When I teach leadership to business executives and other groups, I have often asked the attendees to give me the major issues which they face in leading people and their organizations. One of the top issues every time is that of a lack of work ethic among their people. Christian leaders should be an example of hard work and set the environment and pace for others to follow. This also is important for a man in his own home and family. A man should teach his children to work hard and to have a work ethic that honors Christ.

Colossians 3:23-24 “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men; knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” This verse means that we are to work hard and honor Christ in the workplace and at home. Your work habits impact the culture in which you are leading. A leader is not one who has made it and becomes exempt from hard work. For an effective and exemplary leader, it is often the opposite. Leadership is always an active process which requires the leader to hold himself accountable, as well as those whom he leads. If a leader wants his people to arrive on time and stay until the day is completed, then he must be the one who sets the example. It may mean to work late some days. A leader should ask, “What are my people seeing when they watch me at work?”

A family project may need to be handled the same way and it teaches not only a work ethic to our children, but also perseverance. Men, you and your wife should make work assignments for your children according to their ages. You must also hold them accountable for the assignment. This is family leadership which will help prepare them for life. Where else at a young age will they learn leadership and a work ethic? My father showed and taught me a work ethic on the farm, which I was not particularly fond of at the time. In later life starting with college and then my career, I had a great appreciation for his leading and showing me how to work hard. He honored and served the Lord and expected me to do the same. That impact is still working in my life today. Remember, it is the Lord Christ whom you serve, so lead and work heartily for Him.