John Stanko

"Before a downfall the heart is haughty,
    but humility comes before honor" - Proverbs 18:12.

Leaders are often accorded honor, but it can be 'heady wine,' so to speak, and give them an inflated sense of importance and a big head. When leaders start to believe they have earned their honor, they can be upset when they don't receive the honor they think they deserve. This can cause leaders to do what they do to get attention and honor, and consequently their activities have an ulterior motive beyond serving others and their organizations. The only biblical road to honor is humility along with a proper perspective that the most important honor comes from the Lord.

LEADERSHIP STEP: Today you need to do a heart reality check to see if you have begun to expect honor. Do you feel slighted or hurt when bypassed for certain recognition and praise? When is the last time you honored someone else and said thank you? Think of ways in your organization (or your family) to honor others for their contributions, thus assuring you will stay humble and esteem others above yourself. How about a special award to recognize outstanding attitude or service, even in your family or school?