Apples of Gold E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Seitenzahl: 407

Beschreibung

Being a good leader isn't easy. It requires courage, humility, integrity, and compassion. Jesus spoke of true leadership as having the ability to be a remarkable servant. To be a successful leader, you must determine to follow the example of Christ no matter how difficult. There will be a cost. You may be scrutinized, wrongly accused, and pushed toward exhaustion, but take heart; there is a reward waiting for you if you do not give up. And it will be worth it. Apples of Gold is a daily devotional for leaders like you. As you read these inspiring meditations, Scriptures, and prayers, be encouraged that God is for you, and he will give you everything you need to face the challenges you encounter each day. Rest for a moment in his presence and let his grace and peace wash over you. Out of the abundance of his love and wisdom, you will find the strength to persevere in your service to others. Features: - High-grade faux leather provides durability and exquisite tactile appeal. - Heat debossing on faux leather darkens its color, giving the cover a two-tone appearance and creating indentation which shows off the intricate design and varied texture. - Metallic and matte foil finishing touches are elegantly placed to enhance certain features, capturing attention and adding class for an aesthetic appeal. - Sturdy Smyth-sewn binding stitches book signatures together creating durability and allowing pages to lay flat when open. Decorative head and foot bands are also added to further complement the overall design. - Matte art high quality paper with a smooth satin touch provides long-lasting vivid coloration and durability. - A beautiful satin ribbon marker conveniently keeps your place so you can quickly pick up where you left off.

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing

Savage, Minnesota, USA

APPLES OF GOLD

© 2023 by BroadStreet Publishing®

9781424566877 (faux)

9781424566884 (e-book)

Devotional entries composed by Jared Winger.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked ESV are taken from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), Copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked CSB are taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. Scripture quotations marked NASB are taken from the New American Standard Bible, Copyright 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NKJV are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NCV are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked TPT are taken from The Passion Translation® of the Holy Bible. Copyright © 2020 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing®. All rights reserved.

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23 24 25 26 27 28 29 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

HE SHEPHERDED THEM WITH A PURE HEART AND GUIDED THEM WITH HIS SKILLFUL HANDS.

PSALM 78:72 CSB

INTRODUCTION

Being a good leader isn’t easy. It requires courage, humility, integrity, and compassion. Jesus spoke of true leadership as having the ability to be a remarkable servant.

To be a successful leader, you must determine to follow the example of Christ no matter how difficult. There will be a cost. You may be scrutinized, wrongly accused, and pushed toward exhaustion, but take heart; there is a reward waiting for you if you do not give up. And it will be worth it.

Apples of Gold is a daily devotional for leaders like you. As you read these inspiring meditations, Scriptures, and prayers, be encouraged that God is for you, and he will give you everything you need to face the challenges you encounter each day.

Rest for a moment in his presence and let his grace and peace wash over you. Out of the abundance of his love and wisdom, you will find the strength to persevere in your service to others.

