Psalm 92:13-14 They are planted in the house of the LORD; they flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.
Growth is intentional and not automatic. Aging is not a choice; as the years roll by the grey hairs increase but aging gracefully and wisely is a choice. Growth in our spiritual, emotional, relational, occupational, ethical, professional dimensions should never stop until our last day on earth. We die the day we stop growing. If we are breathing without growing, we are only occupying space and wasting the resources of the earth!
Leaders with an unquenchable thirst to grow and innovate, and nurture others to grow are developmental leaders. The growth mindset of the Apostle Paul is very evident in the 13 letters that he wrote to the churches that he had established. Even in his absence, he sent letters to coach, teach and correct the congregation. He encouraged and equipped the leaders through his letters. Leaders do not retire. There is no end date in their life. The anointed scrolls have now become part of the New Testament that continues to shepherd, strengthen and stimulate the church even today.
The letters that he had penned to coach, teach and guide his adopted son Timothy and co-workers Titus, Aquila & Priscilla and others are testament to his growth mindset. “Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care” (1 Timothy 6:20-21). He laid the foundations of growth for the churches to thrive through integrity and humility. “In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (Titus 2:7b-8).
A hunger to learn, understand and acquire new skills makes a person a developmental leader.
Developmental Leaders:
- Teachable: Developmental leaders are always ready to learn, correct and to coach others.
- Thirsty: Developmental leaders are never satisfied with their accomplishments. They are not only thirsty for new ideas and hungry for knowledge but create an appetite in others to learn and grow.
- Transferable: Developmental leaders cannot hoard knowledge but their transferable skills coach others to thrive.
Grow and help others to grow.
Prayer: Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding, help me acquire knowledge and understanding and help others to grow. Amen.
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