Hello!

I find myself sometimes in a state of anxiety because of my need to be significant. Thoughts rush my mind as I feel that “I’m not good enough.” My constant need to validate my credentials is rooted in feeling second best.

If we look closer at our need for significance, we can find a root to our general anxiety of life. If I can say, “I am good enough.” That that would be the end of it. But even If I accomplish the next big thing, there will always be something else that makes me feel inferior to my fellow man.

I was touring Liberty University with my oldest son. We decided to stop by Washington D.C. One thing is for sure, we live in an amazing country.

Virginia is a beautiful state and area full of history. I can’t wait to make this trip again with everyone else in my family.

In a sermon I heard today, we learned that in order to find peace, we have to “come in second place.” When we put ourselves in front of Christ with our ego, only pain will be found.

This reminds of the a Bible verse found in Exodus 31:2-3: “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship.” We learn the example that all talent comes from God and should magnify Him.

There are many instances in leadership of joy and achievement; however, more often than not, it can be a burden. Is this burden an actual adversity or is it self imposed? One biblical instance that comes to mind is the story of Moses and his father-in-law Jethro.

Jethro advises Moses that it was not good for him to handle all matters that were being brought to him. He set an example to Moses being giving him real feedback and giving him a roadmap on how to set a system of delegation. We often set the burden of micromanagement on ourselves.

The U.S. Navy uses trained dolphins to search and identify explosive mines in treacherous waters. The dolphins are able to mark the mines which allow the naval ships to navigate around enemy traps. Using sonar technology, servicemen and women are able to safely execute their mission by navigation or intentional demolition of the explosives.

There is an other creature in the water that brings fear. A sea beast that is in search of blood. That is the shark. It can not be trained to search for mines. Its only desire is its need for sustenance. It brings fear to even the most experienced sailor.

In your leadership journey, as yourself: Am I a dolphin or a shark? Do I guide and search for danger in difficult environments or do I bring fear to those around me?