The question is often asked, “Are leaders born or made?”
I don’t know what difference it makes. What matters most is the influence quotient. We are certainly not born with influence. Our behaviors create it.
I believe we are all gifted by God to lead. It’s an important gift for work in the kingdom. We are born again to lead others to Christ. So, it’s probably fair to conclude that we have been given a gift to do what is required of us.
But we are not given a gift of influence. We develop influence as a result of decisions we make and how we treat people. Positional leaders may have a leadership mantle, but without influence, there aren’t people to lead.
Love is the foundation of influence. The love displayed by a leader isn’t always accompanied by a bouquet of roses. But recognition is a display of appreciation and love.
Recognition builds influence.
Influence is not birthed out of some entitlement. Positional authority is not a catalyst for influence. Trust builds influence.
It’s not a surprise that many young leaders feel entitled to influence. Schools and team events have been dishing out criticism-free training. Participation awards encourage no differentiation among abilities. Sadly, many young leaders demand to be trusted. But the speed of trust is determined by behavior.
Leaders are drawn by the Holy Spirit to learn how to lead.
Today’s Scripture
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, so that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
Platform Tip No. 138
Some leaders are afraid that a platform will become all about them and that a platform is self-serving.
If there are hurting people who need your message, shout it from the highest hill. If it is about them, it won’t be about you.
Keep shouting.
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