Servant Leadership

The power of influence 

"Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone – and even by the truth itself."
3 John 1:12 NIV 

Compare these two stories: the first is about a major cross-country race in Malaysia that covered a seven-mile course. Two hours after the race began there wasn’t a runner in sight, so the officials became concerned. When they sent out a car to find them, they discovered that all of them were at least six miles away, running in the wrong direction. What happened? The runner leading the pack took a wrong turn at the fifth check point. And all the others followed him. 

The second story is about a sociology class that conducted a study of 200 young people from the inner city of Baltimore. It concluded, "Not one of them has a chance." Twenty- five years later a sociology professor did a follow-up study, and located 180 of the original 200. Of that number, 176 had become doctors, lawyers, ministers, and successful business people. When he asked each of them how they were able to escape their predicted future, they all pointed to one teacher. The professor found that teacher, and asked her what she’d done to make such an impact on them. She just smiled and said, "I loved them, and they knew it!" 

Paul writes, "Love never fails" (1 Corinthians 13:8 NIV). John Maxwell says, "During your lifetime you will directly or indirectly influence the lives of at least 10,000 other people." The question you need to ask yourself is: "How will I influence them?"

Prayer point:

Father, I know I can’t do everything on my own. If there is arrogance or pride in my heart, please reveal it to me and root it out. Give me the wisdom to lead others with love and humility. I know that You have designed Your people to work together, so help me delight in the unity of teamwork. Amen.