Scripture:
“And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” (2 Timothy 2:2)
Great Leaders Think Beyond Themselves
Many leaders focus on what they can accomplish during their lifetime, but John Maxwell teaches that the greatest leaders invest in others so their impact continues long after they are gone.
This is the essence of legacy leadership—it’s not about making a name for yourself, but about raising up leaders who will carry the mission forward.
Jesus lived with this mindset. Instead of just preaching to crowds, He poured His life into 12 disciples, knowing they would continue His work after He returned to the Father. True leadership is not measured by personal success, but by the leaders you develop.
How to Lead with a Legacy Mindset
1. Shift from Success to Significance
“The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
Many leaders chase personal success—titles, influence, and recognition. But great leaders don’t just aim for success; they aim for significance. They measure their leadership by the lives they impact, not by their own achievements.
Ask yourself: Am I more focused on my personal success or on helping others grow?
✅ Action Step: Identify one person you can intentionally mentor or invest in this month.
2. Develop and Empower Other Leaders
“Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. He chose capable men… and made them leaders.” (Exodus 18:24-25)
Moses was leading an entire nation alone until Jethro told him to delegate leadership. Many leaders burn out because they try to do everything themselves instead of training others to lead.
If you are the only one leading, your leadership dies with you. If you develop leaders, your impact continues for generations.
✅ Action Step: Delegate a leadership responsibility to someone this week and help them grow into the role.
3. Leave Something That Outlives You
“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.” (Proverbs 13:22)
What will be left behind when your leadership is over? Great leaders build something that outlives them.
- Jesus left disciples who carried His message to the world.
- Paul mentored Timothy and Titus, who continued planting churches.
- Billy Graham raised up new evangelists who continued preaching the Gospel.
If you lead with a legacy mindset, your leadership won’t stop with you—it will multiply.
✅ Action Step: Write down what you want your leadership legacy to be. What do you want to leave behind?
Action Steps for Growth:
- Mentor Someone. Invest in a younger leader and help them grow.
- Empower Others. Stop leading alone—train and delegate responsibilities.
- Build a Lasting Impact. Focus on developing leaders who will continue the work beyond your time.
Bottom Line.
Your leadership isn’t about you—it’s about who you raise up. The greatest leaders build something that lasts beyond their lifetime by developing others, empowering their teams, and thinking generationally.
This week, start investing in the next generation of leaders. Your greatest legacy won’t be what you accomplish—it will be who you equip to carry the mission forward.
Reflection Questions for Leaders:
- Am I focused on personal success or developing others?
- Who am I actively mentoring and equipping to lead?
- What will my leadership legacy be when I’m gone?
Thank You for Following This Leadership Series!
I hope these 10 leadership lessons have challenged and encouraged you to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a long-term vision. Which lesson impacted you the most? Let’s keep growing together.
