I’ve discovered that in life, it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Acts 20:35 says, “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
We have no greater example than Christ himself when it comes to giving. Jesus embodied generosity with his words and actions, leading a life of sacrifice, so we could live a life of salvation.
As leaders, we’ve been called to do the same — live lives of generosity so others can live lives of opportunity.
We stand at the forefront and give to those below us, above us, and around us. We invest in the lives of others and impart all that we have learned to the next ones in line. We are part of a generous people, generations building on this same foundation, believing that those after us will lead longer and stronger because of the investment we choose to make today.
When it comes to generous leadership here are three traits I believe are essential:
I. A Compassionate Approach
Compassion leads to action.
II. A Grateful Perspective
It's more impactful to give than to receive.
III. An Abundant Mindset
You don't have to be rich to be generous.
Think of a river compared to a lake; a river is a never-ending flow of life-giving water, whereas a lake is still and stagnant, giving nothing out of itself. As a leader, you never stop learning new things and growing. There is abundant knowledge to give out and pass on. We are all people of influence; If you feel that you have nothing to give, the very fact that you're still here says otherwise.
If we want generous leaders, it starts with us. It starts with the words we speak, the vision we cast, and the correction we bring.
Are your words generous?
Does your vision give or take?
Is your correction kind or controlling?
Take time this week to evaluate one area of leadership where you can grow in generosity.
For more leadership principles from Pastor Rich Wilkerson Jr. check out this weekly leadership email.
