I once read a leadership book where the author shared a story about a team of speakers vying for the most attractive speaking slot at a conference. When the author was offered the slot, he realized another speaker’s topic would be a better fit and selflessly gave it up. This act made the other speakers realize they were prioritizing individual roles over the team’s common goal.
Friend, if you would go far with God and excel in life, always remember that the goal is more important than the role (1 Corinthians 3:5-7). This is the true test of selfless leadership. Anyone who places his preference or role above the common goal is not a selfless leader. Promoting individual roles above the common goal is the reason for in-fightings, betrayals, and all kinds of crises going on in places today (Mark 10:35-41).
While politics has become part of our lives and operations, make up your mind not to be political in your approach to life and leadership (Proverbs 23:1-7). A political leader uses people and platforms to achieve his own goal or vision. A selfless leader uses such to achieve the organisational goal or vision. He spends himself to make others better rather than spending on himself or his personal vision (2 Corinthians 12:15).
Once you assume a leadership position, you must lose your sense of entitlement (Esther 10:3). If not, you would be a leader who wants to take by all means rather than one who wants to give by all means. It is all about perspective. The reason some people are looking for leadership positions is not because they want to serve. It is because they want to be served (Matthew 20:25-28).
When we shift focus from our roles to the goal, we would achieve the impossible (Genesis 11:1-6). This was the secret of the men who were building the tower of Babel. Their unity was built around the common goal, not their individual roles. A lot of visions have died a natural death today because of people who promote their interest above that of the group (Ephesians 4:3-7).
We need to learn how the tiny ants move big stuff. They understand unity and vision (Proverbs 6:6-11). They do things for the common goal. If you are truly seeking the good of others and the glory of God, you would be glad that the job is done even if it does not carry your name or face (Philippians 1:12-18). Until God cures you of the need to be seen or known, you are not yet ready to be God’s man or woman in your generation.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria