Count

the Cost

There was a show on Netflix called “How To Be Rich”, where the financial advising host showed couples how to live their “Rich Life”. To obtain this lifestyle, the couples would first envision the things they would do if money were no object (ie. eat out, travel or luxury items). Then they would assess what in their current lifestyle they were willing to sacrifice to afford that dream today. Were they willing to cut out cable/streaming, brew their own coffee or perform their own self care services like hair and nails? The point being, those willing to sacrifice temporary pleasures can achieve the life they desired.

That same challenge confronts us all today as we form as leaders. Those you lead depend on your daily denials of instant gratification in pursuit of consistent discipline. Those practices develop the muscles needed to lead when things are hard and the path forward isn’t clear. By choosing not to stay up late, we determine the productivity of our next day. By not skipping our morning devotion, we receive clarity from God and alignment with his will. By not avoiding the difficult conversations, we achieve resolution in our relationships. Private discipline precedes public leadership.

Jesus challenged his disciples to count the cost when choosing to following him. In similar fashion, when aspiring to be a leader, consider the sacrifice needed to achieve. Daily intentional sacrifices prepare the leadership required for the hardships of life. What present comforts are we willing to give up for future leadership discipline? Are we intentionally choosing a disciplined life? Our families, churches and communities depend on us choosing right, so let’s do it!