Leadership lessons from Jacob
Jacob led on softly at the pace his flock and family could endure.
Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according as the cattle that goeth before me and the children be able to endure, until I come unto my lord unto Seir. Genesis 33:14.
Outstanding leaders understand the condition of their flock. That means having a deep, personal knowledge of those under leadership.
Extension can’t be the best leadership or from a distance. Jesus, the most outstanding leader ever, lived out this leadership lesson. He lived among his disciples. They learned life and ministry from His example—lessons applied to real-life situations.
This type of leadership is what I call life-on-life discipleship or mentoring. The genuine connection facilitates growth and transformation, rather than being dictated.
Too many well-intentioned leaders fail because they prioritize outcomes over their people. They inadvertently use people for their ministry rather than their ministry for the people.
What happens to the individual in this process? What happens to their family?
We want results, so we impose rigid expectations on our people. Our flock's tender nature goes unrecognized by us. We push them beyond their capacity and cause more harm than good.
True discipleship isn’t imposing or forcing but walking alongside, meeting them where they are, and guiding them with patience and compassion.
This one-on-one relationship will foster growth. We love people and consider none to be throwaways. Too often in our society, people have “no deposit, no return” in their minds.
The priority is Jesus and the well-being of our flock. Nurturing and equipping individuals for the journey is something we invest time and energy in. We walk alongside. Our support is always available to them. We do not cut and run.
Make a difference in the lives of those God has given you to serve.