Jesus Style Leadership 3 - Crop & FaithSample

Jesus-Style Leadership Requires Great Effort

Leadership Lesson

Augustine: “Pray as though everything depends on God. Work as though everything depends on you.”

Read 1 Corinthians 9:24–27.

Comment

Paul’s athletic focus in this passage is not just on finishing the race (as in the previous devotion) but on winning the race. He has a prize in mind (an eternal reward from Jesus), and he is determined to get it. It’s important to understand what Paul is saying and not saying with the picture he paints.

1. Paul is not saying that we must compete with each other because only one person can win God’s reward (9:24). Of course, everyone can win.

2. Paul is not saying that we must beat ourselves up to keep our bodies under control (9:27). I’m sure you’re relieved about that. That would be most unhealthy.

3. Paul is saying that winning God’s prize will take incredible focus and discipline. Like elite athletes, Jesus-style leaders are not living a normal life. They make significant sacrifices to serve God and others.

4. Paul is saying that serving God well is hard work. There is a lot of energy and effort involved. A good Crop results from both God’s work and our effort.

Augustine (a great Christian leader from the fourth century) said, “Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.” I like that. We must pray that God will do his work, but we also must give it all we’ve got. After all, we’re achieving far more than an Olympic athlete.

Prayer

I’m not sure that I would use the “beat my body” picture that Paul suggests, but I get what he is saying. It takes incredible discipline and effort to keep serving you when others around me seem to be having a good time and pleasing themselves. Please help me to stay true to my calling as a Jesus-style leader. I want to win your eternal prize. You know, Lord, that I’m willing to put in the hard yards. Please encourage and strengthen me.

Personal Reflection

What disciplines do you have in place to make sure that you stay focused on God’s call and doing what he wants? Are they helping?