Day 28: Be Studious

We’re closing out the final three days of this plan the same way we started: by focusing on deeper discipleship and a deeper connection with God. Why? Because the journey of the Christian leader begins and ends with Christ.

One of the most transformative commitments we can make as leaders is to become lifelong learners—students of both the Word and our world.

Ezra, the Lifelong Learner

In Ezra 7, we meet a leader whose life was shaped by intentional study and application of God’s Word. His favor with the king wasn’t accidental. His leadership influence was rooted in his commitment to learn, obey, and teach.

“[6] This Ezra was a scribe who was well versed in the Law of Moses, which the Lord, the God of Israel, had given to the people of Israel…The king gave him everything he asked for, because the gracious hand of the Lord his God was on him…[10] This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel.”

-Ezra 7:6, 9–10 (NLT)

From Ezra, we learn three key truths:

• Study first. Teach and lead second.
• Applied knowledge leads to lasting impact.
• Diligence builds trust.

Ezra’s commitment to learning positioned him to influence not just people, but kings. His example shows us that leaders who study with intentionality earn God’s favor and the trust of others.

What Does Studious Leadership Look Like?

1. Study your peers and predecessors.

Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and Marine Corps legend General James “Mad Dog” Mattis put it bluntly:

“If you haven’t read hundreds of books…you are functionally illiterate—you can’t coach and you can’t lead.”

-Call Sign Chaos

In short, studying others is not optional; it’s essential. It prepares us to avoid past mistakes, gain wisdom, and lead with clarity.

2. Be proficient in your profession.

You don’t need to be a technical expert in every detail, but you do need to be competent in your field. Being informed about current trends, tools, and team responsibilities increases your credibility and productivity. It builds your team’s trust in your leadership.

3. Study to diversify your knowledge and experience.

Widen your lens. Expose yourself to different perspectives, cultures, and industries. That kind of exposure enhances creativity and problem-solving.
Don’t have time to read five books a week? Start with 20–30 minutes of podcasts or audiobooks. Rotate between topics that deepen your understanding of faith, leadership, and your team’s areas of expertise.

Foundational Truth:

A studious leader is a sturdy leader. It’s hard to lead effectively in an environment you don’t understand. You don’t have to know everything, but you should know the who, what, when, where, and why of your team’s mission.

Ezra’s legacy was built on learning. Let’s follow his example.

Study. Learn. Grow.