Called to Follow

Mar 31

Written by Jonathan Harms

Matthew 16:24

Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me” (NLT).

Leadership is one of the most treasured qualities that businesses value in their employees. An effective leader will positively impact a company by ensuring their counterparts feel valued and their efforts are noticed. These qualities may come naturally for some, but everyone must learn to lead effectively over time. Many people will attend leadership seminars, read books from experts, or even attain a degree in leadership from a university. However, the most influential leaders were once great followers.

We can follow and learn from many admirable leaders throughout history. President Ronald Reagan said, "The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” An effective leader must lead by example and listen to their team. John C. Maxwell said, "The best leaders are those most interested in surrounding themselves with assistants and associates smarter than they are." Leaders are constantly learning and teaching what they have learned. Often, the most influential leader is an attentive follower.

Leaders must earn the respect of their followers to lead effectively. Respect is essential when leading a team. Many may consider a football quarterback as the leader of the team. The quarterback is the captain of the offense and often the glue of the entire team. The quarterback must be able to support the team through their strengths and weaknesses to earn respect. However, the coach is the team's leader, and the quarterback must be teachable and follow the coach's direction to effectively lead the team to success. Without respect from the team and willingness to follow the coach's directions, the team would fall apart.

The Bible has many lessons and examples of effective leadership. In the Old Testament, Moses led the children of Israel for 40 years through the wilderness to their promised land, not by his strength, but by God's lead - John 6:32 says, "Jesus said, ‘I tell you the truth, Moses didn't give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven” (NLT). Jesus, the supreme teacher, counselor, and leader, followed the ministries of others and learned under exceptional leaders. Jesus followed God's will - John 6:38 says, "For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will" (NLT) and, in turn, led His disciples - Matthew 4:19 says, "Then He said to them, ''Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men'" (NKJV).

Like the disciples, we are commanded to follow Jesus and allow Him to guide our path, teach us, and strengthen us when we are weak. Who can think of a better example to imitate? Jesus is the perfect leader because he was Called to Follow, just like you and me. Who are you following?