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lead your family by honoring them


Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever.

Several years ago I read an article titled ā€œHow to Honor Your Leadersā€.  It is written by Brad Lomenick who leads an organization called Catalyst.  Brad discusses things that we can tangibly do to help those around us be stronger.  Some apply this to their boss, others to their pastor, some to other leaders they are connected to.

The fact is all of us are leaders.  Someone is following us, watching us and even challenged by us.  It is important that we make positive choices to lead well.  I am spending some time this week seeing how I lead my family, in particular my wife and children. 

The article was written to church staff and business people, but I would like to spend a few minutes applying the principles Brad shared to how we can as parents or even as children to help our families be much stronger.  I pray these things we will challenge you as they did me.  Ways to honor those around usā€¦

Pray ā€“ Pray for wisdom, for clarity, for compassion and for a clear in life.

Encourage ā€“ Lift them up in public and critique in private. Tell your family member how you appreciate them.  Do this consistently.  Write them a note.  Make sure to pour in to them often.

Confront ā€“ I dislike confrontation, if you see something not right, tell them. Most people crave feedback, so give it to them with kindness.  Confrontation works best though when encouragement, love, service and trust have been given freely for a long time.

Serve ā€“ Go far beyond just enough.  Be willing to carry the load.  Get things done. Deliver more than you were asked to do.

Trust ā€“ Put stock in the fact that they have your best interests in mind. Fight against sarcasm and cynicism.  Show and give trust, and you will get trust in return.

Understand ā€“ Find out what drives them, motivates them, and what frustrates them. Lean into the things that motivate and avoid the things that frustrate.

Protect ā€“ It is vital to always have their back.  Stand up for your family. Speak up.

Release ā€“ Work hard at giving your spouse and children permission to lead you.  Live out of humility, respect, and openness.  Open hearts and open minds bring strength to our homes.  Closed thoughts, arms crossed, and a made up minds keep us from having stronger and better lives.

May God show us ways that we can strengthen our families and lead and be led well!

When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.

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