Leading with influence can be challenging to say the least. Influence is not something that is automatic. It takes time to earn influence and develop this important aspect of leadership. Join us as we explore this subject below.
Season 3, Episode 58 of Entrusted to Lead
Leading with Influence: Influence is a Sacred Trust
Leadership is more than just a title or a position—it’s about influence. Luke 12:48 reminds us, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” Influence isn’t something we own; it’s something we steward. Whether you lead a small team or a large organization, your impact extends far beyond the tasks you oversee.
So the question is: How are you stewarding your influence?
In this blog, we’ll unpack what it means to lead with influence instead of authority, drawing wisdom from biblical principles and leadership experts like Ken Blanchard, Liz Wiseman, and J. Oswald Sanders.
Authority vs. Influence: What’s the Difference?
A title may grant you authority, but it doesn’t automatically give you influence. Authority is given; influence is earned. True leadership is built on trust, credibility, and consistency, not just a position of power.
Joseph: A Biblical Model of Influence
Joseph’s story in Genesis 41 is a powerful example of how influence is cultivated over time. He didn’t seek power—he was betrayed, enslaved, and falsely accused. Yet, through his faithfulness and integrity, he gained influence, eventually leading Egypt through a crisis.
Joseph’s leadership reminds us that character precedes influence. He didn’t demand authority—he demonstrated wisdom and trustworthiness, and people followed him because of it.
Three Leadership Principles for Lasting Influence
1. Serve First, Lead Second
The greatest leaders serve first. Jesus himself set this example in Mark 10:45:
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.”
J. Oswald Sanders, in Spiritual Leadership, emphasizes that true leadership requires humility and self-sacrifice. The best leaders see their role as a responsibility to uplift others, not a means to personal power.
Reflection Question:
How can you prioritize serving your team instead of seeking control?
Action Step: Identify one way you can serve someone on your team this week—without expecting anything in return.
2. Empower, Don’t Micromanage
One of the biggest leadership challenges today is micromanagement. Liz Wiseman, in Multipliers, explains that the best leaders develop others rather than hoard power.
A leader’s role is to empower their team by trusting them and giving them opportunities to grow. Micromanagement may feel like control, but it actually stifles innovation and limits potential.
Key Question: Are you empowering your team or micromanaging them?
Action Step: Take a step back and assess your leadership approach. Are you giving your team the space they need to succeed?
3. Execute with Excellence
Larry Bossidy, author of Execution, warns that vision without disciplined execution is wasted effort. Influence is built when leaders follow through on their commitments and set the example for excellence.
Reflection Questions:
Does your daily leadership reflect your core mission?
Are you consistent in delivering on what you promise?
Action Step: Write down your leadership mission in one sentence. Then ask yourself: Does my daily influence align with this mission?
Three Ways to Grow Your Influence
1. Clarify Your Leadership Mission – Leaders who align their decisions with a clear mission have a lasting impact. (Robert Kaplan, The Balanced Scorecard)
2. Build Trust – People don’t follow titles; they follow trust. Leadership is about relationships, not just results.
3. Develop Others – The best leaders don’t just achieve personal success; they help others rise with them.
Challenge: Identify one person you can mentor this month. Leadership is not just about where you’re going—it’s about who you’re bringing with you.
Faith & Leadership: Bringing Your Whole Self to the Table
Many leaders struggle to integrate their faith into their work. They compartmentalize their lives—faith in one box, leadership in another. But leadership is holistic. You bring all of yourself into every space you enter.
What is your ultimate goal as a leader?
How is your faith shaping your influence?
The best leaders understand that leadership is not about status—it’s about service. Influence isn’t just a tool for personal success; it’s a responsibility entrusted to us by God.
What’s Your Biggest Leadership Challenge?
I’d love to hear from you! DM me, leave a comment, or connect through the Entrusted to Lead newsletter. Let’s continue this conversation and grow together as faith-driven leaders.
Remember: Keep showing up every single day—because your leadership matters.
More Resources
Check out more articles to help you lead with influence and much more! Also, please listen to my podcast and my guest appearances, all on my podcast page. Please see below.