Some Thoughts on Effective Leadership, Part Two

Learning to lead, truly lead, is a matter of INFLUENCE. Thus to be a true leader is to be a person of influence. But how? For a Christian, there is only one way --- CHARACTER.

It’s not about your strengths, it’s about your weaknesses.

If leadership is not about power but influence, and influence is not about trying to change other people but me - my character, then my character development is the main issue. I must work on my character because the more responsibility I get, the more personal change is required.

How do I do this? I cultivate my strengths, right?

It is important to remember that we are only as mature as the least mature aspect of our lives. Our maturity is marred by immaturity. If we desire to walk in maturity we must shore up the weaknesses in our areas of immaturity.

It is natural to focus on your strengths.

If a person wants to improve --- they generally try to emulate the strengths they see in another. People are naturally drawn to us by observing our strengths. This is a form of influence. BUT --- the closer they get to you, the more your weaknesses begin to show. The more they see your weaknesses, the less influence you will have.

God expects those who lead to walk in integrity. Psalm 78:72 gives a picture of the strength of David’s leadership: “So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands.”

Integrity and skill in leading: it demands we know our weaknesses. But how?

When you look in the mirror, can you see your weaknesses? We should pray that God would reveal the areas in our character that need the attention of His grace. If, when you look in the mirror, all you see are your strengths --- GOD IS THROUGH USING YOU!

The Fear and Necessity of Feedback.

Most influential leaders depend on feedback from others. This is a fearful thing. A life lived with transparent integrity must be open to feedback from those around you – you need the accountability – you need their VIEW.

Feedback is not for the faint of heart. You must have courage if you are going to ask for – and accept – feedback.

Leadership is not what you do --- it is who you are.

Leadership is INFLUENCE and influence is CHARACTER. The reason a leader lacks influence can most often be traced back to his/her character flaws. Surrounded by those who can give feedback --- overcoming our blind spots --- a leader is allowed to focus on his character weaknesses and begin to deal with them in God’s strength. True character is witnessed even as we deal with our weaknesses. This means we are no longer trying to be like someone else or, as is so common, trying to conceal our weaknesses by being certain everyone sees our strengths. This deception is deadly to influence.

For the most important position of influence, that of shepherding the flock of God, Peter charged: “Shepherd the flock of God among you … proving to be an example to the flock.” WE MUST LEAD BY EXAMPLE IN OUR CONDUCT AND IN OUR CHARACTER.

Tomorrow, An Action Plan