Contents

January

January 1: A Good Leader

January 2: Being Purposeful

January 3: Put Together

January 4: Lifegiving Trust

January 5: Building Together

January 6: One Criterion

January 7: Riches of Goodness

January 8: Good Character

January 9: Tension Relief

January 10: Moral Excellence

January 11: Sports Captain

January 12: Choose Today

January 13: Hope Supply

January 14: Well Pleased

January 15: A Satisfied Life

January 16: Private Generosity

January 17: Strength to Change

January 18: Sweet Respite

January 19: Source of All

January 20: The Core Feature

January 21: Perfect Blend

January 22: Connection Matters

January 23: Shift Work

January 24: Digging for Gold

January 25: Keenly Aware

January 26: The Courage Hormone

January 27: Universal Collaboration

January 28: Equal Maturity

January 29: Full Promise

January 30: Spoken Word

January 31: Inspired to Imitate

February

February 1: Recognized Value

February 2: Pause and Consider

February 3: Jubilant

February 4: Diligent Workers

February 5: Being Forthright

February 6: Established Example

February 7: Pushed to Grow

February 8: Deliberate Steps

February 9: Shared Goal

February 10: Not an Outsider

February 11: Tactful Speech

February 12: A Fruitful End

February 13: Seeking Reasons

February 14: Who Love Is

February 15: Reliable Fortress

February 16: Path of Sobriety

February 17: Just Because

February 18: Serve in Compassion

February 19: Game of Perspectives

February 20: In the Face of Fear

February 21: Perfect Peace

February 22: In the Storm

February 23: Eternal Retirement

February 24: Answer to Patience

February 25: Splendid

February 26: True Nourishment

February 27: Remaining Studious

February 28: Running on Empty

March

March 1: Say It Better

March 2: Produce the Environment

March 3: Life Is Short

March 4: Necessary Politeness

March 5: Truly Exceptional

March 6: Principled

March 7: Unlimited

March 8: Ruthless Self-interest

March 9: Prayerful Spirit

March 10: Held Captive

March 11: You Are Needed

March 12: All Beauty

March 13: Refined for Purity

March 14: What and When

March 15: Synchronized

March 16: It Takes a While

March 17: Cheap Alternatives

March 18: Transformed and Renewed

March 19: Hypothermia

March 20: Faith Alone

March 21: Celebrated

March 22: Coherent

March 23: The Key

March 24: Taking a Seat

March 25: Faithful Example

March 26: Dependable Companion

March 27: Inspiration from Where

March 28: Authentic Leaders

March 29: Capable

March 30: Awesome Power

March 31: The Antagonist

April

April 1: Laser Focus

April 2: One Small Act

April 3: Even the Best

April 4: More Evidence

April 5: Welcome the Least

April 6: Desire for Excellence

April 7: Position of Faith

April 8: Performance and Praise

April 9: Peaceful Resolution

April 10: Feast on Abundance

April 11: Simply Serve

April 12: It Is Complete

April 13: Positive Workplace

April 14: Emotional Outburst

April 15: Leadership Sacrifice

April 16: Wholesome Living

April 17: Certified Inspection

April 18: Rite of Passage

April 19: Against the Flow

April 20: Prone to Mercy

April 21: Invested Manager

April 22: Waiting for Patience

April 23: In Sync

April 24: In All You Do

April 25: Trembling World

April 26: Coattails

April 27: Childhood Behavior

April 28: Gifts to Share

April 29: Becoming Influential

April 30: Emotional State

May

May 1: Prove Yourself

May 2: Beauty in Nature

May 3: Groomed

May 4: Speaking Up

May 5: Strong Community

May 6: Friendly Fortitude

May 7: Roadblocks

May 8: Operating in Grace

May 9: Daily Decisions

May 10: Balanced Fear

May 11: Sharp Focus

May 12: Rest in Activity

May 13: Titles

May 14: Universal Solution

May 15: Follow Me

May 16: We Can Laugh

May 17: A Certain Ability

May 18: Extending Kindness

May 19: Good Influence

May 20: Important Alignment

May 21: Core Needs

May 22: Successful Season

May 23: Pause and Remember

May 24: A Mature Team

May 25: The Greatest Hope

May 26: Honorable

May 27: Position in Life

May 28: Precious Life

May 29: Engagement Level

May 30: Connected by Prayer

May 31: In Spite of Failure

June

June 1: Cloudiness and Fog

June 2: The Same

June 3: Discovering Life

June 4: Eternal Promises

June 5: Moot Point

June 6: A Humble Man

June 7: Intonation

June 8: Sympathetic Sacrifice

June 9: Metamorphosis

June 10: All the Money

June 11: The Suffering Aspect

June 12: God’s Art

June 13: Not Just Optimism

June 14: Tremendous

June 15: Be Watchful

June 16: Made Radiant

June 17: Unrestrained Festivity

June 18: Delightful Moments

June 19: Really Listening

June 20: A Cool Breeze

June 21: No Explanation Needed

June 22: The Closest Friend

June 23: Only Boast

June 24: Comparison

June 25: A Pragmatic Approach

June 26: Healthy Independence

June 27: Encouraging Fellowship

June 28: Glorious Handiwork

June 29: The New Earth

June 30: Making Peace

July

July 1: The Right Judge

July 2: Intentional Seeking

July 3: Tranquility

July 4: Fight for Freedom

July 5: A Firm Foundation

July 6: Happiness of God

July 7: Focused Time

July 8: Honoring Marriage

July 9: Flexibility

July 10: Prepared to Survive

July 11: A Centered Life

July 12: Learn to Endure

July 13: Consider Nature

July 14: Shelter in the Storm

July 15: Safeguards

July 16: Recount and Reconcile

July 17: Controlling Chaos

July 18: Sneaky Sins

July 19: Keep Your Word

July 20: Gentleness in Failure

July 21: Get After It

July 22: Guide to Truth

July 23: Measuring Success

July 24: Old Hurts

July 25: Unquestionable

July 26: Shocking

July 27: Affirmed with Affection

July 28: Reason to Be Thankful

July 29: The “Est”

July 30: Patient Discernment

July 31: Careful and Wise

August

August 1: Seeking Guidance

August 2: Happiness High

August 3: Thinking Pattern

August 4: Compelling for Good

August 5: Preceding Reputation

August 6: Edifying Words

August 7: Pleasure of People

August 8: Steady Path

August 9: Meek or Weak

August 10: Filled with Praise

August 11: Unwind and Relax

August 12: Refinement

August 13: Holy Ground

August 14: Keep Digging

August 15: Without Arrogance

August 16: Special Skills

August 17: Whatever Age

August 18: Pattern of Persistence

August 19: Reasonable People

August 20: Give to Caesar

August 21: Good Timing

August 22: Always There

August 23: Do Not Forget

August 24: Active Participant

August 25: Not an Eeyore

August 26: Driven to Do

August 27: Commanding Respect

August 28: Invisible Qualities

August 29: Quiet Moments

August 30: The Old Monk

August 31: Accountability Matters

September

September 1: No Longer Orphans

September 2: Be Yourself

September 3: Juicy Morsel

September 4: Key to Understanding

September 5: To Be Truly Known

September 6: Being Authoritative

September 7: Seasoned Truth

September 8: Considering Others

September 9: Making It Work

September 10: Best Caretaker

September 11: Standing Together

September 12: Comprehensive Salvation

September 13: Responsible for Much

September 14: Live Freely

September 15: Valued Administrator

September 16: Grace Returned

September 17: Fully Committed

September 18: Direct Praise

September 19: The Cattle Prod

September 20: Peaceful State

September 21: Growing in Enthusiasm

September 22: Courageous Response

September 23: Demonstrated Ability

September 24: Clear Instructions

September 25: Positive Sentiments

September 26: Strongest Braid

September 27: Already Confirmed

September 28: Where Credit Is Due

September 29: Comforted to Comfort

September 30: Discipline of Fasting

October

October 1: Stable in Choas

October 2: Strength in Pain

October 3: Drawing Excellence

October 4: Tug=of=War

October 5: Spontaneous in Context

October 6: Adaptation Challenge

October 7: Abiding in Him

October 8: Most Talented

October 9: Moved by Song

October 10: For Real

October 11: A Real Sacrifice

October 12: Center of Blessing

October 13: Ask Boldly

October 14: Relevant Message

October 15: Favorite Space

October 16: Grit

October 17: Every Detail

October 18: Day of Restoration

October 19: A Clear Institution

October 20: Open Door

October 21: Guide Ropes

October 22: Our Heritage

October 23: Strength of Mind

October 24: Only One

October 25: Not Afraid

October 26: Extraordinary Willpower

October 27: Valiant Warrior

October 28: Quiet Charity

October 29: Key to Happiness

October 30: Learned Behavior

October 31: Hung Up

November

November 1: No Compromises

November 2: Excited in Peace

November 3: Awe-inspiring

November 4: Strongly Persuasive

November 5: Pleasant Memories

November 6: Enjoying Work

November 7: Part of the Whole

November 8: Supportive

November 9: Practiced Experts

November 10: Our Legacy

November 11: Common Themes

November 12: Holistic Beings

November 13: Spiritual Stamina

November 14: Unique Purpose

November 15: Deep Joy

November 16: Be Still and Wait

November 17: Time to Ponder

November 18: A Dollar a Day

November 19: Gratitude in Sight

November 20: Conducted with Honor

November 21: Holy Spirit Wisdom

November 22: A Good Name

November 23: From Dark to Light

November 24: Too Easy

November 25: Shut It Down

November 26: Keeping Watch

November 27: A Witness

November 28: Emptying Yourself

November 29: Shame Control

November 30: Ultimately Victorious

December

December 1: Positive Progress

December 2: Heartfelt Effort

December 3: Truly Welcomed

December 4: A Different Place

December 5: Don’t Do

December 6: A Strong Follower

December 7: Pardoned

December 8: Gift of Awareness

December 9: Stay Separate

December 10: Start of Love

December 11: Feeling Connected

December 12: Receiving Gifts

December 13: Spirit of Truth

December 14: Thoughtful Care

December 15: Real Live Saint

December 16: Triumphant

December 17: What You Inherit

December 18: Sovereign Love

December 19: Failure and Restoration

December 20: Least of All

December 21: Make It a Reality

December 22: Most Significant

December 23: Key to Sufficiency

December 24: In Light of Eternity

December 25: Incredible Wonder

December 26: Make Him Proud

December 27: Christian Ambition

December 28: Worthy of Exultation

December 29: Loyal through All

December 30: Fascinating Kingdom

December 31: Consecrate Yourself

JANUARY

“In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

MATTHEW 7:12 NASB

JANUARY 1

A GOOD LEADER

“Select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten.”

EXODUS 18:21 NLT

Of all the characteristics that make a good leader, integrity is second to none. It runs alongside the ability to enjoy who we are and to protect the character that makes us unique. Also, a strong leader fears God, humbly recognizing the importance of seeking continuous help, and of growing in understanding. We must also keep ourselves unstained by the ambivalence of indecision, marginal behavior, and self-indulgence which marks the impulsive and the weak.

As you begin this year, continue to posture yourself at the feet of Christ. The Holy Spirit gives wisdom, and in waiting on him you will form the insight that is gained through practiced listening and perpetual learning. This will help you lead others and provide inspiration that only he can give. Know that you have been selected by God and be encouraged that you have started this year seeking first his kingdom. Remember the words of Christ then, that in seeking his kingdom first, other things will be added in due time.

Who has appointed you to lead, and who should lead you?

JANUARY 2

BEING PURPOSEFUL

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.

EPHESIANS 1:11-12 NIV

Jesus resolved to save us and completed his task when he suffered, was killed, buried, and then resurrected. He did not relent in pursuing his goal. As a child, he sought his Father in the temple. As an adult, he purposefully suffered to the point of death. Now, as the resurrected Savior, he continues in prayer for us. When he does return as the warrior King, he will complete his goal by restoring creation to the Godhead.

When you see a person committed to his goal like Jesus was (and still is), it is worthy of admiration. As you think about this year and what you choose to purposefully do as Jesus did, be fervent in what you set your heart toward. As you do, you will naturally lead others, and may it be according to the plan of him who works to conform you to Christ for his praise and glory.

How can you encourage others to pursue Christ?

JANUARY 3

PUT TOGETHER

An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, skillful in teaching, not overindulging in wine, not a bully, but gentle, not contentious, free from the love of money.

1 TIMOTHY 3:2-3 NASB

Wow, what a person these verses describe—so collected and put together! No one can say a bad word about them. This leader is controlled, wise, and honored by others. They open their wallets willingly, forgive those who do harm, and seek to help others live in peace. They have no vices but are filled with the Spirit of Christ.

If our friends were to be like this person, what would that do for us? We would feel secure in our friendships with them, for sure. We would be inspired and enjoy being with them. Our key purpose as leaders is to not focus on being free from the love of money or wine, but rather to employ these attributes and to encourage those we lead to be more like this. Our takeaway is to increasingly pursue the Holy Spirit in our lives and to demonstrate this in our leadership of others.

Can you perfect yourself ?

JANUARY 4

LIFEGIVING TRUST

“Just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to those he wants to.”

JOHN 5:21 NCV

When people follow, they do so for a reason. Some seek guidance or purpose, but many just want to have someone tell them what to do so they can work and pay their bills. It may be surprising, but a large number of people do not want to lead. It is a challenge and a burden which many do not want to bear. That alone tells you that you are called to leadership for a reason. You have a vision, a purpose, and the sort of gifts that are intended to be shared with those around you.

When you think about those who follow you, what do you provide? What can you realistically do for them outside your natural gifts? Remember this: the Father has chosen you, and just as he equipped his Son, he will enable you to give beyond what you yourself are capable of. Trust him and reside daily in the knowledge that he cares more about those you lead than you do. Allow him to give you energy and life to share with others because Jesus is a trustworthy leader of leaders.

When you look at those who follow your leadership, what do they need from you?

JANUARY 5

BUILDING TOGETHER

Do not neglect your gift… Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress.

1 TIMOTHY 4:14-15 NIV

At one point in time, mankind gathered together to build a tower to heaven. So God intervened. Though we don’t know the full scope of what was occurring at that time, it makes us wonder: what limits are there in humanity when we are inspired, unified, committed, hardworking, and industrious?

When we pause to think about those we lead and how we can inspire them, we must allow ourselves time to imagine what we can all accomplish together. As leaders, we need to encourage development and help others realize their potential individually as well as in a group. It is why we lead—to motivate personal growth and group productivity! Think about this: you can inspire others to come together and use their gifts to do things they could not realize on their own. It is your diligent thoughtfulness and planning that will lead others to progress.

How can you inspire unity and purpose in your teams?

JANUARY 6

ONE CRITERION

“The Father gives me the people who are mine. Every one of them will come to me, and I will always accept them.”

JOHN 6:37 NCV

Jesus’ acceptance of each one of his people is based on one criterion: faith. In our world, acceptance has become more like tolerance. We now agree to put up with beliefs and behaviors with which we don’t agree. But Jesus makes it clear that he will accept anyone who comes to him. Herein lies the difference between our tolerant world and our acceptance of Christ: no one comes to Jesus without a battle. There is a cost to be received by him. When we truly allow for self-introspection, we recognize our brokenness and shame. We come to understand our true state especially as it is reflected in a holy God. His acceptance of us is unequivocal and final because to come to him means we know what we truly are like and what we honestly need.

You know your issues, and God knows them too. But you also rejoice in this, because though your sins are like scarlet, he washes you daily until you are as white as snow.

Can you take time before this busy day to rejoice in God’s forgiveness and to be ready to share that forgiveness with those you lead?

JANUARY 7

RICHES OF GOODNESS

Do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?

