You may have heard some variation of the title of this blog. The reality is that most people do it in reverse. They are focused on how-- how to accomplish something or how to achieve success in one’s career. For a Christian leader, it is critical to know first why before immersing himself in the hows.
It is easy to be tossed to and fro by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Because of the mini-fires we have to put out on a typical day, we tend to focus on solutions. Resolving issues and problems naturally direct our thoughts to the how question. How can I fix the leaking faucet? How can I find the money to support my child’s education? How can I fit the counseling session for a hurting sister? How can I balance my family obligations and my career?
Such questions may win us daily battles, but we may lose sight of the war. Please don’t misunderstand. I am not saying that the above items are trivial, much less wrong. On the contrary, without addressing the hows, we will accomplish nothing.
My point is that the hows must be anchored on the why. The words of the apostle Paul is relevant here. “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Scores of people want to discover how they will get food and water, and a thousand other life needs. These are not wrong. But what Paul is saying is that our pursuit of the how should all be for the glory of God. This aim is the ultimate why of life. If this is clear, then all the hows of this world will be constrained by this why.
Leadership frequently involves making tough choices. The answer to how is plural in many instances. A leader is expected to decide what’s best for his people. If you are clear about the why, then it will narrow down the answer to how.
Yes, there will still be challenges and dilemmas to crack. But if your reason for being is to glorify God, you have taken a giant step to find out how.
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