Proverbs 20: 11 “It is by his deeds that a lad makes himself known if his conduct is pure and right.” How a leader behaves, acts and lives show whether his conduct is worthy to be followed. He becomes known by his character and conduct which are imperative to leadership and having the trust of followers. One great contrast in our world today is the difference between Tim Tebow and Johnny Manziel, both recent Heisman Trophy winners and accomplished college football players. Tim Tebow is a committed Christian whose witness and testimony (conduct) of Jesus in his life has made himself known as a leader and example worth following. His deeds of missionary work and speaking for Christ have proved his Christian walk. A young lady broke up with him in recent months when he held to his pure and right conduct that he would not have sex until marriage. He would not compromise and made himself known for what the Bible says. This is spiritual leadership to be admired.

Unfortunately, Johnny Manziel has taken a far different path in life and is a party animal who is going down a road of self destruction and wasted talent. It is so sad to see this happen in a life so young and gifted. His current struggles with substance abuse, wild partying and domestic abuse have overshadowed his opportunity to become a starting quarterback in the NFL. He is in the media almost daily for deeds that make himself known for the wrong reasons. His own father recently stated that he doubted that Johnny would make it to his 24^th birthday. Deeds and conduct reflect what it is in the heart of a person. I have prayed for this young man for several years that he would find Jesus as his Lord and Savior and turn his life around. What an impact and leader he could be if his conduct became pure and right.

As you lead in your home, at work, at church or in the community, be diligent that your conduct and example are pure and right. Your spiritual impact, particularly on your children, may be the difference between a Tim and a Johnny. Actively lead them well.