Unlikely Leaders: Discovering Hidden Potential
When we think of successful leaders, we often imagine charismatic figures with impressive resumes. But what about those who defy expectations? The ones who, on the surface, seem unlikely to succeed? The Bible reminds us that God’s standards are different from ours. In 1 Samuel 16:7, God tells Samuel, “Looks aren’t everything… God judges persons differently than humans do. Men and women look at the face; God looks into the heart.”
The Unassuming Leader
Take David, for example. As the youngest son in a family of boys, he was tasked with shepherding sheep – hardly a preparation for leadership. Yet, God saw something in him that no one else did – a heart that was tender and obedient. And so, David became a king.
Potential in Unexpected Places
Have you ever considered that the people you’re discipling or leading to Christ might have hidden leadership potential? It’s easy to overlook them, just as David’s brothers did. But God sees beyond outward appearances and chooses those whose hearts are receptive to Him.
Seeing Beyond the Surface
What if we could learn to see people the way God does? To recognize the potential in those who may seem least likely to succeed? It starts with prayer. Ask God to show you the hidden strengths in others, and pray for them to become the people He intends them to be.
A Heart-Centered Approach
As we strive to become more like God, let’s focus on developing a heart-centered approach to leadership. One that looks beyond superficial qualities and instead, seeks to understand the depths of another person’s heart. By doing so, we may uncover leaders who will surprise us with their greatness.
Prayer for Discernment
Father, we thank You for not judging us by our outward appearance. Help us to see others as You do – with hearts that are tender and obedient to You. Enable us to become more like You, and grant us the discernment to recognize the hidden potential in those around us. Amen.
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