An organisation approached a respected leader to mentor some of its leaders. The CEO wrote to those four upcoming leaders to get in touch with the mentor and be mentored for a year. None of the four responded to the email, even after two months. The mentor was angry, saddened and upset. He wrote to the concerned, quoting this verse: “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” (Matthew 7:6)
Lack of stewardship: When God gives resources, opportunities, connections, open doors, talents, gifts, skills, and precious mentors, wise people use them optimally, with great enthusiasm. Such people are like one talented man who buried his assets. (Matthew 25:18)
Lack of diligence: Indeed, diligent people could see opportunities even in chaos, have the capacity to discern, and act swiftly. Laziness is dangerous because a person without wisdom neglects his farm (area of work), and it is overgrown with weeds instead of fruits.
Lack of determination: Good intentions are not just good decisions. Noble preferences are of no value unless it is implemented. Even implementation could have a great start, but may not be complete, and get stuck somewhere in the middle. Without determination to complete, there are millions of incomplete intentions and started projects. (Proverbs 24:30)
Lack of desire to learn: Some people do not have the desire to learn. First, engaging the mind is a difficult task for them. Hence, reading, writing and learning are like climbing a steep hill. Second, they harbour a superiority complex, that they know enough things, and have nothing to learn. Third, they may have an inferiority complex, that they cannot learn anything more. Four, some are satisfied with being able to survive. There is no desire to grow, progress or contribute more.
Lack of obedience: A caring leader, who wishes to develop others, opens doors for them. It is up to the emerging leaders to use that opportunity. Only obedient people would use such opportunities that come their way, provided by shepherding leaders.
Do I optimally use opportunities that God provides?