Good leaders listen. This applies to husbands, fathers, coaches, managers, teachers, politicians, pastors, etc. Since I’m on that list several times, I need to make a confession: one of the biggest mistakes I’ve made in ministry and marriage is not listening well.
As someone who likes to be right, I find it hard (really hard) to listen to the opinions, recommendations, critiques and advice of others. If I am a leader, I am supposed to have the answers, the wisdom and the vision to see the right path, right? Have you ever tried following someone who was never wrong? Tried living with him/her? Okay, now we get it!
The good leader recognizes that wisdom is not found in one person, but in the collective perspective of many. Yes, as a leader, I must make the decision and take responsibility for the outcome. But I am to lead by listening—to others in my family and on my staff team, and most importantly to the one who is Omni-wise.
As Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
Good leaders listen. This applies to husbands, fathers, coaches, managers, teachers, politicians, pastors, etc. Since I’m on that list several times, I need to make a confession: one of the biggest mistakes I’ve made in ministry and marriage is not listening well.