the future 

Engage and Develop Others 

Reinvent Continuously 

Value Results and Relationships 

Embody the Values 

Leading others begins with a vision (See the Future) and enlisting someone to help you go after it (Engage and Develop Others). Then, as you begin to grow, change is inevitable. You will be required to adapt and adjust (Reinvent Continuously), and balance the tension between profits and people (Value Results and Relationships). Finally, keep in mind, people always watch the leader. Leaders go first and live last (Embody the Values).

As you work on your skills don't neglect the importance of your heart. If your heart is not right, no one cares about your skills. The most powerful weapon a leader has in his ‘lead others’ arsenal is a heart rooted in love. 

The Bible tells us, “God demonstrated His love.” Love is not a passive word. It is a word that bleeds example — action — effort — and generosity. If you want to lead others well, love will drive your words and behavior. You will never demonstrate care, unless you care. The driving force of the Apostle Paul as he engaged and developed others was love. Love motivated his vision to share God’s good news — impart his very life to others — work a job so that he wasn’t a burden to anyone — live as an example — care for others as a father would his own children — and encourage others to honor God in everything. In his life we see that Paul was a genuine servant (SERVE) leader.

Those who truly lead others work on their skills and are motivated by love. As a result, it increases their influence.

Ask yourself as you enter your day…

Which of the skills in the SERVE model represent an opportunity for me to grow?

Where do I need to demonstrate more care for those I lead?

Who needs to be loved by me today? 

Prayer —

Father, as I lead others today, let all I do and say be motivated by love. Help me see what others need and move to SERVE them. Bless me with a generous heart and a willing spirit to share what You have taught me for the good and growth of others. May I reflect the heart of Jesus and lead and love as He did.