Leadership Priorities

"And God says, 'I'm gonna turn it into something different. I'm gonna turn it into something good. I'm gonna take all the broken pieces and make something beautiful like only I could.' So put it all in the hands of the Father. Give it up; give it all over to the only One Who can turn it into something beautiful." Steven Curtis Chapman sings those lyrics in his song, "Something Beautiful." He goes further to say (from God's viewpoint), "'When I get through, you're gonna be amazed.'" There's no better place to be, or to put our trust, than the hands of God!

The central verse for tonight is Joshua 24:15: "'Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.'" (NIV)

Maxwell says, "Starting at home is always the key to affecting others in a positive way." Priorities are important, especially in leadership. We must be able to efficiently prioritize and organize our responsibilities. First and foremost, we must put God above all else. He is our Father, the Ultimate Leader. From there, we must take care of our families. 1 Timothy 5:8 says, "If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." Does that put the importance of this topic in perspective? Maxwell reiterates, "If you have a family, put them first in your leadership. There's no legacy like that of the positive influence leader can exercise with their family."

The movie Courageous depicts this principle. Its tagline is, "Honor Begins at Home." Furthermore, Casting Crowns' song bearing the same title tells us, "We were made to be courageous. We were made to lead the way."

Tonight's reflection question asks, "Where do your influences begin?"

My mom raised me to believe in and rely on God. I trust Him to help and guide me. There are times when I fail, but, thankfully, God forgives me when I fall short. We should thank God for that wonderful gift! We can pray this simple prayer: "Father, please lead me so that I can lead others well. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen!"

As leaders, it is critical that we have our priorities in the right order, especially when it comes to relationships. God must come first. Then we need to take care of our families. After that we can take care of others. Let God lead you so that you can lead others effectively.

God bless you!