“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will.”—Romans 12:1-2
One of the things I struggled with when I first got into coaching was how to lead properly. Having been in a handful of leadership roles throughout my life, I felt confident in my ability to lead. Working with young kids, not cadets at a military college or peers in a professional setting, was a completely different situation.
The task was a little scary, I must admit. How much, if any, emphasis needed to be put on winning? What about playing time? How would I deal with irate parents? What about hurt feelings? There was a distinct difference in how I needed to go about leading children, as opposed to leading coworkers or subordinates.
Over time I found that many of the same principles of leadership held true, regardless of the difference in situation or age: Lead by example. Set the tone along with attainable goals. Know and take care of the needs of your people. Promote a sense of togetherness and unity behind a common cause. See it through to completion. Be committed and promote that same commitment in those around you.
These are just a few of the leadership principles taught in military units, boardrooms, training seminars, locker rooms and institutes of higher learning across the world today.
Quite similarly, God’s Word does not change either, regardless of our surroundings and environments, or the new challenges in which we find ourselves. He has called each of us to specific roles, in accordance to the gifts and talents which with He has richly blessed.
God doesn’t want us to shy away from those new situations that life may send our way. He doesn’t expect us to drift from the example He has set for us to follow.
Are you being receptive to what God has called you to be?
— Corey Thompson
OneCoach, part of the Sports Spectrum Network, is an international community of coaches and spouses who have been uniquely gifted and called by God. Visit OneCoach.org for more stories and videos.
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