I wrote an article for LifeWay Young Adults in November 2016 after taking a short writing hiatus. I was excited to be writing again and thankful to LifeWay for publishing me. Since then, I’ve been writing a ton! This article marked another beginning for me; after it, I started this blog!
With graduations wrapping up for this year, I thought now would be an appropriate time to re-post this little jewel. Some of the details have changed, like the fact that I’m not teaching ninth grade English anymore. But the principle of this post still holds true. You’re a role model, and you don’t even know it. Even if you’re the one going off to college, someone is looking up to you. That person can’t tell you that you’re their role model because they probably don’t even know it themselves. But they’re taking in what you do, what you say, and who you really—and then they’re mirroring what they see. Think about it, and read my post:
I teach ninth grade English, and I am often reminded that my students watch what I’m saying and doing constantly—probably even more so when I am not teaching a lesson about grammar or literature. Recently, a student who is now a sophomore told me that her love for her favorite music artist started in my class. I play music while my students write their essays, so they are subject to the music I wish to listen to. Come to find out, my student had not heard of this particular music artist before being in my class.
Interestingly enough, the day after I started working on this post, I was chatting with a teacher and a former student in the hallway between classes, and somehow the topic of spending money on things we enjoy came up. I mentioned nice dinners, and my student finished my list for me, naming cupcakes with orange frosting. (I’m a sweet-eater and a Tennessee V-O-L-S fan.) My teacher friend looked at me and said, “Look how observant our students are!” I teach English, but this conversation reminded me that my students are learning more than that—for better or for worse. (I sure hope it’s for the better!)
Leaders don’t often ask—and sometimes don’t even want—to be role models. But, like it or not, this responsibility comes with any leadership position. Take for example NFL football players. These guys aspire to play the game on a national level, but fans of all ages watch their sportsmanlike conduct on and off the field. Moms and dads have kids and build a family, but kids closely observe their parents each day—even when the parents are unaware their kids are doing so. Financial analysts crunch numbers in a cubicle, but their coworkers notice the choices they make at office get-togethers. Church leaders teach weekly Bible lessons, but their students also listen to their words, see their actions, and—you guessed it—read their social media posts, too. No matter the leadership role you may find yourself in, it’s important to recognize the not-so-obvious effect you may have on those that you lead.
I also believe some of the best leaders are those that do not demand attention or are not in prominent leadership roles. Though your job or volunteer opportunity may not be labeled with a leadership tag, you may have more influence than you know. Paul said in Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” In what we say and what we do, we are to glorify God. Talk about a responsibility! So in any capacity, by being mindful that our words and actions should point to God, we can always work to become the role models we want to be.
You may be surprised to realize just how much of a role model position you’re in, but being in any kind of leadership role provides a great opportunity! In Matthew 5:15 Jesus said to be like a lamp on a stand that gives light to everyone in the house. In verse 16 he continued, saying, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Positive attitudes are infectious. High energy is contagious. And genuine compassion is palpable.
Bob Russell, a minister of Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, wrote in a blog post a few years go, “We desperately need positive, courageous role models.” How true! Sometimes we falter and mess up, but God is the ultimate redeemer who gives us the courage to press on. Most importantly, be encouraged that you have been given the role of model. And let us be thankful for the one who modeled for us.
“To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” 1 Peter 2:21
Beautiful considering I just had my youngest of two girls graduation on the date of your blog. It’s funny one of the speakers speech was similar in your article. I thought the students did a wonderful job, explaining whatever you choose to move forward in. To do it for a purpose towards humanity, be not a doctor for money or school teacher because, they have summer s off. But, be a part of the bigger picture. Be a doctor cause u have the talent and ability to save lives. Be the teacher to help shape growing futures. Be the role model that you yourself inspired from. I just hope out of that speech a few took the words to heart. I know I did.
I’m so glad to hear all of this! It sounds like that message in that speech was a good one for all to hear and remember. Thank you for sharing that!