John Maxwell once said, *”If you think you’re leading and no one is following you, then you’re just taking a walk.”* It’s a humorous picture — but also a powerful reminder, especially for parents.
There are times in every home when it feels like we are leading well: when our children are engaged, participating, catching the vision we have cast. And there are other times when, if we are honest, we’re just issuing orders, delivering lectures, or pulling everyone along behind us with resistance.
The best kind of leadership in our homes looks a lot more like inviting and inspiring than commanding and demanding. We are called to be leaders, teachers, developers, and coaches for our children — not just bosses or dictators. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to *“train up a child in the way he should go,”* and good training always involves clear instruction, sincere encouragement, and patient modeling.
This week, take a moment to reflect: When have you truly led your family — and seen them follow with willing hearts? What made those moments different from the times you were “just taking a walk” What would it look like to invite your children into more moments like that?
“The righteous who walks in his integrity— blessed are his children after him!” (Proverbs 20:7).