Introduction To The Leader's Journeyنموونە

INTRODUCTION TO THE LEADER'S JOURNEY Day SIX: Going the Distance Devotion What is the hardest mile of a marathon? Hint — it is usually not mile 26. Runners rarely quit with the finish line in sight. Most runners will tell you it is somewhere between miles 18-22 that things get really hard. The Leader’s Journey is much like a marathon. Many leaders drop out on those lonely mundane miles between the middle and tail end of their careers. Sadly, when spiritual leaders forfeit the finish line, they lose their blessing, the Kingdom takes a hit, and God is robbed of the honor He deserves. There is an old Haitian proverb that says, “beyond mountains, there are mountains.” Leaders who go the distance know they never "arrive" on this side of Heaven. There is always another mountain to climb on the journey. Mountaintops are great because they give us a sense of accomplishment and provide a view of the next mountain. But trees and wildlife can only flourish up to a certain point, Most growth happens in the valleys. The same can be said for The Leader's Journey. Those who stay the course, through the ups and downs of the journey, grow the most and finish the best. The question becomes, “How does a leader stay faithful?” If you intend to go from mountain to mountain the following reminders can help: Set Your Course. The Bible tells us to set our minds on things above, not on things below. The next time you are tempted to get off the path, remember WHOSE you are and WHAT matters most. Read the Map. The best leaders are wise leaders, and wisdom comes from above. If you want to grow in your ability to navigate the terrain, spend time in God’s map book, the Bible, everyday. Ask for Help. Prayer gives you instant access to God’s direction and provision. An expedition is much easier when you go with a guide. The Leader’s Journey is no different — you don’t need to feel alone. Drop to your knees daily and ask God to help you stay the course. Guard Your Heart. You can work on your leadership skills all you want, but remember, if your heart is not right, no one cares about your skills. The best leaders are as concerned about growing their character and integrity as they are their results. They heed the Biblical challenge, “Above all else guard your heart, for that is where your life comes from.” Prayer — God, I praise you for giving me the gift of leadership and for continually encouraging me to grow. I pray you will help me to guard my heart and stay faithful on the journey. Please continue to increase my territory of influence. Grant me the courage to lead with diligence, and may the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. To go deeper on the leader's journey, download the InteGREAT Leadership App on your mobile device. to connect with the authors visit: [ https://danwebster.com ](http://danwebster.com/) [ https://randygravitt.com ](http://randygravitt.com/)