Brian and Sonya Dodd with Kay Arthur
Precept Partners Weekend
This past weekend I had the pleasure of being part of Partners Weekend at Precept. If you are not familiar with this organization, you should be. Since 1970, they have been equipping small group Bible Study Leaders who can help others discover the truth of Scripture for themselves. Founded by Jack and Kay Arther, their ministry has impacted my family’s lives in an immeasurable way. I have also been privileged to financially invest in this ministry for over 20 years.
Kay is an absolute GIANT in Christian leadership. The approximately 100 of us in attendance were honored to have the privilege of spending time with her once again.
Now 88 years old and suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, Kay does not speak as often as she used to. But when she does, it carries great impact. As part of the weekend’s agenda, the Precept team discussed some of their future plans. Kay then used her significant influence to build support and create momentum for those initiatives.
Through her actions, Kay gave a master class for leaders on how leaders can best leverage their influence. Whether you lead a church, non-profit, business, or athletic organization, you can learn a lot from her actions this past weekend.
The following are 5 Signs You Are The Most Influential Person In The Room
When You Speak People Listen
EF Hutton, the private banking company, had a famous series of commercials where someone would say, “My broker is EF Hutton and EF Hutton says…” It was at this moment when everyone, usually in a very loud and crowded environment, would stop what they were doing and listen intently. The company’s tagline was “When EF Hutton speaks, everyone listens.” Kay Arthur was the EF Hutton in the room.
There was a lengthy and very thorough presentation by Precept’s marketing team. Everyone was quite impressed but then Kay spoke. She said, “This is what I’ve been praying for.” At that point, everyone nodded and wholeheartedly embraced what was said.
When Your Few Words Make A Big Impact
To follow up on the previous point, all Kay needed was seven words to bring consensus. No long speeches were needed. No surveys were conducted. No polls were taken. All that was needed was Kay’s approval. That’s influence. The greatest leaders understand an economy of language and learn to steward their words well.
When You Have Made Greatest Investments Into The People In The Room
For over 50 years, Kay Arthur has been conducting print, video, and in-person Bible studies. She has taught countless people how to study the Bible for themselves, including everyone in attendance. Many of those in the room have been taught for three and four decades.
When You Love The People The Most
Influence at its highest level is manifested by love. Because of Kay’s love for those in attendance, there was a tremendous amount of love reciprocated. In fact, the final words of the weekend were Kay preciously telling the audience, “I love you.”
In addition, there were significant financial resources contributed to the ministry. We are partners after all! Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (ESV). The people’s heart was with Kay, Precept, and God’s Word.
When Your Character Has Earned You Influence
As I mentioned, Kay has been part of the leadership of Precept for over 50 years but it was never about her. It was about God’s Word and teaching people how to learn the Bible for themselves. During a time when so many leaders are not finishing well and being disqualified, she is sprinting through the finish line. I have never met anyone who loves Jesus or His Word more than Kay Arthur. As a result, she has influence with God and man.
Do people listen to you? Do your words matter? Have you made a great investment in the lives of others? Do you love them? And do you have impeccable character? If so, you have a chance to be the most influential person in the room.
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