Generosity: A Candle Loses Nothing by Lighting Another

If great leaders err, they do so on the side of generosity. They are givers, not takers. They feel motivated to:

1. Serve others — to help them grow and thrive.

2. Solve problems — that prevent potential from being reached.

3. Save causes — that benefit mankind.

God instructs His leaders and the entire nation of Israel to imitate His generosity and grace. At the end of every seventh year, every Israelite was to cancel all debts owed by fellow citizens. If they would indeed cancel debts, model graciousness and forgiveness, and care for the poor, He would favor their land with abundant crops and freedom from invasion. Imagine! They simply needed to trust that God was in control and let Him worry about rain and sun and fruitful harvest times.

God’s instruction here provides us with a reminder of the nature of true leadership. We don’t keep score with people; we just keep on giving.

Taken from The Maxwell Leadership Bible