When I was younger, we only had a few TV channels and two major newspapers. The news was presented by simply stating the facts, with very little analysis of the whys and wherefores. Somewhere down the line, however, that changed. The daily news has been replaced by people’s opinions of the daily news. Reporters seem more interested in getting reactions to what happened rather than reporting the facts themselves.
In addition to television, radio, and print media, social media platforms are replete with talking heads, influencers, podcasts, memes, and reels that offer endless perspectives and analyses of the latest issue or story. With the prevalence of smartphones and tablets, it is even easier for people to share their opinions and perspectives on events. When their opinions gain traction on social media, they are hailed as “influencers” and become shepherds of sorts.
In short, opinions and feelings have replaced facts and logic. It appears that many of the sheep are attempting to become shepherds. But the question becomes—is this shepherd credible? And even those who become shepherds through more traditional means—are they credible? How do we know?
Here are some hallmarks of credible shepherds or leaders, those whom one should allow to be the real “influencers” in their life:
- They are rooted in tradition, history, and science. In other words, they point to others as the source of their wisdom or inspiration. Their words and opinions have organically grown out of a long line of truth.
- They use logic and examples to support their argument or position.
- Instead of pointing out the faults or failings of others in order to bolster their credibility, their position stands on its own merits and values.
- They are constantly learning new things to improve their leadership skills. They don’t merely rest on their past laurels.
- When they make a mistake, they willingly admit it and seek to correct it.
- They do not deliberately confuse others; instead, they try to explain their position in a way that everyone can understand.
- They take clear positions and aren’t wishy-washy. They say “yes” when they mean “yes” and “no” when they mean “no.”
- A credible shepherd ultimately wants their sheep to excel in what they do. A credible leader hopes to be outdone by their sheep.
As we continue our Summer sojourn, ask the ultimate influencer, Jesus Christ, to help you discern who the credible shepherds in your life are. If you’re looking for some Summer reading, check out Jesus, CEO: Using Ancient Wisdom for Visionary Leadership by Laurie Beth Jones.
