I meet every Tuesday morning with most of the Liberty High coaching staff.  We have an accountability time and I have continued teaching leadership as we make our way through Judges.  Had some good conversations this past Tuesday about Gideon and his leadership styles.  Some of my thoughts on Gideon and his style of leadership:

Every good leader knows, people buy into the leader first, then the vision.

Seven qualities that attract people to a leader:
1. Calling - few things are as compelling as a leaders calling.  It was obvious Gideon had been called to lead this group into battle.  His men saw it.  They felt it.  They has started with over 30,000 men.  God dwindled that number to 300.  Gideon took these 300 and led them into battle against thousands.  Why did these 300 men follow him?  they saw and understood his calling.
2. Insight & Wisdom - Gideon knew what to do to win the battle.  I have been with leaders who weren't sure what to do.  If your going to effectively lead people you must have the wisdom and insight to do so.  I pray often for God to give me great wisdom, that of Solomon.
3. Charisma - people flock to charisma.  That is one of the reasons so many people fell in love with Obama.  He has plenty of charisma.  People are drawn into leaders with charisma. 
4. Action - To lead, things must be accomplished.  Gideon didn't talk about the battle, he fought the battle.  So many churches and Christians want to talk about reaching people and making a difference for God's Kingdom, but in reality there is no action. Talk is cheap, get off your butts and get into the action.
5. Communication skills - I don't care how good a leader you are, without being able to communicate the vision properly, people won't follow because they are confused.  When I look at churches that god is using and blessing in an awesome way they all have very effective communicators.  People enjoy listening to them and buy into the vision God has laid on their heart.
6. Character - It takes character to win & maintain the trust of your people.  Who wants to follow someone they can't trust.  I know I certainly don't.
7. Credit - great leaders always know where to give credit.  Gideon was all about giving credit the God the Father.

Few random thoughts
* Not watching TV this week has allowed me to get so much more done.  Being honest, watched a movie last night with Deb and Jacob.  The staff told me it had some good clips in it for American Jesus.  They were oh so right. 
* Didn't fish Wednesday night and I'm not fishing any this week.  Concentrating on getting ahead.
* Have a meeting with home group leaders tonight.  Want to see home groups go to a whole new level.
* Really excited about this Sunday.  Doing a couple things to make people really think.
* Lost 5 pounds this week already.  I have been working out harder and eating a lot less. 
* Being honest, my weight is my throne in the flesh.  I have begun asking god for a hatred of food.  I want to eat to live and quit living to eat.  I want more energy, want to set a good example for our church and I want my temple to represent Jesus Christ well.
* Deb continue to mourn, she goes back to work on Monday.
* Prayed a long time this morning.  Overwhelming thought, do we realize just how big of an opportunity we have everyday to serve the King.  Go out and do something radical for Jesus today and everyday!