To graduates: Remember that everything rises and falls on leadership

Across our nation high school and collegiate men and women are preparing to graduate. To move into the "real world" (which, being out of college for a little more than a decade, I'm still not sure what that means). Congratulations on your accomplishment. As you prepare to set out on your paths of wealth, fortune, fame and success — which as a fairly young dog I have learned are not all passengers on the same bus — allow me to share with you some ancient words with relevant meaning.

Proverbs 11:14 reads "Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers."

Everything rises and falls on leadership. Nations rise and fall based on their leadership. Corporations, schools, marriages, families and personal lives rise and fall on leadership.

Raw leadership is not a title or position. Leaders are those who are able to navigate a course, sometimes when the course is uncharted, through a complicated set of circumstances for the purpose of showing others how to get there. A leader is one who recognizes the relationship and influence they have with others and is able to move them toward success. If no one is following, then you are not leading. We need leaders.

To grow wise as a leader is the qualifier of this ancient bit of wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to consistently make sound decisions. Wisdom begins with an understanding that life does not begin with self but wholly amazement in the Lord. The personal core value of fearing the Lord paves the path to make consistent, confident and wise decisions.

Collect many advisers. I recently attended a luncheon to watch a recorded interview with one of our nation's best, well-published business analyzers and leaders. There were many striking conversation points but one candid response rose above other great pieces of insight. Early on in a highly successful career, this leader received one piece of advice that had the most effect on his ability not just as a leader but also as a human being: Form a personal board of directors.

The writer of these ancient words understood the priority of surrounding yourself with trustworthy advisers. Men and women who will speak into your life even those things you do not like to hear. Security can be found in mulling over complicated decisions with others who will challenge your thinking.

Some ancient words to polish your future.

Rob Hurtgen is a husband, father and serves as the associate pastor at the First Baptist Church in Jackson.