Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ – I Corinthians 11:1 (KJV)
We often get the impression that great leaders follow no one and learn from no one but themselves. This is an erroneous belief that has derailed many leaders. As a good leader, you must first and foremost be a good follower. This is why the leadership that makes the most impact in our lives is leadership by example. Leaders who can be led follow the examples of leaders who have gone ahead of them and are not afraid to obey the principles that they profess.
Jesus, the greatest of leaders, said “I can of myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and my judgment is righteous, because I do not seek my own will but the will of the Father who sent me” (John 5:30 NKJV). Jesus lived by example by obeying God; in the same way, we have also been called to lead but not without first being led. Leadership without guidance will result in failure. Those who choose not to be led are like goats who can never find their way home.
Confession: I am a leader who is willing to be led. I follow Christ and learn from those who follow Him.