Jesus Style Leadership 3 - Crop & FaithSample

The Leadership Marathon

Leadership Lesson

Jesus-style leadership is a lifelong marathon. It’s not a sprint.

Read 1 Timothy 4:6–8.

Comment

As Paul writes these words, he is facing Roman execution after a long life of Jesus-style leadership. The three metaphors he uses to describe his ministry are all pictures of persistence: (1) Fighting a good fight to the end; (2) Finishing a marathon race; (3) Holding on to the faith over a lifetime. Despite all the challenges and opposition, he has kept pursuing God and serving others right to the finish line. As Paul indicates, Jesus-style leadership is not a sprint. You can’t give it all you’ve got for a short period and then sign off for a break. It’s a marathon that involves the rest of your life. This is good news. You have lots of time to develop influence and grow a Crop. You don’t have to be in a hurry. Maybe you would like to see more happening through your leadership. Maybe you would like more opportunities. Don’t worry; you have years and years to make a difference for God. Be patient. But you do need to build a solid foundation if you are going to last a lifetime, like Paul. These devotions are helping you do this. Keep learning. Keep growing. Keep praying. As Paul points out, it’s an incredibly rewarding journey when you make it to the end.

Prayer

I’m a long way from finishing the race, Lord, but I want to do this part of my leadership journey well. Teach me and help me lay strong foundations as a Jesus-style leader. When I get frustrated or discouraged and feel like pulling back, please give me the strength and courage to continue to believe and serve. I’ve counted the cost, Lord, and I want You to know that I am in this for the long haul.

Personal Reflection

Think of someone you know who has been leading for a long time. If possible, talk to them about what has helped them persevere as a man or woman of God. If you can’t talk to them, have a guess as to what their answers might be.