Leadership Laws: The Law of E. F. Hutton Part 4

Daniel Speaks, People Listen-Daniel 5:13, 14

When Daniel spoke, everyone listened. Why? People listened to Daniel for the following reasons:

  1. Relationships: People listen to us because of who we know. Daniel had a reputation for knowing the God of Israel.
  2. Sacrifice: People listen to us because of what we have suffered. Daniel gave up his right to eat the king’s food.
  3. Character: People listen to us because of our integrity. Daniel remained blameless and trustworthy even when he had to rebuke kings.
  4. Relevance: People listen to us because we identify with their needs. Daniel lived with the Babylonians and identified with their struggles and lifestyle.
  5. Insight: People listen to us because of what we know. Daniel could interpret dreams and visions that confused everyone else.
  6. Vulnerability: People listen to us because we are genuinely transparent. Daniel’s life was an open book.
  7. Experience: People listen to us because we’ve succeeded in the past. Daniel’s credibility came from years of living well.
  8. Humility: People listen to us when we incarnate meekness. Daniel served and submitted to authorities unless they broke a higher law.
  9. Competence: People listen to us because of our abilities and expertise. Daniel did many things better than anyone else.
  10. Courage: People listen to us because we demonstrate conviction. Daniel was no one’s puppet and showed he would die for his convictions.

Inmate Takes Command-Acts 27:1-44

As an inmate on a virtual prison ship, Paul began with no influence (Acts 27:11). By the end of the voyage, however, everyone was listening to him, including the centurion. Note how this leader gained his influence:

  1. He built trust (v. 3). Julius allowed Paul special privileges, noting his trustworthiness.
  2. He took initiative (vv. 9, 10). With no position or permission, Paul stepped in and took action.
  3. He possessed good judgment (v. 10). Paul’s speech revealed wisdom and experience.
  4. He spoke with authority and credibility (v. 21). Paul unashamedly reminded the crew he had been right earlier.
  5. He was optimistic and confident (vv. 22-24). Paul spoke boldly.
  6. He gave encouragement (v. 25). Paul gave hope for survival and rescue.
  7. He was honest (v. 26). Paul candidly told the crew they would face problems.
  8. He didn’t compromise on absolutes (vv. 27-32). Paul wouldn’t drift from God-given instructions.
  9. He stayed focused (vv. 33, 34). Paul focused on objectives, not obstacles.
  10. He led by example (vv. 35-38). Paul led by modeling the right attitude.
  11. He ultimately succeeded (vv. 39-44). Paul eventually accomplished what he set out to do.

Lesson About Influence-1 Timothy 4:12-16

How can Timothy prevent anyone from looking down on him because of his youth? By being an example; this will ensure his influence (1 Tim. 4:15, 16). The more you walk, the less you have to talk. Our leadership is more caught than taught. People would rather see a sermon than hear one.

Join me next time for Leadership Qualities: Competence Part 1.