Tag: Character

No Leadership In Isolation

N.T. Wright addresses Christian character at length.

First, he examines the virtuous purpose of Christian character. The Christian life is one that develops the virtue to act naturally.

Second, he discusses the need for character transformation, a renewal of mind. Character transformation occurs within, creating a change in behavior.

Third, he considers the virtues of faith, hope and love. These virtues connect to the development of the fruit of the Spirit within the context of community.

The premise emphasizes practice and community. We need each other to implement these virtues. We cannot develop as spiritual leaders in isolation.

Challenges

Challenges can refer to a conflict of nature (I challenge you to a dual).

They indicate the magnitude, or difficulty, in achieving a specific goal (We are challenged to reach five thousands souls).

They may be an objection (Our purpose is being challenged by another organization).

Challenges also express a motivational tactic to create action (I challenge you to share Jesus with others).

Our leadership will face challenges, many of which fall into one or more of these categories.

Leadership exists in the face of challenge at every level. The true measure of our character is determined by where we stand in the times of challenge.

Capacity or Character?

The Ascent of a Leader addresses how ordinary relationships develop character and influence as leaders. Two ladders are described. 

The first is the capacity ladder where leaders strive to get ahead regardless of the cost. Relationships serve to benefit the leader’s ascent to a greater position. 

The second is the character ladder where an environment of grace exists. It is a ladder where character is developed and emphasized in leadership. Relationships thrive because people feel safe to express their views, even when mistakes are made.

The book provides a number of powerful suggestions to assist in leadership development.

Substance of Character

Character is foundational to the success of leadership. We know this to be true, but what is the substance of our character.

Psalm 15:2 contributes three key elements: a way of life, work ethic, and manner of speech. Character is defined by three phrases.

We must walk with integrity.
We must work righteousness.
We must speak truth in our heart.

While all three words (integrity, righteousness, and truth) are essential to our character, the idea behind the other three words (walk, work, and speak) is not simply about what we do, but who we are on the inside. Here is where true character begins.

Godly Character

Much has been written on the subject of character.

However, it should go without saying that a leader’s character is invaluable. Without godly character, a leader cannot succeed in leading as God desires.

Character is the substance of leadership. Where we find character, we will always find leadership.

John Maxwell writes, “Talent is a gift, but character is a choice.” General Norman Schwarzkopf said, “Leadership is the potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without strategy.”

These thoughts alone emphasize the vital need for a deeper study and understanding of this subject.

Leadership that Counts for Something

Alfred Einstein said, “Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts.”

Far too often, leadership deals with a bottom-line mentality. It is about numbers.

What we measure is important, but the value of influence, cultivating character development, or meditative prayer cannot be measured. Yet, they are life changing.

We may have multiplied thousands of dollars invested, but what is it really worth? We may have many people sitting in the pews, but are they spiritually healthy? We may spend hours reading the Bible, but do we apply it properly?

Our leadership may not always be measured, but it should count for something.

Noah

When we look at biblical leaders, several come to mind. What about Noah stands out that classifies him as a leader?

Character: “Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his time; Noah walked with God.”

Ability to follow: Genesis emphasizes that Noah did all the Lord commanded. Noah followed God.

Fortitude: Noah was a preacher of righteousness. His tenure was 120 years during the building of the ark. Leaders must stand on what is right, even if they must stand alone.

Perhaps more could be said, but these three areas show Noah to be an example of a great Biblical leader.

Transformational Leadership

Styles of leadership are numerous, one of which is transformational leadership. The idea is leadership that transforms the people around them, shaping the direction of the future.

Transformational leadership characterizes leaders who have integrity and exemplify consistency in their example. They encourage, support, and help followers look beyond their own self-interests and focus on the good of the team.

Of all leadership styles, this one connects to the heart of spiritual leadership.

Are we transforming others to live closer to God?

Are we striving to transform the lives of others by the character we demonstrate?

Courage

Does our leadership demonstrate the courage of our convictions?

Queen Latifah once said, “It’s not always easy to do the right thing. But, doing the right thing makes you strong, it builds character, it forces you to make decisions based upon your beliefs and not what other people think. In life, and in business, you have to stand for what you believe in and sometimes you have to stand alone. But, what makes you a leader is having the courage of your convictions.”

Courage is the choice to act upon our convictions at times when doing so moves us into a minority.

Will we take action?

Lead, Leader, Leadership

“Lead is a verb, leader is a noun, and leadership is both.” Not sure who to credit with this thought, but it speaks volumes.

Leadership involves both the person and action.
Leadership speaks to both who we are and what we do.
Leadership requires an effort to develop both the individual and method.
Leadership drives home the necessity of personality and character.

We must keep in mind the development process of making great spiritual leaders. The constant dedication to the act of molding one’s ability to lead helps us all become the leadership of God.