Monday July 6, 2026 “Leadership IS Influence” By Kevin Burrell “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 Baseball Coaches and Scouts The late Steve Jobs once said: “If you want to make everyone happy, don’t be a leader, go sell ice cream.” John C. Maxwell said: “He who thinks he leads, but has no followers, is only taking a walk.” If you can’t influence others, they won’t follow you. Yes! — Leadership IS Influence One such person who models this principle is Chicago White Sox Director of Player Development, Gene Watson. Gene is one of baseball’s most respected talent evaluators, bringing more than three decades of experience in professional scouting and player evaluation. He currently serves as one of our a front office executives in the Chicago White Sox organization. However, what makes Gene special is not what his résumé says, it’s who he is as a person. In 2018, Gene received the Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation’s Legends in Scouting Award, an honor presented to scouts who demonstrate exceptional dedication, character, integrity and excellence in the profession. More than that, Gene is a leader. Not just any leader—a leader with the right heart that displays influence. Leadership is far more than skills or strategies. At its core, leadership is about the “condition of the heart.” It’s about influence. What fills your heart ultimately shapes your motives, your values, your decisions, and the lasting influence you have on those you lead. True leadership is never about title or position—it is about serving others with integrity, humility, and care. Those qualities define Gene Watson. God has always looked at the heart. When Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel, the Lord reminded him: “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” John C. Maxwell famously said: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Yet that path must first be guided by a pure, surrendered heart. When your heart is connected to God, you will lead with authenticity, courage, wisdom and compassion. God is not looking for the “perfect” leader, they don’t exist, however He is looking for a leader who is consistent, a leader with influence, a leader after His own heart. Listen Closely: Here are three qualities of a “Heart Centered Leader.” Don’t miss these. • Integrity is Central Leadership without integrity will eventually crumble. A leader’s heart must be truthful and consistent—reflecting Christ-like character both in public and in private. What you are when no one is watching determines the trust people will place in you. • Humility Over Pride A humble heart chooses service over domination. Many leaders lack this quality. Jesus gave us the ultimate example when He washed His disciples’ feet. True greatness in God’s kingdom is found in lowering yourself to lift others. Pride builds walls; humility builds bridges. Influential leadership is not allowing your position or title to dominate those you’re leading. If you have to tell people you’re a leader, you’re not one. • Compassion Not Ambition Compassionate leaders put people before personal ambition. They’re accessible. They’re approachable. They value relationships. They lead with empathy. They listen with care. They serve their staff or team before themselves. Because at the end of the day: People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care. Allow God to reveal any areas in your leadership that need realignment. As you surrender your heart to Him, He will shape you into the leader He has called you to be—one who leads not just with skill, but with a heart that honors Him. Because… Leadership IS Influence! Just Ask Gene. Love God. Love People. Live Sent. Be Worth Being, Kevin