Being a Great Leader

Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.  Proverbs 11:14

     We are all leading others, whether it be our children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, fellow employees, friends, disciples, etc…  Learning to be a better leader is something that we could all benefit from.  This is why there are so many books and resources on this topic.  Take for example James Kouzes and Barry Posner’s Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership Model below.  This is great information that can benefit us, but it is not anything new.  Jesus showed us all these principles in action 2000 years ago. 

1. Model the Way – Jesus said go and sin no more. He was not telling us to do something that He, Himself, did not do (Hebrews 4:15). 1 Peter 2:21b-22 says, “[Christ] leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: “Who committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth.”
2. Inspire a Shared Vision – Jesus often spoke of things in the future.  He told his disciples about His death, His return, and about the Holy Spirit coming upon them (Luke 24:49, John 16:13).  Then in John 14:12b He said, “He who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.”
3. Challenge the Process – Jesus appropriately challenged many processes in the church, including driving out the money changers (Matthew 21:12) and working/healing on the Sabbath (Luke 13:10-17, Matthew 12:1-14).  He also challenged the traditions of men in Mark 7:13.
4. Enable Others to Act – Jesus taught/equipped His disciples and then sent them out to preach the Gospel, teach the Word, heal the sick, etc.. (Luke 10:1-12, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15-20)
5. Encourage the Heart – Jesus did not label people as they were, but called them for their potential of what they could be. God is love and love believes the very best (1 Corinthians 13). Jesus encouraged Peter by calling him a rock even though he may have acted like a ding-a-ling at times.  Speaking the potential gives people hope to fulfill God’s true calling.

Jesus clearly demonstrated all 5 of these practices and gave us an example of how to lead others.  Imitate our God who was the best Leader ever!  (Ephesians 5:1)