How to lead people.

“So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. But since you excel in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you – see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭8‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ 

Paul urged Titus to finish what he had begun. Titus had been commissioned for a task in Corinth. He was to bring a report on how they had responded to Paul’s severe letter. Inspired by the church in Macedonia, who despite their poor and difficult circumstances entered into the collection for the poor in Jerusalem, he now says how the impact on him meant he had urged Titus to make sure the Corinthians also moved in grace. “Complete the task” was Titus’ responsibility and Paul urged him to do just that. 

Paul then begins to praise them for many things, faith, speech, knowledge, earnestness and love. They were excelling in these things. Quite a statement. He is leading to asking them to be involved in the collection but first he wants them to know he is pleased with everything else. He actually doesn’t ask them to give but masterfully tells them to excel in giving in the same way they have excelled in other areas. People who feel valued are more likely to be involved in the stretch of new areas. 

Some leaders simply demand more and make it clear they’re wanting more from those they lead. Paul wasn’t doing this. He cultivated excellence in people by helping them see they are of those who pursue it. There is a huge difference between demanding people do what you want and calling them to become all that they can be. 

For you, take a look at those areas you also excel in, maybe they are the same list as the Corinthians. How did you begin to be so good in those graces? Can you use the same commitment and the same desire to excel in the areas the Holy Spirit shows you?