Man is a relational being, created by God to relate and interact with his environment. Little wonder after the creation of Adam in the Bible, a need came for a companion to be made for him. Adam never saw the need for a partner in his “Garden of Eden” assignment, but God saw the need.
And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” – Genesis 2: 18
This pattern has continued from creation till today. No man makes much progress in isolation. This does not downplay the importance of standing alone in some situations, encouraging oneself or fighting through for what you believe to be right even when no one supports you.
Any true follower of Jesus’ leadership model is already armed with the knowledge that God is with him and as such has nothing to fear, even though he walks through the valley of the shadow of death, he fears no evil for God is with him (Ps. 23:4).
The emphasis is to ignite the art of positive supportive relationships. And this has been the strategy of any great man or woman who had lasting influence. The vision may begin with one but must advance with many. This shows the importance of having friends, families, and colleagues who could be of great help to you in your visionary endeavors. This is in keeping with the common saying, “If you run alone, you will go fast, but when you run together, you will go far.”
In the Bible, Daniel had such a sphere of influence whom he could always run to for support and collaboration, and they never failed him. Their partnership was so strong that they even found favor in the sight of the King’s Chief Eunuch assigned to care for their food (Daniel 1:8-9).
Many visions grow weak and even die because of a lack of supportive relationships; Some organizations keep having losses and consider folding up, and many families are in shambles all because of poor relationships.
Jesus, the greatest leader with the best leadership model, showed us a great example through the approach He took in selecting His disciples. His ministry was fulfilled because He collaborated with His disciples and at a point, His friends.
We all need that one who will stand with us, encourage us, correct us when necessary, defend us and speak for us; but we must first be such for another.
Below are some qualities needed to have an effective sphere of influence as a Christian leader:
- Always commit your plans to God and be willing to allow Him to guide your steps (Proverbs 16:3).
- Be humble and willing to learn.
- Be quick to listen and slow to speak.
- Never look down on anyone. They may be your climbing block to the next level of life.
- Learn to periodically evaluate your friendships with people; some are made to stay with you for a long time while some for a short while.
- Practice the art of appreciation.
One of the ways God expresses his presence with you is to send useful friends in your life journey. Make sure you are not standing alone!
Michael Okuneye is a certified Facilitator with Lead like Jesus and also the African Representative. Experienced with missions and leadership matters since 1993. He is the Executive Director of Livingword Global leadership Mission; served as a missionary in Niger, Chad and in Nigeria where he resides, training Church Planters and Community Champions to build stronger and transformational churches in Africa. Having raised and trained many leaders in several nations, it has given him the voice in Leadership matters in Nigeria. He served as the Assistant to the National director of Bible league in Chad, later rose to National Head of Operations of Bible League Nigeria before proceeding to advance the course of Leadership and Mission. He is currently the Coordinator of the Teens Church in his local assembly where he raises leaders. As a great motivator, he has encouraged many, coupled with his unique approach to coaching and mentoring lives in diverse fields of specialization, more than 10,000 lives have been affected by his leadership. He is also championing the cause of community development in rural areas for positive changes. He is married to Titilope his best friend and they are blessed with five boys.
