How Great Leaders Set (and Stick to) Priorities

David Campbell Jr.
Nov 13
2 min read

How Great Leaders Set (and Stick to) Priorities

Bible Passage:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”— Matthew 6:33 (ESV)

Story: The Builder’s Blueprint

A young builder once set out to construct his first home. He was eager, full of ideas, and passionate about every detail—from the roof design to the garden layout. Yet as he began, he constantly changed his plans, adding new features and chasing the latest trends. The project stretched on for years, draining his time and money. Finally, an older builder visited and said, “Son, you forgot the first rule—build from the blueprint, not from emotion.”

The young builder paused. He realized that in his excitement, he had lost sight of the plan. In the same way, leaders often start with vision but lose focus when distractions multiply. True leadership requires not just vision—but disciplined priority.

Quote:

“The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”— Stephen Covey

The Leadership Principle

In ministry and life, not everything can be important at once. Even Jesus modeled intentional focus—He didn’t heal every person, visit every village, or respond to every demand. Instead, He moved according to the Father’s will, saying, “I only do what I see the Father doing” (John 5:19).

Great leaders understand this truth: priorities are spiritual decisions.They flow from God’s direction, not from pressure or opportunity.

When we let our calendars lead us instead of our calling, we drift into busyness without fruitfulness. Setting priorities requires us to regularly return to the “blueprint” God has given us—His Word, His purpose, and His timing.

Action Steps

Pray for Clarity: Ask God to reveal what truly matters in this season of your leadership and life.
Define the Top Three: Write down the three most important priorities for this month that align with God’s calling.
Create Boundaries: Say “no” to good things so you can say “yes” to the best things.
Review Weekly: End each week by asking, “Did my actions match my priorities?”
Stay Accountable: Share your priorities with a trusted mentor or team member who can help you stay focused.

3 Personal Reflection Questions

What are the top distractions that tend to pull me away from my God-given priorities?
How can I better align my daily schedule with what I say matters most?
Who in my life can help me stay focused and grounded in my calling?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,Thank You for being the source of wisdom and direction. Help me to seek first Your kingdom in all I do. Teach me to set priorities that honor You, to walk in discipline and focus, and to resist the pull of distractions. May my leadership be marked by purpose, clarity, and obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.