INSPIRING GENIUS IN THE PEOPLE YOU LEAD – PART 2
A leader who lacks the ability to inspire the inherent potential within their team often exhibits a form of mental lethargy, characterized by an unwillingness to engage deeply with their thoughts or exert the necessary cognitive effort. This notion is echoed in Proverbs 12:24 of the New Living Translation, which states that lazy individuals do not even utilize the game they catch, while diligent individuals make the most of every opportunity. The situation in Nigeria, as highlighted by Miss Ademosu, illustrates this point vividly; the country ranks poorly in poverty statistics, reflecting a broader cultural tendency to undervalue intellectual engagement in favor of physical labor. This mindset is evident in the way natural resources, such as crude oil, are exported unrefined, while those who process these resources into more valuable products reap greater rewards.
The challenge lies in the ability of leaders to transform raw ideas into actionable plans through the application of mental energy. Each idea presented to a leader is akin to unprocessed cocoa; it holds potential but requires effort and creativity to elevate it to a more valuable form, such as chocolate. The expectation is that leaders will harness their cognitive resources to refine these ideas, much like turning lemons into lemonade when faced with adversity.
This process of transformation is essential for realizing the full potential of the ideas entrusted to them, and it underscores the importance of mental diligence in leadership.
By embracing this approach, leaders can foster an environment where innovation thrives and the collective potential of their teams is fully realized.
The divine endowment of creativity has been bestowed upon humanity, as God initiated the process of creation and entrusted the continuation of this work to us. A leader who embodies creativity and demands mental rigor can serve as a source of inspiration for those around them. Observing such a leader, individuals are often filled with admiration and a desire to unlock their own potential. The biblical narrative illustrates this concept through the example of Adam, who was provided with a tree but not a chair. The implication is clear: when one finds discomfort, it is their responsibility to innovate and transform their surroundings, such as by crafting a comfortable seat from the resources at hand. This notion underscores the importance of proactive leadership, contrasting it with mediocrity, which is characterized by a lack of initiative and creativity.
Mediocre leadership is often marked by an inability to cope with challenges, leading to a sense of being easily overwhelmed by minor issues. Such leaders struggle to inspire greatness in their teams, as their own limitations hinder their capacity to motivate others. The wisdom found in Proverbs highlights that failure in times of adversity stems not from the challenges themselves but from a deficiency in personal strength. When faced with pressure, the true measure of a leader is revealed; those who falter are often described as lacking resilience. The narrative of David exemplifies this principle, as he confronted threats with courage and determination, demonstrating that the perception of overwhelming problems is often a reflection of the individual’s mindset rather than the actual challenges at hand. In essence, it is the inner strength and resolve of a leader that determines their effectiveness, rather than the external circumstances they face.
This is precisely why, upon witnessing Goliath, David, despite being a mere boy, ignited a spark of inspiration in those who observed him. The women, captivated by his bravery, began to extol his virtues, proclaiming, “Saul has slain his thousands, but David his ten thousands.” It is remarkable to consider how one could juxtapose the king of Israel, a man described in the scriptures as towering above his peers, with a young boy. This illustrates the profound impact of inspiration, which can emerge even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, such as Goliath. Within this gathering, there are indeed individuals capable of overcoming giants; a resounding affirmation to that notion would be appreciated. The emergence of the giant-slayer within oneself is contingent upon the refusal to be daunted by minor obstacles and trivial concerns.
Reflecting on the early days of Elevation Church, I recall the time when my wife and I were navigating the challenges of parenthood with our young daughters, who were merely four and five years old at the time. Now, as they have matured into teenagers, I recognize that no marriage is devoid of imperfections; rather, we experience varying degrees of success in our relationships. Every marriage is a continuous journey of growth and development, and it is essential to prioritize foundational principles to foster a healthy partnership. I vividly remember a conversation with my wife during a particularly tumultuous moment, where I pointed out that we were leading a small congregation of about two hundred members while raising our young children. I drew a parallel to then-President Barack Obama, who was managing the complexities of leading the most powerful nation on earth, yet still faced personal challenges with his spouse. This realization shifted my perspective, allowing me to view our struggles as minor inconveniences that could be addressed with clarity and intention.
