Jeff Ragan’s Reviews > Seasons of a Leader’s Life: Learning, Leading, and Leaving a Legacy > Status Update

"When you get to the end, however, will all of it combined even come close to what Jesus has accomplished in and through you? Not hardly! Your ultimate legacy is giving glory to Jesus for what he has done in your life, praising him for what he's accomplished despite your inadequacies, and thanking him for enabling you to leave behind a blessing for others" (226).

"Life isn't a dress rehearsal; it's a live performance. You lead live; there's no video replay possible. Whether you are facing angry church leaders, out-of-control bloggers, or a multimillion-dollar building decision, you don't get a dry run before the real thing has to be faced and resolved" (209).

"...he pointed out that the primary function of pastoral leadership is shepherding people...he identified the deadening temptation for pastors/elders/ministers as the love of money...he reminded us that the foundation for leadership success is transformed character, particularly demonstrated by humility...Peter clearly reminded us that the opposition to Christian leadership is spiritual, led by Satan..." (204).

"...the core problem is confusion about our purpose...Christian leadership is about helping people change - it is not just about getting things done. For Christian leaders, our priority should be helping people to develop as disciples who reflect the image of Jesus Christ...The end - and the beginning and middle - of Christian leadership is getting people to commit to and become more like Jesus" (194-5).

"That dark night of my soul seared this reality into me: When there's nothing left in life but Jesus, he's enough. He really is. Since that night, many things that formerly overwhelmed, angered, or consumed me just haven't been important any more...when you are empty and alone - Jesus is enough. This one conviction is almost a life-legacy by itself. No matter what, have confidence in Jesus" (185).

"As we improve our skills, develop our character, and gain more experience, we usually make fewer mistakes. We may also learn to quickly recognize a bad decision and chart a corrective course. Effective leaders are more likely to get counsel from others - particularly on technical issues like legal matters. This more deliberate approach also cuts down on mistakes" (170).

"Your fundamental challenge is to identify your convictions and hold to them without compromise while at the same time demonstrating patience and grace with other believers who have differing commitments and preferences" (158).

"...get over your idealized view of Christian behavior. Don't be jaded but be realistic about your expectations. All Christians, including other leaders, are still sinners, and some will occasionally act out in the worst way. Accept this fact: Sooner or later you will face a situation that requires intervention It's going to happen so prepare for it long before the situation arises" (142).

"A genuine divine intervention always has one or both of these two results: God is glorified, and people are saved. When these moments occur, part of their validation and authentication as being from God is whether or not people are awed at God's power and drawn to faith in Jesus. These are the two primary results in these stories about Peter" (130).

"Leaders deal with complex situations. The more senior your leadership role, the more complicated the situations will be...There's often not a single Bible verse or passage that speaks to these kinds of complicated issues. Leaders must be able to use the Bible...interweaving texts to create a composite answer for thorny, complicated situations" (120).