Tag: God

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.

Make a Decision

It goes without saying that leaders must make sound and timely decisions. There are two key elements we need to develop with this thought.

The first is the idea of “sound” decisions. From a spiritual leadership perspective, the soundness of one’s decisions is based on a Biblical compass.

The second involves the word “timely.” An impatient, or even impetuous, approach to decision-making can create more difficulty in our leadership. Learning God’s timing helps us greatly.

We build credibility when decisions are made on this basis.

Big Thinking

Leadership must not be about small thinking. Leaders must think big!

William Arthur Ward once said, “Nothing limits achievement like small thinking. Nothing equals possibilities like unleashed thinking.”

Big thinking always sees opportunities.
Big thinking empowers the abilities of others.
Big thinking creates a “possibility” mindset.
Big thinking will not place limitations on God.

If the church is to see the power of God at work through her to accomplish His will, we must start thinking big. God needs leaders who think and plan big, work incessantly, and trust God to empower and deliver.

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?

Generosity

The idea of generosity is characterized by this thought: The greatest Giver (God), with the greatest motive (love) gave the greatest gift (His only Son) for the greatest need (our sin).

Leaders should exemplify generosity. The value of generosity is witnessed in the example of God.

Leadership is built on giving.

…our time
…our energy
…our money
…our emotions
…our ability

What best suits your giving? Do you give what is left over, easy and convenient, or is your generosity suited by giving your best?

Succession Planning

Christianity is a learned, taught system. This duplication process is how Christianity grows.

The same is true for leaders, especially spiritual leaders.

John Maxwell calls this the “Law of Reproduction.” He says, “If you want to grow, lead followers. If you want to multiply, lead leaders.”

Are we planning, grooming, and mentoring someone to lead when we are gone?

Too often, we find a lack of qualified men to lead God’s people. Why? There are several reasons, but one falls on the need for leaders to reproduce themselves.

Let us rise up and change the future by preparing others to lead today.

The Time is Now

Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Now is the acceptable time.

It is time…

It is time for leaders to stand up and lead.
It is time to be men and women of God.
It is time to fulfill your role and responsibility in the home.
It is time for Christians to speak up about their faith.

All you have is right now, and it is time. Do not waste what God has given you. Take advantage of the time you are given and begin now!

It is time to make a difference.

Seeing the Unseen

This statement deals with more than just “seeing” God. What exactly is involved? Consider a little background.

We must consider where we have been. Consider the past year. What mistakes were made? What successes were enjoyed? Was God part of the equation?

We must also consider where we are right now. Are we where we need to be at this time? Will this place provide a basis for where we need to go? Is God part of the equation?

Now we can formulate plans on where to go from here. Seeing God’s part in our past and present allows us to see His hand in our future.

If God is not part of the equation, we do not have a clear vision!

Appreciation

When businesses host a “Customer Appreciation Day,” they offer special pricing to express their gratitude to customers.

Appreciation is best summed up in the depth of our gratitude. Cicero claimed, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.” (Cicero, ‘Pro Plancio,’ 54 B.C.)

When was the last time you expressed gratitude?
What actions or qualities move you to be thankful?
How often do you express your gratitude?
Have you considered why you are thankful?

Express your gratitude for the physical and spiritual ways God has blessed your life. To Him be the glory.

Obligation

An obligation is an act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound, a duty or commitment.

While it is impossible to force someone to do anything, we tend to use our skills of persuasion whenever we can to motivate others into action.

When we consider leadership, we need to examine our obligation to Christ and others.

We have tasted the grace of God. We enjoy the gift of salvation. Just the thought carries a moral and spiritual obligation.

Considering our obligation highlights the need to commit ourselves to lead others to heaven.