Leadership and people-development

A parent doesn't just care for the physical needs of their children. If they are truly influencing (leading) their children, they have a goal in mind. They want their child to grow up to be mature in every way. They want their child to be an incredible tool in the hands of a Mighty God to impact their culture for good. They see their child as one of the next generation's leaders and they parent accordingly.

A boss who is a true leader has the same mindset. When they look at those who are under their authority, they don't see them as simply a bunch of folks hired to get a job done. The see them as men and women who desire to live lives that matter. They crave happiness. They want to be proud of themselves and what they are a part of. So, the competent, caring boss focuses on not only getting the job done - he/she also focuses on helping their workforce achieve many of the things they crave through training, creative encouragement, celebrating victories, etc.

Leadership isn't about simply getting a job done. It's about people-development.

This is the way Jesus saw leadership. As He walked along the shore of the Sea of Galilee one day, He was looking for men to follow His leadership. But, He wasn't going to just order these new recruits around. He promised a trade-off: If they followed Him, He would develop them into men who knew how to call people into a relationship with God and influence others.

Mark 1:16-18 (New Living Translation)

"One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, 'Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!' And they left their nets at once and followed him."

Who do you influence? Do you just order them around or do you see that it is your job to develop them into better people than they are now? Ideally, those under your authority should like what they are becoming while following you.

Remember, life is short. We aren't here just to get mundane tasks accomplished … as important as they may be. It's all about relationships and helping others get fit for here and Heaven.