22/12/2024
I am sharing this testimony in the hope that it will encourage someone who sees themselves as a leader but is holding back because perhaps they are worried about how they may be perceived by others, the shame factor or in the disappointment of being let down...
So, there have been countless times when I have initiated a gathering of some kind, for example: a birthday celebration, discover Arbonne event, community meeting, ministry connect or business workshop....
I can not tell you how many times people say "YES I'll be there," or "I'll get back to you..." And then they don't, or just totally ghost you altogether.
Of course, there is God's grace, too! 🙏🏽
But you know what...
Despite paying for hall hire fees and buying enough catering to feed an unexpected army, as well as sacrificing time and energy to invest into these visions that I wholeheartedly believe in...with plenty of empty seats...I've been continuing to SHOW UP & SHOW UP & SHOW UP since the year 2010 (my first year out of high school). That's now going on 14 years, which I think is enough evidence to demonstrate that at least I am consistent in showing up.
The moral of the story is that to be a solid leader, it doesn't matter who doesn't show up. It matters who does. The people who end up present in the space are deserving of your time and energy despite any disappointment. I serve a God who is good and faithful, and because my trust is in Him, I know that every circle that is established for the purpose of bringing Him honour and glory, it means that these efforts are not done in vain.
So, if you feel a call to lead with kingdom intention, then focus on God, not the perception of others, or the shame or the disappointment. Show up anyway. And keep showing up for as long as you have breath in your lungs.
.burley
