Every leader reaches a moment when the next step ahead feels weightier than a job title or a career change.
Years ago, I sat in a conference room watching a colleague wrestle with a decision that could reshape his entire professional trajectory. He wasn’t just deciding whether to accept a promotion—he was choosing a direction for his life.
That kind of crossroads is exactly where another leader once stood.
The Gospels describe him as a rich young ruler—a man of influence, authority, and status in his community. He wasn’t simply wealthy; he was a leader known for wisdom, discipline, and devotion. And when he approached Jesus, he wasn’t trying to score philosophical points. He was sincerely seeking eternal life.
Then Jesus looked at him—Mark says He loved him—and offered a life-altering invitation:
“Follow Me.” (Mark 10:21)
What many readers overlook is that Jesus used the exact same Greek command here as when calling Peter, Andrew, James, John, and Matthew. This rich young leader received the very same invitation the disciples received.
And what he did next has everything to say to leaders today.
Follow Me — The Same Invitation Given to Every Leader
When Jesus told the ruler, “Follow Me,” the Greek phrase akolouthei moi was not a mild suggestion or a spiritual encouragement. It was a discipleship command—the same one Jesus gave to fishermen and tax collectors who would become world-changers.
This means the rich young ruler wasn’t being offered a second-tier spiritual life.
He was being invited to join the same transformational journey that Christ offered His inner circle.
For today’s Christian business leaders, this truth is both humbling and empowering. Jesus extends the same call into your boardroom, your team dynamics, and your daily responsibilities. Leadership isn’t merely a position you hold—it’s a place where Jesus calls you to walk with Him, learn from Him, and reflect Him.
Leadership Means Letting Go—And Trusting Jesus With What’s Next
The ruler’s struggle wasn’t really about money. Scripture never condemns his wealth. His struggle was attachment—his identity and security were wrapped around what he owned.
Every leader knows this tension well.
We hold tightly to:
- Success we’ve built
- Comfort we’ve earned
- Reputation we’ve protected
- Control we’re reluctant to surrender
When Jesus calls a leader to follow Him more fully, He often touches the very thing we grip the hardest. Not to harm us—but to free us.
The tragedy is that the ruler walked away, grieved. He wanted both full discipleship and complete control. Jesus knew that combination wasn’t possible.
So the question for every leader becomes:
What am I holding that keeps me from saying yes to Christ’s call?
Jesus Calls Leaders with Both Challenge and Love
Before Jesus challenged the ruler, Mark adds a detail that leaders should never forget:
“Jesus looked at him and loved him.” (Mark 10:21)
The call to “Follow Me” wasn’t a reprimand.
It wasn’t a test.
It wasn’t a trap.
It was love.
It was vision.
It was invitation.
Jesus saw who the young leader was—and who he could become. His challenge came from a deep desire to bring that leader into a life of purpose, freedom, and kingdom impact.
And He sees the same potential in you.
Conclusion: Don’t Walk Away from Your Moment
The young ruler left sorrowful, not because Jesus rejected him, but because he couldn’t loosen his grip on the lesser things he loved. His leadership potential was extraordinary. His opportunity was unprecedented. But fear held him back.
Leaders today stand in that same place.
Every day, Jesus extends the same invitation He gave to the disciples and to the rich young ruler:
“Follow Me.”
Not into comfort.
Not into predictability.
But into a life led by His love, guided by His wisdom, and shaped by His presence.
My prayer is that when your moment comes, you won’t walk away sad.
You’ll step forward—courageously, faithfully, and joyfully—following the One who calls you by name.
Action Steps for Leaders
These practical steps will help you respond to Jesus’ call in everyday leadership.
- Identify your “tight grip” areas.
Ask God to show you what comforts, habits, or securities keep you from fully responding to His call. - Invite Jesus into one leadership decision this week.
Before responding to a major issue or opportunity, pause and ask, “What does following You look like here?” - Practice surrender in a small but intentional way.
Choose one act of obedience that stretches your trust—large or small. - Begin your day with a follower’s prayer.
Say, “Jesus, I want to follow You in my leadership today. Lead me.” - Share a leadership moment where Jesus guided you.
Encourage at least one colleague or friend by telling them how Christ led you during a tough decision.
Discussion Questions
Use these for personal reflection, leadership groups, or team devotionals.
- Why does it matter that the rich young ruler was a leader—and how does that change the way you read the story?
- What stands out to you about Jesus using the same “Follow Me” command He used with the disciples?
- Which of your leadership attachments is hardest to release to Christ?
- Where do you sense Jesus calling you to follow Him more closely in your workplace?
- What is one step of faith or obedience you can take this week in response to Jesus’ invitation?
More Articles
I have written several articles on the character of a leader. You can find them by typing “Character” in the search bar. Meanwhile, here are a few of the most recent articles.
- #668: 7 Reasons Why Christian Leaders Fail and How You Can Stand Firm
- #659: 5 Lessons from Ishmael: A Warning Against Ambition Without God
- #644: What Happens to Leaders After Their Wilderness Journey?
- #643: Why Strong Leaders Need Their Wilderness Journey: A Spiritual Guide
- #640: The Danger of Expediency in Leadership: Lessons from Ruth
Join the Conversation
As always, we welcome questions and comments. Is there a “tight grip” area of your life that you are reluctant to let go of and let Christ?
I’d love your help. This blog is primarily read because people like you share it with friends. Your support has been invaluable, and I encourage you to continue sharing it by pressing the share button. Let’s spread the message of faith-based leadership together!
Category: Personal Development | Character
At this point in life, the only ones I’m leading are an aging dog and two cats. But how I show up in the world, and how I treat others, is a kind of leadership. And to that end, may His love guide me.