ROMANS 2:4 NKJV

The riches of God’s goodness are found in the offering of Jesus who bore our sins. Because of this sacrifice, God is patient with us. He suffers willingly to wait for the end of all things. He is not pleased about our continual tendency toward sin, but in his kindness, he allows for our repentance. None of us are without sin. We fail every day in the standard he has set for us. When we recognize his mercy, we can turn to him and find grace and forgiveness. His goodness leads us to repentance.

In a similar manner, you may care for and tolerate the failures in those you lead. This allows for growth and maturity. Hopefully in this place of grace, people will find the ability to rise to a new level of personal understanding and vocational strength.

In your walk as a leader and an influencer, how can you be mindful of the goodness and patience which God has for you and therefore allow that to help you make your decisions when dealing with others?

JANUARY 8

GOOD CHARACTER

This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus.

REVELATION 14:12 NIV

To become a person of good character is a noble quest. It takes sacrifice, determination, and practice. It is composed of many traits such as trustworthiness, compassion, responsibility, and respect. Good character is formed over time; it is not purchased or coerced into our personhood. It is fashioned through difficulty, much like diamonds are created through pressure and pearls grow because of an irritant. A good character develops as we allow trouble and tribulation to work patiently on our broken, immature selves.

We do not have to look far to find trials in life. We are bombarded with ethical issues, relational disruptions, and personal temptations. We are allowing good character to form by submitting to Christ in the ways we face our troubles. However, proper examples within our society are lacking. We are now the most indebted, medicated, addicted, and overweight population in known history. This is not a society learning good character. Rather, we are running deeper into godlessness and immaturity. Our good characters stand as a foil to our culture because of Jesus.

What opportunities do you have in leadership to demonstrate a true fortitude for the good character which Christ has established in you?

JANUARY 9

TENSION RELIEF

One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.

PSALM 27:4 NIV

One of the difficulties of being in leadership is the constant pressure to rely on your resources. Whether you need to call in people or make use of something you own, your mind is probably consumed with whatever you have available at this time. But your challenges and your resources have already been brought to this moment by God. David, in his brokenness, cried out to his heavenly Father for help to abide with him. He knew the value of being in God’s presence so he would have everything available to him that he would need to get through the trials he was facing in that moment.

Our comfort with today’s verse is in recognizing that our brokenness is foreshadowed in the person of David. It seems that God allows us these difficulties, so we continue to fight our own natures yet always long for him. Our joys and accomplishments in this lifetime are unparalleled by the beauty and perfection that is reserved for us in eternity.

How can you fight the good fight as David did?

JANUARY 10

MORAL EXCELLENCE

“He who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in his mouth.”

1 PETER 2:22 NASB

A virtue is a quality that has good merit and morality; a characteristic that exudes moral excellence. The virtue of truthfulness, for example, is that it demonstrates integrity, honesty, and forthrightness. Our lives can be full of trickery and deceit. Mostly we do it to ourselves, fooling our conscience into small decisions of depravity and allowing false narratives to entertain and sidetrack our minds. We ask ourselves how else we are to get by in a world that demands so much and gives so little in return. We are supposed to excel, compete well, be strong, look attractive, and be great. Yet we are typically not very great, so we make things up, bend the truth, or tell little lies.

Despite Jesus having these same struggles in his humanity while he walked on earth, because he’s also God he was full of virtue. His character was unstained by any need to perform. He was content with his position in life and grounded by his relationship with his Father. This is what enabled him to be righteous and incorruptible. You can also make the Father your foundation and walk with the goal of showing others the same integrity that Jesus had as a human.

How do you lay everything at Christ’s feet and allow him to guide your decisions through his Spirit?

JANUARY 11

SPORTS CAPTAIN

“Thomas, now that you’ve seen me, you believe. But there are those who have never seen me with their eyes but have believed in me with their hearts, and they will be blessed even more!”

JOHN 20:29 TPT

Being given the title of captain of a sports team is an honor. Sometimes coaches pick the least expected player for such roles, and when they do, teammates wonder about the thinking behind such a decision. What is it about that player that made them good enough to be a captain?

Empowering someone is not always about recognizing leadership ability that is already evident. Rather, it is about identifying attributes that could potentially make a great leader. After all, leaders are made, not born. A good coach can see what a team needs and equip specific people on the team who are capable of becoming that leader. Often teams have more than one captain. Some people lead well because of their attributes, and some are empowered to lead because a coach sees future abilities and wants to encourage them. Jesus has appointed you to lead.

You may recognize some of the gifts God has given you. Do you think he has more for you to find and develop in this position of leadership?

JANUARY 12

CHOOSE TODAY

“If you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”

JOSHUA 24:15 NLT

There is something inspirational about a decisive person; they proactively and confidently make decisions and take responsibility for their domain. The impetuous are foolish and make rash decisions while reacting, but those who are decisive with wisdom are admired. This is not a matter of semantics, but rather about the ability to weigh a situation and employ experience and wisdom. The impulsive person does not think before they act. The decisive one considers their way and takes action. This is what makes a leader stand out.

