Lead by Example


Some People Are Born Leaders
Some people seem to have a natural charisma for leadership. Put them into any group situation, and like cream that moves to the top, they will inevitably be looked upon by others for leadership. People naturally follow them. It is not something that is forced. You can't make people follow you - at least not for long.

Yet if you think about it Jesus never instructed his disciples to be charismatic extroverts. Jesus took twelve men of varied backgrounds, inhibitions, abilities, and inabilities and sent them out. He used them "just as they were." Who of us ever heard anything about Batholemew or Thaddeus? They were the quiet ones, the less charismatic disciples, that made an impact on the world.

I have known quiet leaders. These are men and women who never stand on a platform, never speak in public. They are not movers and shakers. They are never the center of attention, they are not the life of the party, they never stir up a commotion. Most of them are not even "people persons." Yet, filled with the Holy Spirit, they quietly go about the Father's business impacting lives with quiet resolve and deep commitment they lead by example.

Moses was by nature a quiet man. Yet God used him mightily. In fact, being an example of Christ is more important to God than leading the multitude. God wants his people to have a meek and quiet spirit. Compare that to the "7 Laws of Leadership." God's standards and measurements are different than those of society. God prioritizes leadership by example. Paul said, "Be followers of me, as I am of Christ." In other words "follow my example." Character is more important than charisma!

What does God want leaders to exemplify?

Paul tells Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:12:
"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

In Word - logos
In your speech, conversations, sayings, commands,

Be an example in Conversation - astrophe
In your lifestyle, manner of life, conduct, behaviour, deportment

In Charity - agape
In your brotherly love, affection, good will, love, benevolence, love feasts, which includes your example of hospitality.

In Spirit - pneuma
In your attitudes, motivations, your essence, etc. Let it be a gentle breeze.

In Faith - pistis
In your confidence in God, conviction of the truth, belief in God's promises, your prayers.

In Purity - hagneia
In your holiness, purity, sinlessness of life, personal integrity.