Effective Leadership
The Apostle Paul said, "Follow my example, as I follow
the example of Christ."1
I have read how "H. Gordon Selfridge built up one of the world's largest
department stores in London. He achieved success by being a leader, not a boss.
Here is his comparison of the two types of executives:
The boss drives his men, the leader coaches them.
The boss depends on authority, the leader on good will.
The boss inspires fear, the leader enthusiasm.
The boss says "I", the leader says, "we".
The boss fixes the blame for the breakdown, the leader fixes the breakdown.
The boss knows how it is done, the leader shows how.
The boss says "Go", the leader says, "Let's go!"2
The greatest way to lead is by example. This principle also applies to
parenting, because unless we model what we say and teach, our words may do more
to drive our children away from, rather than draw them to the good we desire
for them to learn and put into practice. Children catch on pretty quickly when
we are being hypocritical, and we will lose their trust because of it.
Being a vivid example is especially true when it comes to modeling authentic
Christianity. While the right words at the right time are very important, our
everyday actions will be what people see, and ultimately opens the door for
them to know Jesus.
Suggested prayer: Dear God, help me be genuine and authentic in all that I do
and say so that my life will model what it means to be a true Christian and
follower of Jesus Christ. First for my family, and then for every person you
allow me to encounter. Thank you, in the name of Jesus, amen.
1. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV).
2. Gordon Selfridge. Cited in Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations, by
Paul Lee Tan, Page 719. Assurance Publishers, Rockville, Maryland. © 1979.
Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B.
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