31 Ways to Grow Your Leadership – #5

The Challenge

John Maxwell often says, “Leadership is influence.” And the thing about influence is, it’s extremely fragile. You can spend years building credibility only to lose it with a single decision.

We live in a world that says, “Do whatever makes you happy,” but Proverbs reminds us, not everything that makes you happy will make you healthy. Some temptations look harmless in the moment, but they take you places you never planned to go and cost more than you ever wanted to pay.

Wise leaders set guardrails before the cliff is even in sight.

The Solution

📖 Proverbs 5:21 (NLT):
“For the Lord sees clearly what a man does, examining every path he takes.”

PROCESs It

This verse is both a warning and a comfort.
Warning: You can’t hide from God. He sees every decision, every compromise, every “nobody will know” moment.
Comfort: You don’t have to lead alone. The same God who sees your steps can help you choose the right ones.

The Hebrew word for “examining” here is intentional: it’s the idea of weighing, considering, and evaluating. God doesn’t just glance at our path; He studies it. He knows where it leads. That means His boundaries aren’t there to rob us – they’re there to protect us.

APPLY It

Integrity doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built decision by decision. Here’s how to guard yours this week:

• At School:
  Refuse to cheat on homework, tests, or relationships. Shortcuts may help now, but they hurt later.
• At Home:
  Be honest about where you’ve been and what you’ve been doing. Integrity at home builds trust that makes leading easier.
• At Work:
  Keep your word, even if it costs you time or convenience. Show people your “yes” means yes.
• At Church:
  Serve with pure motives. Don’t do it for applause, credit, or attention – do it for God’s glory.

BOTTOM LINE

Leaders who protect their influence by striving to lead with integrity.