Vision Over Comfort: Why Leaders Can’t Settle for the Status Quo
We live in a world where it's easy to get comfortable. Easy to stay in the routine. Easy to accept "the way things are"—whether it’s in our families, our jobs, our churches, or even our walk with Christ.
But what if God is calling us to more?
The Mess We’re In
John Maxwell, in his book Developing the Leaders Around You, points out that the term “status quo” literally means the mess we’re in.
That got my attention.
The truth is, most people are content with the status quo. But leaders—true, godly leaders—aren’t. They see not only what is, but what could be.
Maxwell says,
“Leaders see what is, but they also have a vision for what could be. They are never content with things as they are.”
Are You Content?
Let me ask you: Are you content with where things are?
In your relationships?
In your school or your work?
In your spiritual life?
Sometimes, being discontent isn’t a bad thing. In fact, holy dissatisfaction can stir something powerful inside us. It can move us to act, to grow, and to lead.
Risk and Growth Go Together
Here’s the hard truth: Growth requires risk.
It’s scary to step out in faith. Scary to change direction. Scary to try something new—especially when we don’t know what the outcome will be.
But if we never risk, we never grow.
And if leaders stop taking risks, they stop leading.
Not Everyone Leads, but Everyone Follows Something
God doesn’t call everyone to be in charge, but He does call us all to move with purpose. The church, like any team or family, needs both strong leaders and faithful followers. And both must share a common vision.
The Apostle Paul understood this. His goal wasn’t fame or influence—it was to become more like Jesus. That’s why he could confidently say:
“Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1
That’s not arrogance—that’s conviction. Paul’s life matched his words. He led by example.
So, What About You?
Are you leading by example?
Are you living a life worth following?
Or are you waiting—afraid of the risk, unsure of the outcome?
Maybe today is the day to take that step.
Not a leap into something reckless—but a faithful step toward the vision God’s placed in your heart. Whether that’s in your home, your workplace, your school, your team, or here at church—lead where you are.
Stop settling for “the way things are.”
Step into what could be.
Your Turn
Ask the Lord this week:
Where am I too comfortable?
Where are You calling me to lead?
What risk do I need to take in faith?
Then take one step. Just one.
We’re in this together—growing, following Jesus, and becoming more like Him day by day.
– Pastor Eric Drake
