The gift of leadership is the ability to build relationships of commitment to common goals; constructive sharing of visions, values, ideas and feelings; and accurate assessment of actual realities.
Scriptural References
Exodus 17:1-7, 1 Samuel 25:2-44, 2 Samuel 20:14-22, Romans 16:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13, 1 Timothy 3:1-7, 1 Timothy 5:17-22, Hebrews 13:17
Biblical Models
Moses, Joshua, Deborah, David, Abigail, Esther, Jesus, the Disciples, Phoebe
People with this gift can
- Stay calm in the midst of anxiety and conflict.
- Distinguish between feelings and thoughts; rumours and facts.
- Stay connected with those in disagreement.
- Observe and constructively name in-the-moment unexpressed feelings, values, interests, etc.
Keep the “big picture” in view. - Set goals, work to achieve them, and welcome evaluation.
- Take responsibility for failures and credit others for successes.
Cautions
- May not have anyone who knows them “as they really are,” and can hold them accountable.
- Will face temptations to abuse power, money, sex, authority, etc.
- May find it difficult to remain humble.
- May find it difficult to admit weaknesses, and seek advice and support.
- May find it difficult to admit errors.
Personal Traits
- Influential
- Trustworthy
- Persuasive
- Motivating
- Energetic
- Diligent
- Self-Aware
- Visionary
- Flexible
Tips for nurturing this gift
- Have strong foundation in Biblical models of servant-leadership.
- Read and attend seminars on leadership and organizations.
- Have an outside coach or colleagues for support and accountability.
Possible Tasks
Minister, lay leader, worship leader, long-term planning, project leader, …
Not to be confused with the responsibility of all Christians to …
Be responsible for the health of the church.
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(c) 2004, 2006, 2008 David Ewart, www.davidewart.ca
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