However, our decisiveness can be paralyzed by fear of failure. We can allow our minds to start comparing and worrying about the consequences. We can start to dread the ridicule with results with a wrong decision, especially as leaders. These fears and doubts are relieved when we surrender our decisions to Christ and recognize that our hope lays in him and his final word over us. Ultimately, when we serve the Lord, our choices are committed to him. We serve him and him first, and by submitting our hearts to him we can trust the Holy Spirit to help us in our decisiveness.

Can you trust his Spirit to lead you in your current position?

JANUARY 13

HOPE SUPPLY

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”

JOHN 11:25-26 NIV

There is something incredible about hope and placing our beliefs in something that gives us strength in the moment. We see people around us demoralized, confused, and uncertain, and yet we have the answers so many people are looking for. We have the certainty that we will be resurrected one day and that our lives are in the hands of a completely faithful leader. His promises are certain, and his Word has never failed.

Your leadership position can also give others hope and that can feel overwhelming at times. It is a weight that not all people can bear. But you can because you rely on the greatest leader. Jesus is the one who will strengthen you and as you lean into him you can remind yourself of the promises of his Word. The courage you receive from his truth enables you to equip others with that beautiful hope.

How does your understanding of his promises help you share his hope with others?

JANUARY 14

WELL PLEASED

When Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

MATTHEW 3:16-17 ESV

When you consider the life of Jesus, you start to realize that he did not spend energy working to please anyone. He even suffered bad opinions about himself willingly and with admirable strength. We typically don’t suffer well unless it gains us something; one of those “somethings” is the approval of others. We work long hours and boast about our achievements as we seek the adulation of others.

Oh, how hard we work to gain approval! Everyone does it. We may attempt to be approved by some in authority, peers, family members, friends, or social groups. There is a lot of approval to be earned out there, so we must work hard to get it. Our desire for approval is not all bad; it is in us to drive us toward Christ. Ultimately, and what will satisfy us completely and properly, is to know his approval of us. And he does approve of us as we seek to do his will. He loves the fact that you are seeking him now and enjoys the time you spend in his presence.

What makes you valuable to God?

JANUARY 15

A SATISFIED LIFE

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

PHILIPPIANS 4:12 NIV

Leadership carries the weight of needing to ensure that those you serve are content. It is troubling at times to have followers who are upset, especially if it happens frequently. We all know this ends in attrition. But teaching contentment is not all on us as leaders because we can only influence those we lead. We do not ultimately own the responsibility for the attitudes of others.

Our best efforts for the positive influence of others comes in how we exemplify a satisfied life in Christ. Contentment forms when we recognize that God is our everything and our spirit is awakened to that need. We know who the provider of all that we truly need is! We look to him alone as our source. But understanding that premise and knowing it at a heart level are two different things! Discipline yourself to depend on God. If you struggle with dependence on God, try fasting as that can provoke our spirits toward God and learned contentment. Be encouraged to take time to learn the secret of a hidden life in Christ, the abstained satisfied soul.

Does your team look at you and see that you are content?

JANUARY 16

PRIVATE GENEROSITY

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.

PROVERBS 19:17 ESV

When you are in leadership, you have to make decisions that, at times, no one else takes part in and no one else may notice. These are not bad decisions; they are just what need to be done. You may make good decisions that no one gives you credit for or even notices.

Take comfort in the fact that God notices both your thoughts and your actions. He sees those moments when you give beyond your own capabilities or make choices that can impact the bottom line for the betterment of others. God’s greatest concern is not money but in how you use money to affect the lives of others. He loves integrity in his people and observing the decisions you make as you seek him first in all things. Continue to allow his Spirit to lead you and listen for those quiet directions which he wants to give you. Know that in time, he will reward you greatly for your private and purposeful obedience.

To whom specifically does God want you to be generous?

JANUARY 17

STRENGTH TO CHANGE

He gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

JAMES 4:6 ESV

A hard heart can form quickly through repeated emotional trauma. This trauma can come from many sources, but it’s often most painfully experienced at the hands of the members of our families. We learn so much early on in our lives and it can be hard to soften our hearts so that we can hear God as we get older if we remain in a place of pain.

God is gracious, and his patience allows us to change slowly over time if we learn humility and grace. He will lift up those who are bowed down. He is kind. He loves unconditionally because he is love. His grace empowers us in our weaknesses, for that is what grace does: it allows weakness to exist so we can be strengthened by it. Grace gives us the strength we need to change. Let us become leaders who demonstrate, from the inside out, the goodness of God’s graciousness.

When you are upset how do you remain gracious to others?

JANUARY 18

SWEET RESPITE

You are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life.

