“Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” (Prov. 29:18 KJV)
There’s no gainsaying that John Maxwell is a phenomenal success especially in leadership training, personal development coaching and public speaking. I have had the rare privilege of learning at his feet via onsite trainings, online trainings and resource materials. One common thread that runs through his teachings is his quick acknowledgement of the contributions of people around him in the making of the man he has become. Recently, in an online presentation of his latest book— The Leaders Greatest Return, I saw him become very emotional as he acknowledged some man who believed in his vision —even when the vision had no expression nor form or comeliness.
Vision lacks the provisions for accomplishments without people. And people are doomed without vision. Suffice it to say that vision and people are not mutually exclusive. Both must co-exist, for the fulfillment of destiny.
A vision is conceived by man; processed by man; and preserved by man. The Word of God says, “For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.” (Heb. 3:4 ) God needed man to birth the vision of Eden. Hence the creation of Adam. God needed man to consummate the vision of redemption. Hence, the birth of the Second Adam —Jesus Christ. And there’s nothing God will do without man or people. In His sovereignty, He has designed it so. Hear the prophecy of Ezekiel —“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.” (Ezek. 22:30)
God’s method is men. And nothing can controvert it. There are arguments today suggesting that people may soon be dispensed because of technological advancements like artificial intelligence. While this fact may reduce the need for some non skilled; semi skilled and in certain cases, skilled labor —there will still be need for people to drive the vision. In this knowledge economy, you will still need people who have the knowledge of witty inventions.
“Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts.
A wise man is mightier than a strong man. Wisdom is mightier than strength.” (Prov.24:3-5 TLB)
It is important to state that it is only the right and wise people that you need to accomplish your vision. The wrong people will ruin your vision. Even seemingly great people can become your greatest liability. Eron, Lehman Brothers, AIG and Countrywide are examples of companies that employed some of the smartest people in the world. And to our chagrin, we saw these great visions collapse and some close to it. I love what Success Coach, Publisher and Author, Darren Hardy said, “The right people focused on the wrong priorities can turn the dream into a nightmare. Just ask Eron.”
Therefore, you must prayerful ask God for a discerning heart to identify the wise team of people to drive the vision with you. Jesus had to pray all night to select the 12 apostles. You need to pray more, connect and effectively communicate the vision and culture to your people. King David was one leader that connected and communicated his vision to his mighty men — and they in turn made his vision grander and perpetual with utmost dedication and fiercest loyalty.
To wise people,
✝️Tochukwu Kemakolam
Prime Minister