When we read or hear stories of sacrifice, the stories usually include some terrible loss of life on behalf of another. Somehow it seems to motivate us that one human had the courage to die for another.

In business, we don't hear many stories about one business dying in order to save the life of another existing business. Competition is known to be fierce and brutal. But the depth of sacrifice in leading a business may not seem significant in the moment. The return on investment of sacrifices made in business might only be revealed in the long run. It would seem to be rare that a sacrifice today will lead to increased revenue tomorrow.

There aren't courses in business schools that teach sacrifice as an important tool for young leaders to quickly develop. Students may not even hear the word sacrifice in a class during their college career. 

But we know that leaders are often called upon to "die to self" in leading any team to accomplish a mission. The demands for a leader to make personal sacrifices are always present.

For at least part of this week, I intend to consider what it means to be a sacrificial leader.

Leaders give up something of value to wear the mantle. Consider the sacrifices that you have seen leaders make. What personal sacrifices have you made for the greater good of your team? Comment below if you desire.

It seems certain to me that all leaders sacrifice. The essence of sacrifice appears to be a matter of the heart. David cried from his heart, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart" (Ps. 51:17).

I don't confuse a leader who demonstrates brokenness as one who is weak. It is quite the opposite. Haughty leaders aren't around long.

It's the leader with a contrite heart that enjoys completed missions.

"I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service of worship" (Rom. 12:1).

Dr. Steve Greene is the publisher and executive vice president of the media group at Charisma Media and executive producer of the Charisma Podcast Network. His book, Love Leads: The Spiritual Connection Between Your Relationships and Productivity, is now available.

Leaders, Dr. Greene wants to help you understand the spiritual connection between relationships and productivity. Read his new blog, here.

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