Lead With IntentSample

Introduction

Paul writes that if we have received the gift and opportunity of leading, we should use it with great diligence (Romans 12:8). Leadership does not happen by accident. It is a daily occurrence that we see people in positions of leadership that have no intention to serve and guide others. When leadership is gifted to us, we must steward it with great diligence to lead those we are responsible for with intention.

There are nine principles and practices that bring great intentionality to your leadership. Once you practice these nine principles, there is also a clear impact on the culture of your team and the organization you work for. Today we will look at the first principle and practice. Then, over the next eight days, we will cover a single principle and practice it every day. In our experience working with followers of Jesus, trying to lead with intention in the marketplace, these principles and practices will raise the levels of staff engagement and soon after see a sustainable increase in the organization's profitability.

1. Principle - Practice - Impact on Culture

Humility - Vulnerability - Trust

The first principle is humility. In almost all languages, this means to lower yourself. Paul writes in his letter to the Philippians that we need to imitate this lowly posture of Christ: "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross."

Jesus practiced His humility by being extremely vulnerable. He became a human, born a baby so that He could be with us and show us His humanity. We know and trust God because of Jesus. So how do we as leaders show our vulnerability, just as Christ did? It could start with the following acknowledgment: "I am sorry." "I need help." "I do not know." "I was wrong." These acknowledgments show people that you are human, make mistakes, and are willing to admit them.

Once leaders show vulnerability, the impact on the culture of your team will be a rapid rise in trust. And when trust increases, we can be a lot more productive as a team.