Lead by Faith: Keep it Real

A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due season, how good it is. – Proverbs 15:23

Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to meet many famous people. I’ve met my fair share of Congressmen and Senators. I’ve met President’s Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush and Barack Obama. I’ve met entertainers ranging from Ed Sullivan to Bob Hope, from Kenny Rogers to Darius Rucker.

Recently I had the opportunity to meet and spend a few minutes talking with one of the most recognizable television preachers in the world today – Joel Osteen. Those interviewing him before me talked of world events or politics. We talked about leadership.

I asked him about the person who made the greatest impact on his life in his formation as a leader; and you probably guessed the answer – it was his father.

I then posed a question to him in the form of a quote by Charles “Tremendous” Jones who said, “You are the same today that you’ll be in five years except for two things: the people you meet and the books you read.” As I framed the question in the form of that quote something surprising happened. He helped me complete the quote. I was impressed!

He spoke of his fondness of reading biographies, history, and of course leadership books. His interest ranged from authors such as Dr. Phil to his friend John Maxwell. It’s hard not to listen to him speak and not pick up the fact that he is well-read.

My personal time with Joel Osteen confirmed what I suspected to be true. The person whom I was accustomed to seeing on TV was the same person I spoke with in private. The same warmth, humor, and smile that radiates from him on television was what you got in person. It was refreshing and it was real. There was no haughtiness or ‘airs” about him. It was just Doug and Joel talking like we had known one another for years.

What I came away with from the time I spent with Joel Osteen was this:

1. Authenticity and humility in leaders is an endearing quality.

2. You can reach more people through words of hope and encouragement than you can through condemnation.

3. There are a lot of hurting people who need hope.

4. If you honor God, speak life and blessing into the lives of others, God in return will bless you.

Psalm 37:23 says, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.” As you go forth to face the challenges of the week keep your faith strong, look to Him as you look for those you can serve. Keep it real.

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If you enjoy reading Doug’s leadership insights you will especially enjoy reading his books, Leaders Without Borders & Great Leaders Wanted, visit Doug’s website to order your copies today.