I would like to quote today from author Dan Allender in Leading with a Limp:

"God does call every one of us to lead.  Again, a leader is anyone who is moved to influence others to engage a problem or an opportunity for good."

And perhaps my favorite quote from Allender:

"Leadership is a walk on the wild side . . . moving toward a goal while confronting significant obstacles with limited resources in the midst of uncertainly and with people who may or may not come through in a pinch.  Leadership is about whether we will grow in maturity in the extremity of crisis."

I especially like the last part of that last line: "grow in maturity in the extremity of crisis."  Leadership is really a strange art.  Whereas most people in the midst of crisis shrink from it, complain about it, or wish it away, leaders use it to come alive.  Conflict, crisis, confusion and uncertainly bring a leader to life.  Challenge presents an opportunity for change, not pain.  That is why so many of history's best known stories of leadership come from times of grave crisis.  Difficult times reveal people for who they really are.  When others cower, leaders stand tall.  When others shrink, leaders rise to the challenge. 

Understand: the world is full of fakers and posers.  Anyone can beat their chest and say tough words.  But watch who performs when the guns start firing and the ammunition is real, and you'll have your leader.

Use the crises in your life as agents for change and growth, and pray that God will strengthen you to utilize your gifts mightily.  One of life's biggest regrets is to look back over it and wish it would have counted for something.  Don't let that happen.  Take a walk on the wild side!  Lead!  Right where you are with what you've got!