The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham

In today’s world, it’s very easy to
get sucked into the allure of images
from the world of entertainment that
would have stunned Eisenhower. And
for many today, lying and exaggerating
are considered acceptable tools.
Others are only too ready to dodge
financial accountability. Every leader
faces situations that can lead to per-
sonal benefit: payments “on the side,” manipulation of customers
to maximize receipts, taking organizational resources for personal
use, expanding personal perks. Conflicts of interest usually begin
small and seem justified. Once started, the practice of feathering
our own nests escalates. It’s easy to rationalize!
To exert moral leadership as Ike admonished may be more dif-
ficult than ever. Yet it is no less essential.

Set Your Eyes on the Larger Prize
We all know that concentrating on overcoming a temptation
often has the ironic effect of making it stronger. In contrast, focus-
ing on something powerful and positive empowers mind and
emotions to embrace the desired alternative. It enables the will to
succeed.
Billy Graham had not only a laser focus on his mission, he was
caught up in the wonder and awe of God’s creation and his part
in reaching out to others with his love. Don’t pity poor Billy sit-
ting in his hotel room without lively and graphic entertainment.
He not only met there with colleagues and prepared for the next
day’s appearances, he was deeply cognizant
of the vast opportunities and possibilities
before him—as they are for many of us. He
repeatedly spoke to his teammates about
“having so much to do, so many books to write, so many invita-
tions from all over the globe.” He often expressed amazement at
what had already happened and what he believed God was con-
tinuing to do through him and the team.

The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham

When we are trying to decide

whether a leader is a good

leader or a bad one, the

question to ask is: “Is he with

the Ten Commandments or is

he against them?” Then you

can determine if the leader is a

true messiah or another Stalin.

ISAAC BASHEVIS SINGER

A good conscience is a

continual Christmas.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN