Though it sounds goofy to some, I unashamedly rely upon this question to help me be a better person and project manager, and a better leader:

“What would Jesus do?”

Consider what we discover from the New Testament accounts of Jesus:

• Jesus is both tough and tender, bold and gentle. Jesus loves people.

• He places relationships above short-term or selfish gains.

• Jesus finds ways to accomplish goals by developing the potential of others.

• He believes in people even when they don’t believe in themselves.

• He gives clear feedback when people have an unrealistic view of themselves, others, or the world.

• Jesus praises and rebukes.

When given very difficult questions – even questions designed to make him look bad – he finds a way to express the truth so that even his enemies respect him.

• Jesus thinks big, really big, and treasures the small.

• He is innovative and inspiring to others, bringing new ideas, new teaching, and creative solutions to significant problems.

• Jesus holds the long view, but is also fully present with every person he meets.

• He is delighted with progress, and difficult to satisfy because he knows you can be better.

• Jesus builds illustrations from everyday things that even a child can understand. He is a master story-sharer.

Jesus laughed and cried. Though he has an analytical ability that pierces complex situations he does not shy away from emotions.

• Jesus gets angry at the right things.

• Jesus doesn’t compromise. Jesus speaks plainly and clearly; no one doubts he means what he says.

• Jesus speaks the truth – we know this because we observe that some people have to work very, very hard to reject it.

• He does not fear. He believes that all things are possible.

• Jesus knows his true mission. Jesus came here to transform the human experience. Jesus knows the best way to live.

• Jesus perseveres, endures, and does not quit.

• Jesus knows who he is, and Whose he is.

As Christian leaders, we rely upon the Holy Spirit to help us become more and more like Jesus:

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV).

And:

…for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure (Philippians 2:13, ESV).

We can use the model Jesus gives us as a framework for evaluating opportunities, making choices, and building lasting value in our organizations.

I worship God that as a leader called by God I can follow Jesus’s model. May the grace of God give you encouragement and wisdom in every leadership opportunity, and may you have confidence that God’s ways will truly be the best.

Hallelujah, and amen!

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