“Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave” (Proverbs 12:24 NLT).

A PRACTICAL LEADERSHIP PROVERB

The Spirit inspired Solomon to write many practical proverbs. This is one on how to become a leader. For many aspire to leadership, yet few know how to qualify. Many think this is due to politics or birthright. But the few who work hard and find themselves elevated know better. Leadership comes to those who first serve well. Great leaders begin as great followers. Obey those in authority over you. Make their job easier. Make your boss look good. Do your job well and without complaint and those in authority over you will take notice.
 
Many want to steer the boat, but few volunteer to row. Yet, it is the callouses from rowing that prepare the leader to steer.
 
Leadership looks like the easy job, but in fact, it is the most demanding. For to do it well, one must become the servant of all. As Jesus taught, “Whoever wants to be a leader among you must first become your servant” (Matt. 20:26).
 
It seems paradoxical, but serving well leads to leadership, while laziness leads to slavery.
 
PRAYER: Dear Father, we are thankful for the servant-leadership of Jesus. He is both our Lord and Savior. And we want to follow Him and be like Him. Strengthen us to serve, while we trust You to give us whatever level of leadership You desire us to have. In Jesus’ name, amen.