The Power of the GROUP

There is a good book out called "The 100 Most Important Bible Verses for Leaders" published by the W Publishing Group.  As I have been reading this book, God has been doing some amazing things in my heart and mind.  This book is good for leaders who don't want to stay the same.  If you're a leader who is content with the status quo then just stop reading now.  But if you are a leader with a desire to grow and become the most effective leader you can be, let God's Word work into your heart.

"Get advice if you want your plans to work.  If you go to war, get the advice of others."
                                                                                                     -Proverbs 10:18

From this verse we know that it is God who designed leaders to have accountability.  Now, everyone needs accountability in order to grow in their faith, but leaders need special accountability.  Whether you're the leader of a large corporation, or a pastor of a small church, listen to this advice:  Leaders need an effective GROUP of advisors.  These advisers are different people who can offer advice, direction, and accountability,  to  a leader.  These advisors should have five qualities as follows:  Godly wisdom, Realism, Optimism, Understanding, and Perseverance.

It is my belief that every leader should seek first godly wisdom.  Wisdom that comes from God is tested, true and universal.  Therefore a leader should have an adviser who offers godly wisdom.  Second a leader should have someone who offers a dose of realism.  Please note, a realist is not a pessimist. You should be careful that you don't mistake one for the other.  The realist gives you, as the book says, the perspective of "the good, the bad, and the ugly".  The optimistic looks at the great opportunities and possibilities.  Both, together, are healthy but apart they can be destructive.  Next the leader should have someone who offers understanding.  This understanding is a reminding of the mission, vision, and values.  The person with understanding helps leaders stay on the path that has been laid out in the corporation's strategic plan.  (Which, if you don't have one, in order to be successful, you should get one!) The last quality is perseverance.  The group should persevere through any decision big and small, tough or easy, short term or long term.

If a leader surrounds himself with a GROUP of advisers his or her plans will succeed.  You can take that to the bank.