I John 2:6 “Whoever claims to abide in Christ (follow) ought himself to walk (lead) in the same manner (example) as He (Jesus) walked (led).” Our Scripture this week has no ambiguity and leaves no doubt about being a spiritual leader and example of Christ every day. Every man who claims to follow Christ and to be a Christian has no choice but to lead his own life following the example of Christ. Some men say that they do not want to be a leader and this is cowering to the deception of the enemy who does not want them to make an impact in other lives.

A number of years ago, Charles Barkley, the former NBA player and now television commentator, said that he did not want to be viewed as a leader or role model. Too bad! He is and it is not always good. Every Christian man is a role model and leader of some degree because the decision has already been made as we see in our verse this week. The only question is what kind of leader and role model? There are three ways to lead by example: 1) Follow an example – Jesus, 2) Be an example – man’s own daily walk and leadership and 3) Leave an example – your life and legacy. You living your life today and building the legacy that you will leave your family and others. What legacy of spiritual example and leadership will you leave your family, your work place, your church and your community? In today’s anti-Christian culture, your example of Christ and spiritual impact may make the difference in almost every life you touch.

First and foremost, look at your family. The greatest wedding gift that parents can give their children is the gift of an example of their own godly home and Christian marriage. This is what it means to lead by example and the world is offering so many alternatives that are not godly and are void of God’s truth. We live in a busy world and men must look at this treadmill of life and step off the fast track to set priorities of time and bonding with those whom he leads. Grandparents must make special efforts to spend time with grandchildren to lead them from their love, spiritual heritage and wisdom. That is a legacy worth leaving, not money, possessions and material things.

We know what we ought to do, so let’s do it. The outcome should have eternal consequences in the lives we touch. The evidence of effective leadership is seen in the lives of the followers. A leader who makes no difference in the lives of his followers is not really a leader.