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Key Bible Verse: Jesus called out to them, "Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!" (Mark 1:17). Bonus Reading: Mark 1:16-20

In some ways Jesus' earthly leadership began when he called his first followers—Peter (Simon), Andrew, James, and John. He asked those four, who were to become some of his most devoted and productive followers, to "follow me."

Jesus showed how spectacularly successful a leader can be with carefully chosen followers from all walks of life. Be sure you don't miss the most capable potential followers because your focus is too narrow. Anyone can hire the best-dressed person with the highest class-rank from the most prestigious college. Real leaders look hard for real people with real virtues.

When you discover someone you really want to be involved in your endeavor, don't be coy. Ask him to join you. People want to be asked and feel needed. Even when they say no—and some will—they'll feel good about themselves and you, simply because you asked.

Resist the temptation to extend your invitation through a third party, a letter, e-mail, or phone call. Real leaders invite to the team those persons necessary for the greater success. No other invitations pack the same power and appeal. Jesus personally asked people to follow him; so should you.

—Bob Briner in The Leadership Lessons of Jesus

My Response: The person I'd most like to join in my endeavor is ____.

Adapted from The Leadership Lessons of Jesus (with Ray Pritchard, B&H Publishing, 1997, 1998, 2008) by permission.

Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Grow me, Lord, into an unselfish leader who stimulates other disciples to increasing commitment and effectiveness.

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