Leadership: qualities of a good manager

Memorise: “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise” (Prov 6:6).

Read: Proverbs 6:6-8

Today’s reading hits us with some realities we cannot ignore. This passage is particularly directed at the slothful as well as anyone in need of wisdom. The instruction “Go to the ants” provides several lessons for us. First, it means that there is something the head can learn from the tail.

There are lessons leaders should learn from their followers. Bosses and managers have lessons they should learn from their subordinates.

The only thing that can prevent such a head from learning from those under them is pride. Are you a leader? There are certain lessons your followers can teach you. If you are humble enough to learn them, you will be a more successful leader.

Despising such lessons from subordinates can hinder God’s plan for our lives. To learn from your subordinates, humble yourself, come to their level. Be friendly, talk less but listen more. Ask questions and note their replies and suggestions. Observe their behavioural patterns, and ask God to help you learn what you should from them.

Another lesson from this passage is that your size should not affect your performance, achievements, or destiny. Consider an instance, Apostle Paul; physically, he was very short. He could almost go for a pygmy. Yet that petit stature did not prevent his gigantic academic achievement. He read law to the highest level – doctorate. He stood out amongst his peers. He achieved more than his peers.

Spiritually, too, he was an apostle of apostles. He wrote more books than any one in the New Testament and his writings are still affecting more generations than any other. He refused to let his physical handicap limit him. What is that limitation or handicap in your life? Is that your excuse for non-performance? It is not acceptable! Making excuses is a choice.

If anyone had reasons not to be outstanding, Paul did. But he decided to prove everyone else wrong. His name – Paul – meant ‘little’. He decided to accomplish like a giant, and it came to pass. Beloved, you have no excuse for not achieving greatness and being outstanding in your generation. If little ants can achieve, you can. You can achieve any dream, no matter its size as long as you link up with the Almighty God. From today, wake up. No more excuses.