As leaders, one will inevitably have to discipline or correct a team member. It might be a family member, a coworker, or even an external resource. But why we do it is an important question that leads to how we do it. If you do not show concern and compassion for the member, then we just might harm the situation instead of helping it. When we must correct, our focus is to continue to deliver value. It might be that our adjustments and corrections are best served by dealing directly with the source of the problem. How often do we work around the edges of the issue instead of facing them head on? That is not likely to enhance our value. That would be like shaking ice cream sprinkles on the counter and expecting the taste of the ice cream to be enhanced. Where might you be shaking the sprinkles in the wrong place? Perhaps the focus begins with the ice cream which is the item to be enhanced. As a leader we are enhancing value somewhere. Maybe it can be on the sprinkles laying all over the place. Maybe it should be on the sprinkle container. What is the first thing you can do to get the focus on the most important value for your team this week?

As followers of Christ, we have so many great examples and stories that Jesus shared with us. Many of them were of Christ pointing right into people's own hearts for their pain and suffering. There was no work around, no sprinkles on the counter, as he went straight to the issue. We read, “Never slander a worker to the employer, or the person will curse you, and you will pay for it.” Proverbs 30:10 NLT. Are we in relationship with Jesus first or our world first? I believe Jesus has taught us to choose him first. We can work directly with one another to show our love and respect for one another. A problem is generally with a person, not a supervisor. If you have a problem with Christ, he is waiting for you with nothing in the way. We do not need some work around to go to him. Where are we distracted and giving our attention to the wrong place? When we need love the focus needs to change to love. Will we allow hunger, blame, or pain to get in the way? When we do that, it is like grabbing the sprinkles container and just shaking it all over the floor. Where are you missing the ice cream bowl? The sweet love of Jesus is worth us taking the time to focus. What is the first thing you can do about it in the next seven days?

Let us pray, Heavenly Father, guide us as we prepare to rest. May we find you by the shortest route possible. Help us to show compassion and love people with a right mind and in the right action. Guide our hearts today to focus on the love that Jesus has for us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen,