Today (December 29) I turn 75. 

It seems like a milestone of sorts. I thought I would share some important things I have learned over the years and, with his grace, seek to apply to my life–things that will enable me to leave a lasting legacy and be a God-pleasing leader as I approach the finish line (2 Timothy 4:7,8).

SO HERE THEY ARE IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER:

1.  It’s all about relationships, not just getting things done.

2.  It’s all about the people, not me the leader. I am here for them. They are not here for me. The Son of Man came to serve, not to be served.

3.  People are positive to being led but not positive to being micro-managed. Many leaders over-manage and under-lead.

4.  It’s a marathon, not a 100 meter sprint. Pacing is pivotal.

5.  It all starts with leading myself before attempting to lead others.

6.  If I’m to finish well, my time, energy, finances and gifts need to be stewarded well. “Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the master, cheerfully expectant.” (Romans 12:11, The Message)

7.  I desperately need a few good friends willing to be both Jonathans and Nathans for me who provide real and honest accountability

8.  I want to daily keep my nose in “The Book” and my knees on the floor– scripture and prayer.

9.  Continuing to be a life-long learner. Willing to learn from anyone, at any time, on any subject.

10.  Being myself and not trying to be somebody else. “…let’s just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something we aren’t.” (Romans 12:6, The Message)

11.  Being content with who I am, where I am, what I’m doing and what God’s doing.

12.  Keep short accounts with God and others…confessing and repenting quickly and not making excuses or blaming others for my sin.

13.  Be willing to take healthy risks for God…dream big and attempt big things.

14.  Stay humble and dependent…too many arrogant leaders out there.

15.  Keep a healthy balance between my work life, my family life and my personal life…too many out of balance leaders out there.

16.  Don’t be fearful of what others may be thinking about me. They’re not thinking about me at all as they’re too busy thinking about themselves.  “The fear of human opinion disables; trusting in God protects you from that.”(Proverb 29:25, The Message)

17.  Live for an audience of one:  Jesus!

18.  There seems to be to too much emphasis placed on competency and not enough on character. More leaders fall over character issues than competency issues

I trust these are helpful as you enter a new year of life and ministry for Jesus fame!