GENERATION TO GENERATION

Was sitting in my office thinking that it has been awhile since I wrote a blog. So here I am thinking about what to write???? Still thinking??? Ok! I figured something out. Can you guess what it is going to be about??? That is right -- LEADERSHIP!

Leadership is just one of those things that makes me tick. I love to read about it, learn about it, and teach it to other people. I believe that great leadership is what separates people from the pack. It is what makes the difference between someone who loves God, and someone who truly makes a difference even beyond his own life time. You see, the impact that you make today effects your tomorrow.  Today lets look at the story of Elijah and Elisha and the passing on of leadership to the next generation.

Many people make some kind of difference in their lifetime. It is said that even the most introverted person on the earth will influence 10,000 people during their lifetime. So you are bound to have some kind of impact in someone's life. But few people take the time about being purposeful with the people that they will influence in their lifetime. Today I want to share with you a few key points that I have come across when looking for someone to pour into. 

1. Mutual Vision

Followers do not naturally line up with a leader whose vision they don't respect. Both Elijah and Elisha possessed a vision to serve God for the sake of their generation. When Elisha had the opportunity to leave His old life of farming and follow Elijah's vision and leadership he did it. 

2. Mutual Expectation

Mutual Expectation develops naturally from mutual vision. Both Elijah and Elisha expected to do great things for God. That is why Elisha was a great choice to pass the baton to. He want the same things that Elijah did.

3. Mutual Contribution 

Individuals follow leaders because they believe those leaders can take them where they want to go. Leaders enlist followers because they understand that followers help them to realize their vision. Both people in the relationship need to learn to play their role and to grow off of each other. 

4. Mutual Commitment

Without strong mutual commitment, leaders and followers cannot achieve their mutual goals. As Elijah neared the end of his leadership, Elisha renewed his commitment to his mentor. Three times when Elijah offered to release his protege, Elisha respond, "I will not leave you!". Elijah's commitment to Elisha had grown equally strong, culminating in his offer to do whatever he could for his servant-including the blessing of a double portion of his spirit. 

All four of these things need to be present when looking for someone to pass the baton to. Remember if you are not developing someone to take your place you can never go up. 

P. Jesse