LeadTip #16 True leadership

“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;” Romans 12:10-11 KJV

What does it really mean to be a leader? If people are led off a cliff or into a disastrous situation does that make the head person a leader? Was Hitler a leader or just a maniac bold enough to convince others to follow.

God does not consider every person of influence a leader just because he or she may be gifted with talents and abilities attractive to others. God honors only those who uphold the character traits of true godly leadership. One of those traits is preferring others above yourself.

The Bible commands leaders to care for the well being of those God puts around them to influence, to lead. Whether it be at work, in your home, marriage, church, school or community, leaders must be motivated by a desire to lift up others. They must have a sacrificial attitude.

I have met many people of influence, titled as leaders in secular and spiritual organizations. Some were worth following and others were not. Some were prideful, condescending, selfish and controlling. Others were strong, focused and firm, but respectful, caring, humble, giving and edifying.

It’s important to learn from the bad as well as the good. Ultimately humans will fail and no one is perfect. But that does not give any one license to not care about their affect upon others and or the organization they represent. Good leaders care about how they treat and benefit others. Each of us have a certain amount of influence, that means everyone is leading someone or something sometimes. Decide to be a good leader!

Jesus was the perfect example of a great leader. He had conviction of steel, but was velvet in kindness, compassion and love. When people needed guidance Jesus gave it in a way they could understand and learn. When they needed correction, He taught them with no condemnation, and much grace and forgiveness. He wanted people to succeed and be blessed. He was for them in every way.

True leaders lead for the betterment of others and not for selfish gain. Jesus called His disciples friends and not servants. At the end of His ministry, Jesus’ followers, His disciples, His friends, were empowered and prepared to succeed and bring benefit to the world. This is true leadership.