Lead

John 21:15-17 “When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ He said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ He said to him a second time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ He said to him, ‘Tend my sheep.’  He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ and he said to him, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.’”

Think

Have you ever scrolled through the classifieds in an old newspaper, or maybe checked out the job listings on a site like Indeed, hunting for that perfect opportunity, the one you've been dreaming about and planning for? Perhaps you've even received one of those emails that starts with, "We have an amazing opportunity for you." It's like the universe is saying, "Hey, here's your chance!"

But let's talk about a different kind of opportunity, one that's a bit more universal and timeless: the opportunity to lead. Yep, you heard that right. Whether you're flipping burgers or running a Fortune 500 company, whether you're a stay-at-home parent or a globe-trotting entrepreneur, leadership is for you.

Why do I say that with such confidence? Well, because if you're someone who follows the teachings of Christ, then you're already signed up for the leadership program. Seriously, it's part of the package deal.

Think about it this way. God, the Ultimate Leader, didn't create us to be mindless drones. No, he made us with spirits and the ability to choose, so we could follow him willingly. And even when we messed up (Thanks, Adam and Eve!), God didn't just write us off. Instead, he invited us to join him in his grand plan for redemption, to be leaders in spreading his message of love and grace.

This quote by J. Oswald Chambers sums it up perfectly: "Leadership is influence." And as followers of Christ, we're called to be influencers. Jesus put it like this: "You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world." In other words, you're here to make a difference, to shine brightly and show others the way to God.

So whether you're changing diapers or making big business decisions, whether you're leading a team at work or just being a good friend, remember this: you're an influencer, you're a leader. And that's not just a job title – it's a calling.

Apply

Read Hebrews 10:24 "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” How can you encourage and empower someone today? How can you recognize and nurture their potential?

Pray

Lord, help me to lead with wisdom and integrity whether it is in my business or my home. I give you all the challenges that I face in my role as a leader and ask for guidance and discernment. I surrender my plans and goals to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.