Day 13: Legacy and Leadership
Welcome to Day 13 of our 30-day journey through Purpose Driven Legacy. Today, we’re going to explore the connection between legacy and leadership. Effective leadership, rooted in Christian values, can leave a lasting impact on others and contribute significantly to the legacy we build.
Biblical Leadership
The Bible offers numerous examples of leaders who left enduring legacies through their faithfulness and commitment to God. From Moses to David to Jesus Christ, these leaders demonstrated the qualities that God values and calls us to emulate. Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest” (KJV).
Why Leadership Matters for Legacy
- Influences Others: As leaders, our actions and decisions have a profound impact on those we lead. By living out Christian values, we can positively influence others and inspire them to pursue their own God-given purposes. Matthew 5:16 encourages us, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (KJV).
- Demonstrates God’s Love: Leadership provides opportunities to demonstrate God’s love and grace. By leading with compassion and humility, we reflect Christ’s character to those around us. John 13:34-35 says, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (KJV).
- Fulfills God’s Purpose: Effective leadership helps fulfill God’s purpose for our lives and the lives of those we lead. By guiding others according to God’s will, we contribute to His kingdom and leave a lasting legacy. Proverbs 16:3 states, “Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established” (KJV).
Qualities of a Godly Leader
Here are some key qualities of a godly leader, rooted in Scripture, that can help us build a lasting legacy:
- Servant Leadership: Jesus modeled servant leadership, putting the needs of others before His own. As leaders, we are called to serve those we lead. Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many” (KJV).
- Humility: A godly leader recognizes their dependence on God and leads with humility. Philippians 2:3-4 encourages us, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others” (KJV).
- Integrity: Integrity is essential for building trust and credibility as a leader. Proverbs 11:3 states, “The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them” (KJV).
- Wisdom: A godly leader seeks wisdom from God to make sound decisions and guide others effectively. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him” (KJV).
- Faithfulness: Being faithful in our responsibilities and commitments reflects our dedication to God’s will. 1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (KJV).
Living Out Leadership
Living out godly leadership requires intentionality and reliance on God’s strength. Here are some steps to help you lead effectively and leave a lasting legacy:
- Seek God’s Guidance: Regularly pray for God’s guidance and wisdom in your leadership. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (KJV).
- Lead by Example: Model the values and behaviors you want to see in others. 1 Peter 5:3 advises, “Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock” (KJV).
- Encourage and Empower Others: Support and empower those you lead to reach their full potential. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us, “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (KJV).
- Remain Accountable: Be accountable to God and others for your actions and decisions. Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (KJV).
Leadership and Your Legacy
Effective, godly leadership is essential for building a lasting legacy that honors God. By leading with integrity, humility, and faithfulness, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those we lead and contribute to God’s kingdom.
Thank you for joining me today. Tomorrow, we will share some compelling personal stories from Purpose Driven Legacy that illustrate key points about leadership and legacy. I look forward to continuing this journey with you.
As always, I encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments or on social media. Your insights and reflections are valuable to our community.