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Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-17-leading-without-praise/

What if the most powerful form of leadership is the kind that goes unnoticed? When exploring "Leading Without Praise" from the Built for Greatness, Built for God movement, we discovered a profound leadership model where the highest form of influence works almost invisibly.
The text presents a compelling image: "when the king of kings speaks, the people do not know he is among them." This ideal leader operates with such seamless integration that their guidance enables others to succeed while feeling a sense of ownership in the achievement. "Amazing, we did it naturally," people say—perhaps the ultimate testament to effective leadership.
We explore a fascinating hierarchy of leadership styles, from this "invisible servant" ideal down to those who lead through love and recognition, fear and intimidation, or incompetence. The MAP framework (Mindset, Aim, Practice) provides practical guidance for developing these leadership qualities through internal dispositions, intentional aims, and consistent actions.
What elevates this exploration beyond just Christian leadership principles is discovering how these same core values—servant leadership, ethical integrity, courage over fear, competence with responsibility, and calm patience—appear consistently across diverse faith traditions including Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, and Sikhism. This universal resonance suggests these principles tap into fundamental truths about human influence rather than being confined to any single belief system.
For anyone seeking to enhance their leadership capacity in any context, these principles offer a compelling alternative to leadership models focused on visibility and acclaim. Consider how stepping out of the spotlight might actually amplify your impact and create more sustainable, meaningful change in your relationships, organizations, and communities.

Chapter 17: Leading Without Praise

When the King of Kings speaks a
The people do not know He is among them

The next best alternative is a recognized leader whom people praise and love b

The next is an intimidating leader whom people fear c

The worst is an incompetent leader whom people despise d
They have no faith
Have no faith in them

The Master proceeds calmly a

He fulfills His promise and settles matters e
Then the people say, “Amazing, we did it naturally!”

a John 10:25-39; John 1:10-14; b John 12:12-13; John 8:54-56; c Matthew 23:1-8; d John 9:39-41; e John 19:28-30.

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