Invest in God's kingdom by developing tomorrow's Christian leaders

Leadership.

Many strive to achieve it, few master it.

It is a position of influence that can lead others to evil, e.g. Hitler and Hussein, or lead to good, e.g. Lincoln and Churchill. Christian leadership is used by God to advance the cause of Christ. People like Billy Graham (BGEA) and Bill Bright (CCCI) have been used by God to bring millions into His kingdom. But Christian leaders are needed in schools, homes and communities. They are needed in marriages and ministries. And these leaders are developed through discipleship as the Great Commission is carried out around the world.

Developing Christian leaders, men who know and do the will of God, is part of the discipleship role of WorldReach.

Since August, I have been co-leading a leadership study for a local high school football team. It is done as part of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes huddle on campus. God has given me the privilege to co-lead this discipleship group with a coach from a major college football program. Our desire is to see these athletes not only excel in sports, but to become spiritual leaders on their campus, in their community, at their churches, and ultimately, throughout their life.

It is a sacrifice for these guys. The sessions begin at 7:00am, an hour earlier than most will usually arrive on campus. Their day is already full with school and football practice. However, they have the desire to be Christian leaders and are willing to be inconvenienced to attend the non-mandatory training.

It is not convenient for the coach or me, either. Our day begins as early as those who attend; maybe even earlier. We have to make certain the room is set up with sound and video, and the coach always picks up Chik-fil-a chicken biscuits and orange juice for our group breakfast. Our regular jobs are still filled with the tasks that need to be done, but we believe God gave us this opportunity to invest in His kingdom through the lives of these young men.

After five weeks, we have heard testimonies of the changes God is making in their lives. Only He knows the depth of these changes and how He will use them to mold their character for the tasks to which He will call them. As long as they remain faithful to their Lord, and we remain faithful to His truth, God will continue to transform these athletes into fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ - leaders within His body.

It is usually not convenient to join God, but He never promised us that following Him would be convenient; however, it is rewarding, not just in how you see others being used by God, but in the knowledge that you are being obedient to do what He has called you to do.

As God gives you opportunities to invest in His kingdom by discipling others, be sure to obey Him and do it; then enjoy seeing Him developing His leaders of tomorrow.