What makes you a good Leader in the Church?

As Pastors, teachers, leaders......etc....we need to know what makes us good leaders as we each serve the Church with our gifts.

Many leaders are Type A individuals that at first they think they would do a much better job if it were not for all the problem people around them. Type A leaders are often lifted up as the ones who build great ministries because they are efficient. Many of these begin their work aggressively, getting the job done at all costs. Beginners unconsciously see talented people as tools to build something for the glory of God and weaker people as dead weight who bring everyone down. These rookie leaders think more about the responsibility others have to them than the responsibility they have to others. I encourage you not to fall into this category.

In Hebrews 13:17 and Phil 2:4 we are commanded to live for others. After a few awkward instances we realize that we can't do what God has called us to do without help. Once this has been cleared up in our heads we as leaders began to care how well others are doing in their own race because it affects how well they can do. When a leader realizes he/she cannot afford to try and go it alone the Lord turns their attention to those around them.

If you are a leader and are a part of a ministry - you have a few responsibilities:

1. See those around you and seek them....

The young girl that got her feelings hurt is important to God. The shy young man that never contributes because of his shyness is important to God. The woman that has so many needs...is important to God. The man that is harsh with words...is important to God. We need a personal relationship with each one of them. Leaders are to know people by name, know what they need, know where they are going and what they need to do.

2. Encourage them...

When I was 16, I encouraged a very shy young man that went from never talking to being the clown in our church group. I spent time with him as a friend during a youth conference and literally by the end of the weekend he was out of his shell. It was incredible to me because the change was so drastic. His family asked what I had done to him jokingly...but all I did was listen to him, tease him and encouraged him. A few years later when he got married he wrote to me and thanked me for helping him come out of his shell. He was no longer shy and made a choice to not let others and fear keep him locked up. Man! that was such a blessing to me. I will never forget him!

3. Once a relationship is developed - Shake up their world...

Let them know they can do far more than they dreamed. Build a fire in their heart...let them see God's power working through you as a leader.

4. Help them grow...

Suggest ministries and events for them to get involved in. Share with them the books that have impacted your life. Contact them, check on them periodically. We are to steer them not drive them. Pointing them not forcing them into God's direction.

5. Show them...

I personally trained my last secretary and I literally had her follow me everywhere around the office. I took her under my wing and walked each day with her for 2 weeks and showed her all the things I needed her to learn and understand. I showed, pointed, gave examples and encouraged her. She is still a dear friend to me and we had and have a mutual respect for each other til this day even though we don't work together any longer.

6. Shape their heart...

How do you do this? By example. You should always use nurturing words, not harsh ones, if a harsh word slips be quick to apologize. "Sometimes we don't see clearly how we deliver the message"...(a dear friend J.O. mentioned this statement to me and it prompted my spirit!) Thanks blondie!

7. Set them Free ...

We need to supervise but not smother...When the ministry has the right people in the right spot who are working in love and unity, we are promised that the ministry will increase with the increase of God. Thats so much better than the increase of a bunch of talented people!

God personally cares for all His people. Leaders should be known for their care of people more than they should be known for accomplishing great deeds.


What kind of Leader are You?

by: Ruth Galdamez - June '09