A Leader! Are you one?

A leader is defined by one dictionary as the person who convinces other people to follow. According to one definition I read, a great leader inspires confidence in other people and moves them to action. They make sure those they serve have the tools and skills to get a desired outcome (Matt 20:26). They are good communicators and able to share a vision in a way to gain buy in from those around them. 

Many people consider themselves leaders because they are a boss. But a leader is so much more than that. In fact, a leader doesn’t have to be in charge at all. Leadership skills can be found in anyone and it’s all about how they use the skills they have to influence those around them. People can be led into success or trouble (Prov 11:14). 

If you take a look at the great leaders of the past, e.g., Martin Luther King, Jr., Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa, etc. (Heb 13:7), you see people who valued others ahead of themselves (Phil 2:3-4). They fought for people who couldn’t fight for themselves. They set an example to follow and made sacrifices for the greater good. They were humble and recognized God’s hand allowing Him to raise them in stature (Jam 4:10). 

Bad leaders are all in it for themselves. They look for ways they can be elevated and don’t care who they step on so they can be thought well of. They don’t care about those they serve, but they are still able to sell their agendas. People have to wary of any leader’s motives and intentions – that will color what they do and say. 

I mentioned a while ago, we have to be careful because people are always watching. Recently, I realized a good leader makes good decisions and acts appropriately even when they don’t know anyone is watching. A good leader does the right thing because it’s the right thing to do whether people are around to be impressed or not. Their decisions and actions line up with their values and they strive to make sure others are encouraged and lifted up. Good leaders recognize that to whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:48). 

Are you a leader? Good or bad? Are you showing them good or bad leadership qualities? What do you do when you think no one is watching? Do you consider others before yourself? These are all questions to answer if you’re looking to lead people. These are also things to consider for when you answer for where you’ve led people.