Spiritual leadership: outer circle

  circle of leadership

These are qualities that are helpful, but not essential for spiritual leadership.

Restless (Holy discontent)

They always want spiritual growth for their people. They want to see the kingdom of God grow both numerically and qualitatively, spiritual maturity within the church and growing church membership/attendance.

Optimistic

Hopeful in tough situations that God will prevail. That in dark times, they will end.

Intense

The leader will have zeal and passion for God. This is not just talking about personality, but that internally they are driven. They take seriously the things of God's kingdom.

Thick-skinned

Leaders are always criticized. No matter what you do, there will always be push back. There is the temptation to people please rather than do what God desires. You must do what you feel is best based on God's leading. This is different from thick skulled. You must consider criticism to see if there is any truth in it.

Tactful

If we are moving people toward Christ, we cannot be offensive and discouraging those we wish to follow Christ.

A Hard Thinker

The leader gets many suggestions. They need to consider these with discernment. They are not gullible or trendy. They are careful to not get pulled into all these different things. They weigh things in light of scripture. Is this biblical?

Self-controlled

We use God's power to take mastery over our appetites and desires. We intentionally examine our use of time as to how it affects our ministry. Is there anything wasting my time? Dulling our affections for God? Efficient?

Perseverant

We live in a time of instant gratification. Perseverance is needed for spiritual fruit. Vision without perseverance results in fairy tales.

Restful

Leaders must work hard without becoming workaholics. They are not reliant upon their own strength. They rest knowing that the Lord will compete the work. They work hard and fight the good fight, but they are not anxious or stressed. They are good stewards of their body.  They take vacation to avoid burnout.