What does it mean to lead by example? It means to demonstrate behavior that should be done instead of simply saying what should be done. You know the saying “Do as I say, not as I do” but isn’t that too hypocritical. You can’t expect people to understand you or respect you if your actions do not measure up to your words. Yes we all fall short of being good leaders at times, but everyday we should strive to be better than the last. Whether you are aware of it or not, someone is watching and admiring you. You do not have to have a specific leadership title, but there are people who admire certain qualities about you and are looking for yo u to be their guide. The bible states “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity,” Titus 2:7. We have to be the models of good works, so my challenge to you this week is to lead by example. Instead of gossiping and complaining, or being quick-tempered, show that you have integrity and dignity and that you’re actions speak louder than your words.

We are about to enter in to a new season. Winter- characterized as having shorter days, longer nights, cold/frigid temperatures, barren, and sometimes desolate. When it comes to Winter you definitely need survival tips. Will you go out in a snow storm wearing a pair of shorts and flip flops? I don’t think so. Some of us maybe in this season in our lives already. Some may be entering this season or on your way out. Regardless of the fact, we will all face tough times where the days are short, the nights, are long, you feel cold on the inside because of past hurts, failed relationships, doubt, regret, and so forth. We will sometimes feel unproductive and even appear to be left desolate but I want you to remember this

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)

God has you protected. So even though times are rough, or will be rough, just know that God has your best interest at heart. Nothing can keep you or separate you from God’s love. So just remember this when you feel like the world is against you or your storm is hard to bear, call on God. Depend on him for your survival.

“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.” Erma Bombeck

Yesterday I attended the Kings Men concert which featured Gospel recording artist Marvin Sapp, Israel Houghton, Donnie McClurkin, and Kirk Franklin at the Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn. I’m an avid concert goer, but this was my first gospel concert and probably one of the best concerts that I have ever attended. What made the concert so awesome was the presence of God and to see 11,000 people praising God. That was truly awesome. Anyway, with gospel music you have to do more than just sing a song, you have to minister to a person’s soul and that was definitely done last night.

One thing that I took away from the concert was just to live your life to the fullest, meaning follow your dreams and walk in your purpose. We can’t worry about if others would approve of our decisions, only person we should seek approval from is God. We must seeks God guidance with everything in our lives. God doesn’t want us to lead or live miserable lives. He doesn’t want us to be unhappy. In order for us to live life to the fullest, we must first figure out what talents, gifts, skills, and abilities God has given us and cultivate them in order to walk in our purpose and meet the needs of people.

Step out on faith and say bye bye to fear, doubt, insecurities, and all of the negative thoughts and people in your life. God does not want you to settle. John 10:10 says “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Do not let anyone kill, steal, or destroy what God has intended for you to have. Don’t get in your own way as well. I hope this helps someone as it has helped me.

Have a blessed and productive week my loves!

“If we are growing, we are always going to be outside of our comfort zone.” John Maxwell

“To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them.” Charles de Montesquieu