ROMANS 6:22 NLT

Have you pondered what life would be like without sin? Sin is not just a state of being it is also a causal effect. We live in a sinful world and sin dwells within man which results in sinful man making sinful choices. It is not escapable in this lifetime. Jesus came and defeated sin and its power over us. Its power was death which is produced in us from inception. As followers of Jesus, we are no longer slaves to sin and therefore we can and do choose righteousness. It is a beautiful thing!

However, every day we still battle against sin. Imagine no longer fighting the propensity to sin. What a great relief that will be! It is unfathomable. We have an eternity with God and without sin. Every choice we will make will be the right one, not in defiance to God but in alignment with him. What sweet respite that will be. Add to this the beauty of being a new creation with healed and whole bodies, enjoying our relationships forevermore. We can truly get excited at our prospects for eternal life!

What excites you most about being freed from the power of sin?

JANUARY 19

SOURCE OF ALL

O God in Zion, to you even silence is praise! You who answers prayer, all of humanity comes before you with their requests.

PSALM 65:1-2 TPT

You can imagine the trouble your life would become if all the world approached you with their problems. It is trouble enough leading a small organization or even a family! When we become overwhelmed with issues in leadership, we can quickly dismiss what we deem as smaller matters, but then we are also dismissing the people who bring those matters to light. It is important for us to be approachable to all people if we want to keep a pulse on what is happening in our organizations. The larger the group we lead, the greater the help we need.

Even so, notice in this verse that God needs no help. He can handle all the requests and all the problems. He is the source of life for all of mankind. He is also your source. You can go to him with confidence. As a chosen leader, you are an instrument to others as a source of God’s strength.

How can you trust that God will equip you to remain approachable? Can you rely on him to give you the necessary wisdom to deal with whatever comes your way?

JANUARY 20

THE CORE FEATURE

Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

HEBREWS 11:1 ESV

When God establishes a leader, he looks for people who will follow him with dynamic and passionate fervor. Some are fearful at first, and they lack faith and boldness. It seems that all make mistakes, but each one ends up being brave servants of God.

Mankind may look at the people God chose in the Bible and comment that they were extreme in some way or another. They spoke of or accomplished things that are sometimes impossible to believe. But that is the nature of leadership. It requires men and women who are bold in the face of adversity, and courageous enough to pursue their dreams. People who lead like this are driven by a core feature—hope. They overcome mistakes because they have the drive to accomplish what they set out to do. As a leader, you have this hope and conviction. You aspire to inspire, and you have within you the belief to accomplish what you hope for.

Can you allow God to take what you have, and use it to pass hope on to those you lead?

JANUARY 21

PERFECT BLEND

We who are strong must be considerate of those who are sensitive about things like this. We must not just please ourselves. We should help others do what is right and build them up in the Lord. For even Christ didn’t live to please himself.

ROMANS 15:1-3 NLT

People who are seen as successful in leadership may be the very people who stand out in crowds, who are charismatic, strong, forceful, loud, or even self-promoting. Yet, a thoughtful leader is one who is considerate of others, kind in words and actions, and selfless. There is a plethora of these traits reflected in Christ although he was never self-promoting. Jesus only promoted the Father.

When it suited God’s purposes, Jesus was a crowd-pleaser. He performed miracles, lambasted the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, and defended the poor, sick, and elderly. But there was a caring, unselfish, quiet side to him. He comforted his disciples, taught children, and cared for the ill. He was truly the perfect man and the righteous Son of God.

Though you may not be like Jesus yet, can you aim to do the things he did in the way he did them, using the Spirit as your guide?

JANUARY 22

CONNECTION MATTERS

Physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

1 TIMOTHY 4:8 NIV

We should be healthy, exercising our bodies and eating well. All of us want to remain vigorous as long as we live on the earth. Our bodies are also the temple of the Holy Spirit so we should treat them with respect and appreciation. When it comes to exercise and healthy eating, we want to do right by ourselves, but we will also fight genetics and the fallen state of earthly life.

Therefore, balance is necessary and less comparison amongst us is critical. Our efforts for good health are to be focused on godliness first and understanding that which will last into eternity. It does not mean we disregard ourselves, but we need to keep our focus on what matters most: our connection and obedience to God. It is important to note that God cares about the whole person, and we should as well when we lead others. Sometimes we are so focused on accomplishments that we forget to understand that we all need that connection in our relationships to God, ourselves, and others.

If you make time for those you lead in godliness ahead of or in conjunction with your own physical training, how can you encourage them to connect to the same priority?

JANUARY 23

SHIFT WORK

LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.