Today, I can assert with confidence that our marriage serves as a source of inspiration for those around us. People are drawn to us, witnessing the love and connection we share. While our relationship may not be flawless, it is undoubtedly a positive one. It is essential to encourage one another, reminding ourselves that perfection is a journey rather than a destination. In the biblical narrative found in 1 Samuel chapter 30, we encounter a significant moment in David’s life. Upon returning to Ziklag, he faced a devastating situation where the Amalekites had ravaged the city, taking away his family and possessions. David was understandably overwhelmed by this calamity, and while it is natural to experience such feelings temporarily, it is crucial for a leader to rise above them and inspire those they lead.
David’s initial response included tears, which is a valid expression of grief, as the scripture acknowledges that “weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” However, if one remains in a state of despair for too long, as David could have, the consequences can be dire. His followers, initially supportive, might have turned against him, contemplating violence due to their own dwindling inspiration.
It is vital for a leader to maintain a level of inspirational value; otherwise, they risk losing the support of their community.
If a leader cannot uplift those around them or help them grow, it is better to leave them as they are rather than lead them into a state of decline.
If David had not ceased his weeping, he would have faced dire consequences, as the crowd was already inclined to stone him. Their intentions were clear, and it was only by a stroke of fortune that he resolved to change his mindset, declaring that he would not allow himself to be consumed by despair. It is essential to encourage those around us to rise above their struggles; as Pastor Nike articulated recently, it is crucial to halt the emotional turmoil. We must urge one another to stop the tears and the pain, fostering an environment where inspiration can flourish. Let us give glory to Jesus for the strength to overcome such challenges.
Furthermore, a leader lacking in confidence is often susceptible to the influences of witchcraft and sorcery, particularly in regions where such beliefs are prevalent. It is a common tendency to label others as adversaries, as if one is the sole bearer of misfortune, while in reality, we all share similar backgrounds. The moment adversity strikes, the instinct is to attribute it to malevolent forces. However, it is vital to remember the wisdom found in Proverbs 26:2, which states that a curse without cause will not take effect. The scripture also reassures us that Christ has liberated us from the curse of the law, allowing the blessings of Abraham to be bestowed upon those who believe. By exercising our spiritual authority and confronting these negative influences, we can inspire those around us rather than instill fear. It is imperative for leaders to recognize their power over such forces and refrain from using them as a crutch, as doing so diminishes their ability to inspire and uplift others.
A mediocre leader often finds comfort in the status quo, lacking the drive to inspire those around them. In Philippians 3:14, Paul emphasizes the importance of focusing on the future, stating, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” This notion highlights that a leader who is complacent and unmotivated will struggle to uplift their team. For instance, if one has been in a position for three years without any advancement, it is crucial to reassess one’s situation. Rather than accepting stagnation, individuals should consider seeking new opportunities, whether that means pursuing a promotion within their current organization or exploring different career paths that align with their aspirations. The journey towards improvement begins with a desire for growth and a refusal to remain in a state of mediocrity.
The distinction between contentment and containment is vital in this context. Contentment allows individuals to appreciate their current circumstances while remaining focused on future goals, fostering a sense of gratitude for the present as they strive for greater achievements. In contrast, containment signifies a resignation to one’s current situation, suggesting that one has reached a final destination in life. The scripture from 1 Timothy 6:6 underscores that “godliness with contentment is great gain,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between being thankful for what one has and actively pursuing further growth. It is essential to cultivate a mindset that embraces contentment without falling into the trap of containment, thereby enabling individuals to continue striving for excellence and fulfillment in their lives.
As I reflect on my upbringing in this community, I recognize the profound impact of leadership and goal-setting that has shaped my journey. Each year, we established objectives that propelled us forward, a practice instilled in me by my pastor, a remarkable leader who motivates others to lead. This commitment to setting goals signifies a desire for growth and progress; it embodies the notion that while we may find contentment in our current circumstances, we refuse to be confined by them. Being part of Daystar Christian Center has reinforced this principle, as it emphasizes the importance of aspiring to greater heights.
The act of goal-setting is a declaration of our intent to remain dynamic and engaged, rather than stagnant.
Moreover, true leadership requires a willingness to challenge the status quo and confront mediocrity. A leader who seeks to inspire must actively reject complacency and the excuses that often accompany it. The story of the man at the pool of Bethesda, as discussed by Pastor Nike, serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of making excuses. His prolonged inaction, despite being in a place of potential healing for eighteen years, illustrates how easy it is to become trapped in a cycle of justification. In my own life, I have faced significant challenges, including the loss of a leg shortly after birth, yet I resolved to rise above my circumstances without resorting to excuses. This determination to embrace life fully, regardless of obstacles, is what truly inspires others and exemplifies the essence of effective leadership.