Leader or Ladder?

I'm sure you're wondering what in the world this title means. LOL. Let me explain.

I was thinking about someone in particular that I'll be working with soon. She is a dear friend and someone I look up to and respect tremendously. She keeps saying, "when I start helping you", but then I say, "when I start helping you", lol. We both are looking at it like we're confused as to what's going to be happening. And that's okay, God will work it all out when the time comes. We both trust Him.

Anyway, I was thinking about our roles in life. Right now, in her current job, she's a leader. She is a GREAT leader, but I don't think she's fond of that particular position in life. Well, I'm not fond of being a leader either, lol. True story. So I'm thankful that we have God to lead us both.

Back on the topic.

What does a ladder do? Anyone? LOL.

A ladder is a structure consisting of a group of bars that aids in someone getting to a higher place. To help bring someone up to higher position; to raise someone up (Merriam-Webster).

What does a leader do?

A leader is the one in charge; someone who convinces other people to follow. One who influences a group toward an achievement or goal.

I like those definitions.

Proverbs 11:14 says: "Where there is no guidance, the people fall."

Exodus 18:21 says: "You shall select out of all the people, able men/women who fear God, those of truth, who hate dishonest gain, and you shall place them as leaders over thousands."

Now, I don't about you, but I think that sounds extremely important.

Only God can really choose a real leader. Only God can call someone like that mentioned above. I believe that no matter how much my friend is thinking that she will help me, it is I, who will help her.

I've been a leader in my life in various jobs and I found that it really wasn't my calling in each of the companies. I've also served as a ladder in various jobs and I've found that I like that position much better.

It's not because I didn't know what I was doing in the leadership roles. I was taught by my superiors on how to be in charge of employees and run things in those stores where I worked, but I really didn't like all that came with it.

I am a natural born cheerleader. I am a pep talker. I am one who can get the crowd pumped up for the leader when he/she takes over. I am an encourager. A ray of Sunshine. A positive influence on others. One who is able to talk you right out of a bad mood and cause you to count your blessings. So my job in life right now is a ladder. One who will help someone else climb higher.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 says: "Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you are doing."

I like that!!

Ephesians 4:29 says: "Let no unwholesome word come from your mouth, but only that which is good for edification according to the need of the moment".

I LOVE that!!

It seems that God has blessed me with the gift of encouragement. I'll take it.

I try my best to build up others and get them to realize that they are blessed, no matter how they are feeling. I try to have an inspiring word for the hurting when they need it.

I know what I've been through in life and I didn't always have anyone to cheer me on, so I want to be that for others as much as I can.

I honestly feel that my friend will be in the forefront with her leadership skills pulling people to Christ, while I'm in the background giving encouraging words to the those who are broken.

So, in the end, I have to say, allow your gift to find you. Allow your purpose to come to you and then you'll fulfill it and be able to help those you encounter.

There's nothing wrong with being a leader and there's nothing wrong with being a ladder. You just have to make sure the position you take is the one God wants you to have. I don't think I'm called to be a leader, but rather a ladder.

Whatever you are, be the best you can be. Be the best leader that God has ever called, or be the best ladder that He ever called. Either way, you are doing something for Him.

Remember to work hard and Dream Big!!

Much love,

Christy