Lead Me

Would you consider yourself a leader or a follower?

There are some who enjoy being leaders while others are content being followers. You may wonder which is better and some may even consider a follower as the weaker of the two, but I would disagree and challenge this point of view because I don't believe that is the case. Today I hope you gain a fresh perspective of how a follower can be just as influential as a leader.

When you think of a leader what characteristics to mind? For me, a leader is a person who has the ability to influence others in a positive way because they are mindful and intentional with what they say and do. They tend to be optimistic and always view the glass half full rather than half empty. A good leader provides direction, motivation, and inspiration as they lead people towards a common goal.

Does a follower have the ability to have the same characteristics as a leader? Absolutely! Yet some people view themselves as a follower because they lack confidence in themselves and their ability to lead. I would challenge this mindset as well because God has already instilled the leadership ability within each one of us (Psalm 139:13-16) but it requires us to believe it and to step out in faith as we trust God to guide and direct our steps.

Psalm 32:8 NIV

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;

I will counsel you and watch over you."

The Bible gives numerous examples of followers who were influential, look at the prophets and the disciples for example. The disciples were followers of Jesus, and they impacted the lives around them as they performed miracles and preached the gospel.

Matthew 16:24 NIV "Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."

So, whether you consider yourself a leader or a follower know that they are both influential. Always remember that God has given you the ability to impact those around you in a positive way. Use every opportunity you are given to share the gospel and to encourage one another. You don't have to be proficient in the Bible, you just need to share your life experiences when God has been gracious or merciful towards you and they will come to know Him.

I love the quote below because I think it's true, "our lives may be the only Bible some people read." Pay attention to your words and actions because you have the ability to harm or help people and we want to be a reflection of Jesus' examples.

One of the leaders I enjoy reading about in the Bible the most is David. Because God says "he was a man after his own heart." Acts 13:22 we all know David was a sinner and even a murderer and yet God still loved him because David repented of his sins. This gives me hope!

There is a particular Scripture that David wrote that I like to read often, it's Psalm 139:23-24 because David reminds me to be mindful of my own sin and to verify where I am being led astray (whether by my own selfish desires or by others) so that God can lead me in the way everlasting!

Psalm 139:23-24 NIV

"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

I like reading different Bible versions of this passage because it helps us gain a greater understanding of it.

I hope you enjoy listening to this song: Lead Me

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime