I was having a conversation the other day with an up and coming leader. He was dealing with a very hurtful relationship that ended and he didn’t understand why it was so painful for so long.
We discovered his issue wasn’t just the pain of the relationship it was the pain of feeling rejected. Rejection is very powerful force, and it can be very destructive in the life of a leader. If we fear rejection, we will want to please all those around us, but . . .
Leaders Can’t Be Pleasers Because:
1. Pleasers never lead, they congregate.
Pleasers will never be leaders because they are more concerned about being “OK” with everyone, instead of being right with God. They love to congregate and hang out with those they feel accepted with. But the truth is, sometimes being a real leader means you may need to stand alone for a while.
2. Pleasers never lead, they participate.
Pleasers love to run with the pack, and hang out with everyone like himself. Leaders must blaze new trails, run where others aren’t running. That means breaking away from the pack and embracing new ideas, and walking in the unique calling God as designed you for.
Prayerfully and truthfully ask yourself if you are operating as a pleaser or a real leader. Don’t walk in the fear of man, it will destroy your potential, and rob you of the real influence God intended you to have.
This article was originally published on ChurchPlanting.com.
