How Toyota Became #1 By David Magee In the last paragraph of his book, David Magee tells you what Toyota’s answer is to the “What do you do when you reach the top of the mountain?” question. Most pastors want to get there, so read on. How Toyota Became #1 is a fascinating read for the student of “how-to-grow-a-church.” The principles articulated translate immediately to the local church. Early in the book the commitment to kaizen, or the daily and ongoing process of continuous improvement, is described as the centerpiece of the Toyota philosophy. Although written from an entirely business/secular perspective, the concepts Toyota put in place in 1937 to build the #1 car company in the world are remarkably close to those from scripture. Toyota’s values of hard work, humility, and improving quality by exposing the truth are universal principles not applied by many in the world or even the church. For a pastor to consider the Toyota principle of taking time to study, learn, and in our world, pray for the future of the church he/she serves is huge. Then to implement with speed and right timing (Toyota principle) that direction which is received from the Lord is of high value. Like the local church, Toyota knows failure. Their response is to learn. When pastors can think in terms of leading the church they serve by allowing failure to be the teacher, God smiles. I like how the book starts with the need to diligently apply oneself to right pursuits and ends with the admonition to work for the right reasons. Frankly, these are pretty good bookends for leaders of the local church.