These past two weeks have been busy, really busy.  I was teaching two intensive courses and I’ve only run once in the past two weeks and my memory work is way behind – but I had a great time!  I had the opportunity to be with leaders in Germany and then back in the U.S. discussing how we can take our leadership to the next level.  It’s great to be with high capacity leaders who are hungry to learn and grow in their ability.  I find it not only refreshing to my spirit but an opportunity to receive as much as I give.  Solomon said it well, "Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" (Proverbs 27:17).

When’s the last time you’ve had an opportunity to be sharpened?  As leaders we are often giving and taking care of others not realizing that one of the most significant leadership responsibilities is leading ones’ self.  I want to encourage you to take some time to evaluate where you are and make time to re-create.  We owe it to those we serve that we lead out of strength.  Solomon also said, “If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge, then he must exert more strength. Wisdom has the advantage of giving success” (Ecclesiastes10:10).  What are you doing to sharpen your axe?