I’ve
been doing a lot of research recently about leadership and qualities of a good
leader. Furthermore, I have been pondering the concept of community and the importance
of it and the value that it holds. With these two topics in mind, this, I have discovered
that some qualities of a good leader are their people skills and their knowledge
of people.
There
was quote that stood out to me by Cavett
Robert and it states that “15% of the reason [people] get a job, keep that
job and move ahead in that job, is determined by [their] technical skill and
knowledge-regardless of their profession . . .” but what about the other 85%? He
goes on to state that the remaining “85% of the reason people get a job, keep
that job, and move ahead in that job has to do with [their] people skills and
people knowledge.”
How
cool is that?! If it is this important within the workplace, how much more
critical is this in the characteristics of a good leader, for leadership is all
about people in relationships?
I
am reminded of the story of Hosea in the bible. Sometimes strengthening
relationships requires both the grace of God and A LOT of love. Hosea was a
prophet, and with that he was to share of Israel’s coming exile and later its restoration.
With the purpose of illustrating God’s love for the nation, he was told to
marry a prostitute named Gomer. Hosea did, but his heart was later shattered when
she was unfaithful and left him. The beauty of the story is his pursuit after
his wife despite the hurt she had caused him. Hosea sought out an emotionally broken girl, forgave her and renewed
their relationship as a married couple.
This
is such a beautiful image of God’s love for his unfaithful people. Furthermore,
it is such a beautiful model for leaders (and us as believers) to follow. At
times, every leader is called upon by God to seek out, forgive and restore those
who have sinned against them. In order to do this, you need God’s grace and
love (for it is love that covers a multitude of sins!)
Imagine
you are Hosea. What are you thinking? How are you feeling? How would you
respond, when God would call you to reconcile with your spouse that wronged
you? Why did he chase after his spouse? Is there a relationship in your life
that would need this kind of love to restore?
There
will be a time when God will call on you to reconcile with someone who has hurt
you. What you have is the power to control is how you will choose to respond. It
is worth remembering; all great leaders are familiar with forgiveness.
Wanna hear even more stories? Go and check out my primary blog at lizolson.wordpress.com!
