Encouragement is one of the greatest tools in a leader’s toolbox. Read Matthew 17:1-13.

Peter, James and John were three of the twelve disciples who Jesus relied on heavily to complete His mission even after He was no longer living on earth. In today’s verses these men accompanied Jesus to a remote area in the mountains of Judea and to their great surprise Jesus was suddenly transfigured from a man they worked with everyday to a heavenly being, the man of grace, who was joined by Moses, Israel’s first lawgiver, and Elijah, Israel’s greatest prophet. As if this were not enough they heard the very voice of God giving Jesus’ work His approval from heaven. Can you even imagine how encouraged these men were from what Jesus revealed to them concerning the scope of their mission? The impression was so lasting that Peter later writes about it in one of his books, 2 Peter 1:16-18.

Leaders must make it clear what it takes to be part of their team. Read Matthew 8:18-22.

As Jesus’ popularity throughout Israel grew, many people wanted to join His team—become one of His disciples. Jesus made it clear that to become a member of His team, individuals would have to be more devoted to Him than to personal comfort or even family approval. One way He screened those who wanted to be on His team was to test their level of commitment to Him and to the kingdom. Jesus never begged anyone to follow Him and He always issued tough challenges to potential followers. In fact, Jesus at times openly evaluated His followers to insure where they stood.

Wise leaders don’t confuse activity with accomplishment. Read Haggai 1:5-11.

Haggai served as prophet to the Hebrews who had returned from exile after 70 years in Babylon. These returnees were charged by God to rebuild the temple so they had a place to worship and focus on Him as they started their more routine lives. Initially they made a great start on the temple project; however, when they came under some intense pressure to stop the construction from some local tribes who had political clout with those who had released them from captivity, the construction ground to a halt.

Leaders succeed as they find ways to successfully communicate their organization’s vision. Micah 4:1-5.

Micah not only announced judgment on the Jewish people but also brought a message of hope concerning God’s plan for the future. Micah proclaimed a vision of a better day. People could get excited about the message because during the last days the “house of the Lord” would be a strategic, influential, equipping place. The Lord’s temple would be established and Jerusalem would be chief among all the cities. Because God gave Micah His words, he was equally as effective communicating vision for a positive future as he had been proclaiming judgment.

There is only one leader with absolute power and influence. Read Daniel 7:9-14.

Daniel had a dream that was a revelation from God concerning future events. The vision underscores the temporary nature of human power and earthly kingdoms. In verses 13 and 14 when “One like the Son of Man” was given “…authority, glory, and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.” Daniel received a revelation that the One True God has authority over nature and nations. He is able to change time and seasons, He establishes one king and deposes another. He saw that God’s power and influence are absolute.