What’s the most effective way to be a leader for Christ? Here are some of the lessons I’ve learned on leadership and having a positive influence toward others, even when you’re not first in command.
Okay, so I’m not officially a leader.
I’m not a captain of a team, or the lead singer at my church. I’m not even second in command. So why am I writing about leadership?
Because I’m here to tell you that you can be a leader no matter what your ‘title’ is. Anyone can be a leader! God tells us to be doers of the word, not just hearers. If you feel like you’re waiting for an opportunity to do good things, don’t! Set an example for others and walk in the ways of God, spreading his love. You’ll soon find that others will catch on as well!
During the cross country season, I’ve looked up lots of verses on leadership. One of my favorites was John 3:30:
“He must increase, but I must decrease.”
This doesn’t seem like a verse about leadership, but what I’ve learned is that leadership means furthering God’s kingdom and helping others do the same. God deserves all the glory in the accomplishments that we do for him. One way that shows leadership is through your kindness and encouragement to others. This is one of my favorite ways to lead because it doesn’t require standing up and making speeches or being pinpointed to make a decision. This is just a small way to show God that you want to glorify him and encourage others.
Say you’re on a team and you’re the leader. What do you think would be more of a positive influence? Standing around telling people what to do, or being the one to uplift your teammates and bring the team closer together in Christ? Honestly, I can say that I am perfectly content NOT being an official leader. I’d rather use what influence I have on others to show God’s love. And I’ve come to realize, as you will too, I have a lot more influence on others than I thought I did!
I want to share with you what one of my friends told me as he reflected on what he’d learned on leadership, being the captain of the cross country team. He says,
“The hardest part of being a leader isn’t telling people what to do or making good decisions for the group or being expected to pray. The hard part is constantly being aware that everyone is watching you and what you do will affect their behavior and future.”
Think about it! Are there little kids in your church or at your school that look up to you? Do you notice your friends or siblings look up to you? They’re watching what say and how you act, and they’re going to copy you because you’re their leader! Everyone is a leader in some way or form. Remember that even when you don’t realize it, you are a leader! Look at this responsibility as a blessing and use it wisely, and not only will it benefit others, but it will benefit you as well!
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