Be the Lightning Rod

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Stand Strong, Inspire Others, and Lead with Purpose

 


My wife and I follow a simple rule with our kids: No quitting. No matter how tough things get, we finish what we start. Whether it’s sports, school projects, or personal goals, we teach them that perseverance builds character, resilience, and confidence. Life is full of challenges, but pushing through difficult moments often leads to the greatest rewards. This lesson applies as much to leadership as it does to parenting.

Leadership is about perseverance and determination. It means facing adversity and refusing to give up. True leaders break challenges into manageable steps and persist with confidence, showing others that obstacles can be overcome. This mindset is evident in leaders who face adversity head-on, even when the odds are stacked against them. Winston Churchill led Britain through World War II with unwavering determination. Steve Jobs revolutionized technology with Apple despite setbacks. These examples show that true leaders lean in when things get hard and inspire others to follow. They lead by example, demonstrating that challenges are opportunities for growth.

This principle reminds me of a concept from Laurie Beth Jones’ book, Jesus, CEO. Jones describes Jesus as someone who was willing to be God’s lightning rod. He stood firm in His mission, even when faced with criticism, opposition, and sacrifice. His leadership was not about playing it safe; it was about standing tall, visible, and unwavering in His purpose.

Being a “lightning rod” is a powerful example of leadership. Business leaders like Satya Nadella, who transformed Microsoft with empathy and innovation, and Jacinda Ardern, who led New Zealand with compassion and resilience during crises, demonstrate this principle. Today’s leaders often face public scrutiny, social media visibility, and pressure while standing firm in their values. Great leaders attract attention — not for their own glory, but because their actions, integrity, and vision inspire others. 

They absorb pressure and challenges so those they lead can thrive.

As D.L. Moody, one of history’s greatest evangelists, once said, “Before I speak, I just go out to an open place and say, ‘Lord, set me on fire.’ Moody understood that effective leadership requires igniting a passion that others can see and follow. His willingness to be visible, stand out, and face challenges made him influential.

The lesson here is clear. Key steps to apply this mindset include:

  • Break challenges into manageable steps.
  • Stay visible and accessible.
  • Communicate openly with your team.
  • Lead by example, even when it’s tough.
  • Persist with determination despite obstacles.

To apply this mindset daily, break challenges into manageable steps, stay visible and accessible, and communicate openly with your team. Persist with determination even when obstacles arise. Nelson Mandela embodied this principle. He endured years of imprisonment without abandoning his vision for a free South Africa, showing how perseverance and visibility lead to success.

Leaders can’t lead from the shadows. 

Step up in difficult situations, communicate openly, and lead by example — even when it’s tough. Visibility and perseverance build trust and inspire others to follow your lead. Just as a light is meant to be placed on a hill, leaders must step into the spotlight. This doesn’t mean seeking attention for its own sake. Instead, it means having the courage to be seen, take responsibility, and guide others through both good times and bad.

In leadership, quitting is not an option. When we commit to something — whether it’s raising our kids, leading a team, or pursuing a vision — we see it through. This consistency builds trust. People follow leaders who show resilience and determination because it gives them confidence that they, too, can overcome challenges.

So whether you’re leading a family, a business, or a community, remember that perseverance is key. Never quit, and inspire others to do the same. Take heart and know that your perseverance leaves a lasting impact. Applying a no-quit mindset builds character, earns trust, strengthens resilience, and motivates others to push through challenges. 

Be willing to be the lightning rod. 

Stand firm, stay visible, and never quit. In the end, true leadership isn’t just about achieving your goals — it’s about inspiring others to believe they can achieve theirs as well.

Location: Tulsa, OK, USA

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