Focused Leadership… “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead…” Philippians 3:13
Paul understood and applied focused leadership. Under extreme conditions he remained vigilant to plant churches and preach the gospel, even in the face of hostile resistance. So, in uncertain times, I have to look into the mirror and ask, ‘Am I focused on the task at hand, or am I distracted by critics and circumstances?’ Focused leadership finds a way.
Perhaps you take a more direct leadership role, so the team can draft off your intensity. For example, consider attending or even leading the sales meetings for a season. Help the team discover creative ways to retain current customers and attract new ones. Be available to serve in ways and at times that strategically creates momentum and excels execution. Focused leadership strips back to the essentials of getting the right results.
Focused leadership also applies at home. If finances have spiraled out of control, the husband is to take responsibility and loving lead his wife and children to wise and frugal expenditures. Everyone sacrifices something during tight economic times. You may need to sell a car, or explain to your teenager the only affordable option is in-state tuition.
Until you change, the organization or your family won’t. Apathy and inertia are not options; the focused leader allows only intense interest and forward motion. Draw a circle around your feet, kneel down and ask God for wisdom and discernment, starting with your own leadership transformation. Focus on your Heavenly Father and He will lead you to successfully lead. Prayerfully ask, ‘Is my heart on Him?’ “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…” (Philippians 3:8a).
Related Readings: Joshua 1:7; 1 Kings 8:61; Luke 10:42; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?
How will I respond?
