Over the last several weeks, I have been convinced of a sobering reality that, if I allow it to have the impact on me that it should, I am confident will improve my ability to love and lead more effectively.

The sobering reality is this:

Most people have a smile on their face that is not an accurate reflection of the heaviness of their heart.

The pressure at work is heavier.
The challenge of parenting is harder.
The difficulty in marriage is higher.

Love and lead with this in mind.

The pain from the past is deeper.
The confusion about the present is stronger.
The fear about the future is greater.

Love and lead with this in mind.

The lies of self-doubt are louder.
The voice of God is quieter.
The ability to see truth is cloudier.

Love and lead with this in mind.

The journey through life that most people are traveling has way more struggles and difficulties than they ever imagined having to face.

They are more tired. They are more weary. They are more discouraged. They are more frustrated. They are more hopeless. They are more confused. They are more "over it." - than they have led you to believe.

Don't allow the facade to fool you. The level of brokenness that exists in the people that we interact with day in and day out is much more real than we think.

Love and lead with this in mind.

It may make all the difference in regards to whether or not your love and leadership in their life can make a difference.