Follow great leaders
Have you ever followed the wrong person? Embarrassing, isn’t it? Whether you’re following a tour guide who takes a wrong turn or hiking after a troop leader who gets lost in the forest, it’s always painful, isn’t it?
The Bible tells us that the Apostle Paul was so confident in his leadership ability that he said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1, NIV) Quite a claim, isn’t it?
Recently, I spoke at a corporate event in Italy at a beautiful resort in Tuscany. My friend, Jeff Williams, wanted me to reward the top sales associates of his growing company. It was incredible and amazing. I felt so blessed to spend time with corporate leaders in a non-church setting. Don’t get me wrong—I love my church—but it is so rewarding to venture beyond the four walls of the church to be salt and light in businesses, theaters, sports arenas, and science labs.
friend, isn’t that your real world, too? Aren’t you called to be salt and light to your world? I believe we are called to follow Paul’s example to go. Didn’t Jesus say, “‘Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit’” (Matthew 28:19, NIV)? So Denise and I went on this incredible trip to rub shoulders with brilliant business people and share a few nuggets of wisdom that could help them go further.
During one part of the journey, I regrettably followed the wrong leader. We were invited on a group bicycle ride through the countryside. It was supposed to be relaxing and beautiful, but our leader decided to take us off-roading in the hills of massive vineyards. Several people fell off their bikes, some were injured, and all of us regretted following Umberto.
friend, I am praying you will find great pastors, teachers, coaches, and employers. John Maxwell did say, “your associations will determine your destination.” So please ask the Holy Spirit to guide you because too often leaders will leave an imprint on you, just like Umberto’s leadership left several scars on our bodies.
Be careful whom you follow because you are called to be a miracle.
