Start with Why (Christian Leadership 101: Part 2 of 10)

Scripture:

“Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” (Proverbs 29:18, KJV)

Why “Why” Matters in Leadership

Many leaders focus on what they do and how they do it, but the most effective leaders focus on why they do it. Simon Sinek, in his book Start with Why, explains that truly influential leaders—whether in business, ministry, or family—operate from a clear sense of purpose.

Jesus demonstrated this perfectly. He didn’t just perform miracles and teach moral lessons. Everything He did was tied to His why:

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10)

Jesus’ purpose gave meaning to His actions, and because of that, His leadership changed the world. As Christian leaders, we must ask ourselves: Do I have a clear “why” behind my leadership? If not, it’s time to discover it.

How to Find and Lead with Your Why

1. Clarify Your Calling

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

Every Christian has a calling, and every leader has a God-given mission. But too often, we get caught up in tasks rather than purpose. Leading without clarity is like trying to build a house without a blueprint—it leads to frustration and burnout.

✅ Action Step: Take 15 minutes to write down why you lead. What has God called you to do? How does your leadership serve that calling?

2. Communicate Your Why Clearly

“Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it.” (Habakkuk 2:2)

People don’t just follow leaders—they follow a vision. Whether you’re leading a church, a business, or a family, people need to know why your leadership matters.

Jesus constantly reinforced His purpose. When people questioned Him, He responded with clarity: “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God… for I was sent for this purpose.” (Luke 4:43) If your team, family, or church isn’t motivated, ask yourself: Have I clearly communicated the vision?

✅ Action Step: Write down your leadership vision in one sentence. Share it with someone this week.

3. Align Your Decisions with Your Why

“Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” (Matthew 5:37)

Leaders face constant demands, but without a clear why, it’s easy to become reactive rather than intentional. Every decision should either strengthen or distract from your purpose. A leader without a clear why says yes to everything. A leader with purpose says yes only to what aligns with their mission.

✅ Action Step: Look at your schedule this week. Are your commitments aligned with your why? If not, what needs to change?

Action Steps for Growth:

Write Down Your Personal “Why” – Take time to reflect on what drives your leadership.
Share Your Why with Your Team – Whether it’s your staff, small group, or family, communicate your purpose clearly.
Evaluate Your Priorities – Ensure your daily and weekly commitments align with your why.

Bottom Line

Leadership without purpose is exhausting. Leadership with a clear why is life-giving. Jesus led with purpose, and we are called to do the same. This week, clarify your why, share it boldly, and align your leadership with God’s calling.