PSALM 143:1 NIV

Many things exasperate us as leaders, and maybe nothing frustrates us more than attending to disrupted relationships. Especially troubling is when broken friendships, work relationships, or even marriages cause delays in our accomplishments and productivity. We may also face situations when exhausted people are a danger to themselves and others. Perhaps we are lacking the resources to hire more staff or enlist more help. Ugh; more delays are inevitable. These things grate at us and weary us. In the workplace, shift work was developed to help tired workers because long hours were recognized as unsafe and unprofitable. The reprieve of shifts allows workers to come back refreshed and more effective.

Do leaders have the ability to take shifts off? Yes, in much the same way the Lord provides a place of relief for his leaders to be refreshed and renewed. It requires discipline to leave our responsibilities behind us for a period of rest. God, however, has specific grace for you to do that. He not only promises to bring you respite, but he is faithful and right in his responses to your burdens.

How can you find relief as you cry out to God?

JANUARY 24

DIGGING FOR GOLD

All the ways of a person are clean in his own sight, But the LORD examines the motives.

PROVERBS 16:2 NASB

Determining what motivates us can be like digging for gold. If you have ever watched gold miners at work, it takes some hard labor and experience. It’s usually a sacrifice, but it ends up with great rewards. If you know what motivates you, going after it will give you passion and joy—and potentially a good reason to live.

One of the top motivators for leaders is to have a sense of accomplishment—to build something great. If a goal is set and completed, there is a release of endorphins which brings pleasure. When accomplishments add up to a large success it brings great satisfaction. God put this desire in us, and he very much wants us to be motivated first to seek him. As we read his Word and dwell in the presence of his Spirit, we find our enthusiasm aligning with his. Our joy is completed in his joy, and we find a satisfaction that is pure contentment. When we chase after him, God aligns our purpose with roles and tasks that we fulfill and then we find a great reason to live!

What gets you up and going in the morning?

JANUARY 25

KEENLY AWARE

What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?

PSALM 8:4 NIV

Have you ever watched someone holding a coffee or some other beverage and they start to get so engrossed in their conversation that they forget that they are holding something that can spill? Suddenly there is a stark reminder as they drop or misplace their drink, and usually people or equipment are affected. But if you remind them before they drop anything, they are very thankful.

Imagine if you could be on top of every possible accident wherever you are. People would be amazed. That is what God is like. He is aware of absolutely everything. This amazes us if we allow ourselves to dwell on this great feature of his. God is so mindful of us that he is conscious of our every moment and every movement. Imagine keeping track of that many incidences on planet earth. Even so, he doesn’t control us like robots. He engages with us at our invitation. He has the awareness and the power; he just wants our invitation first. Invite him into your day and let him lead you as you lead others.

How does God get your attention? Journal those moments so you can think about them later.

JANUARY 26

THE COURAGE HORMONE

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

HEBREWS 13:16 ESV

Leaders take risks. They dive in when no one else will, and they inspire from the frontlines. There is a natural release of dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin—the four feel-good hormones—when you do this. When we hear a baby cry or someone scream, if there is a siren going off, or if we hear the yelp of an animal, we are alerted to trouble and our adrenaline—the courage hormone—kicks in. It grasps our attention. If it is clear we are the only help available, we jump into action.

People who save others say they are not heroes and that they just did what anyone else would do. This statement is not far from the truth. We were all made to be helpful and caring. The only difference may be in one’s ability to overcome fear, and that is what leaders do. In our day-to-day lives, however, we need people to show up, be courteous, cooperate, and care. You can create that culture today.

Can you look for those people who may need help? Can you engage those you lead with encouraging words specific to them?

JANUARY 27

UNIVERSAL COLLABORATION

Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

ROMANS 12:4-5 NIV

In a world of independence, ethnic turmoil, and global market crashes, we have also witnessed universal collaboration. During the recent pandemic, we saw the world stop and focus on one global issue. Humans cooperated on a level we have not seen before: globally, we isolated, masked, and exhibited behavior which demonstrated general concern for one another. There were lots of questions and varying opinions, but the reality is that the pandemic saw many problems set aside and entire populations focus on the most urgent issue. Out of that shift, a sense of global community and care has arisen. Perhaps healing can begin?

Cooperation is emphasized in our faith as something God desires for all of us. It can occur amongst the people you lead. They will need clear direction and purpose in order to see how they contribute to a greater mission. In Christ, you have been equipped to lead and to give vision to others.

What helps you look to God for his wisdom and to trust in his leadership?

JANUARY 28

EQUAL MATURITY

Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

EPHESIANS 4:15-16 NIV

There is a leadership lesson in this great picture that Paul gives here in today’s verse. It is helpful in explaining that it is the whole body of Christ that matures and not just its parts. In some ways, each part needs to mature equally for each to contribute fully. A ligament must be mature enough to handle a strong muscle otherwise it will snap. Similarly, bones need to be strong enough to support the weight of the flesh. There is a lot of work to make a group of people unified!