Word for Youth

The essence of leadership

To be worthy of a following, you need more than talent and a title. The essence of leadership lies in doing two things. 1) Going first! ‘Cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites.’ That means if God has called you to lead, you must step out in faith and go first. That requires believing in yourself and your mission. Reaching a goal takes more than just working hard; it also takes believing the right thing. God told Joshua, ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go’ (v. 9 NIV). You don’t need all the answers upfront. Your confidence comes from knowing that God is with you – and ahead of you. 2) Taking others with you. ‘Leading your brothers, helping them’ (v. 14 MSG). If you’re wondering, ‘How long do I have to keep helping and investing in this person?’ the answer is until ‘they also…take possession of the land that God…is giving them’ (v.15 MSG). Many people will serve when they’re made to, and some will serve in a crisis. But when you have a servant’s heart, you initiate service to others. You see the need, seize the opportunity, and serve, knowing God sees your heart and appreciates you. Therefore you serve with gladness (see Psalm 100:2). So here’s the deal: you only qualify to enjoy the privileges of leadership when you’re willing to go first and then take others with you. But that’s not the end of the story. God said, ‘After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which…the Lord gave you’ (Joshua 1:15 NIV).