There is a sobering leadership principle every leader needs to know. Often we learn it the hard way, so I think it might be helpful if I prepare you for it – in case you don’t know.
The fact is:
Who you are in your private life impacts who you are in your professional life.
The the two parts of your life are inseparable.
How many pastors, leaders, or public officials have seen their whole professional world come crashing down around them, because of something which was hidden in their private life? Chances are you know a few names.
You can try to manage two identities – pretending in public everything is okay in private. And, it might work for a time. It never works long-term.
Who you really are will ultimately be discovered. Your personal junk will impact your public world.
Eventually.
“For there is nothing hidden which will not be disclosed” – Jesus (Mark 4:22)
The only real, sustainable solution to this principle is to protect your public life by continually working to protect and improve your private life.
Here’s a sobering question (for you and me) to accompany a sobering leadership principle.
What in your private life has the potential to derail your public life? And, what are you going to do about it?
Such a great reminder. Thank you!
Thanks
Agreed Ron! It is written clearly in Job 28:11 that "He searches the sources of the rivers and brings hidden things to light." Psalmist acknowledges in Psalm 69:5 that "You know my folly, O God; my guilt is not hidden from you."
Again we receive a warning from Ecclesiastes 12:14 that " For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil."
Great verses.
Spot on Ron. It's something I try to teach young leaders coming up through student leadership in our youth group. Once you become a leader, your life is open to everyone and they'll be looking into it. Make sure you're living above reproach.
Amen
Twitter: kmac4him
says:
Oh such great wisdom! Thank you! My heart responds with this: VERTICAL DEPENDENCE! We need a one on one, heart to heart and spirit to spirit relationship with our AWE-GOD!
Psalm 86:11 Teach me your way, Lord that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided(C) heart, that I may fear your name. (NIV)
Lord Jesus create in us a heart that is completely open to You. OPENHEARTED! Cause our heart to be undivided, all for YOU and called to YOU 1ST!
I like that response.