Growing as a Leader

"He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm."

Proverbs 13:20

It is common for parents to monitor the growth of their children by marking their height on a wall. Kids can then see how they have grown through their childhood. One dad reported that his 4-year-old called and said, "Daddy, Daddy, you won't believe it, I've grown inches since you went to work." One mom posted on Facebook that her three children had grown three to six inches over the summer and announced she was now the shortest member of the tribe.

Just as physical growth is important, our growth as leaders is vitally important. The leader you were yesterday should not be the leader you are tomorrow. The Apostle Paul compels us to "grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ." Solomon states that when you connect with the experienced and the sensible, you grow. When you are walking with the wise you "grow wise." Being a student of good, great, and godly leaders has tremendous benefits.

I appreciate the story of Elijah and Elisha found in I and II Kings. Elisha was destined to be a Prophet of God but he needed the mentoring and coaching of the veteran prophet, Elijah. It would have been easy to bail and return to his family farm, but he was determined to stay close to the Prophet. The result was amazing.

There are a number of reasons leaders grow. One reason is being intentional about it. I challenge you to take some deliberate steps in the coming months.

Eight Ways to Grow:

1. Choose to grow in your leadership skills.
2. Purposefully spend time with the wise and experienced.
3. Take time to read God's Word and pray.
4. Start a personal growth journal.
5. Decide to not take the easy way out of a challenge.
6. Read one book a month on leadership or ministry.
7. Attend the 2014 Network Intermission.
8. Engage with a personal OMN Ministry Coach to walk with you for nine months.

My friend Dr. Don Detrick has just released a new book entitled, "Growing Disciples Organically".
I suggest you consider adding this to your reading list.

Stay relentless.