Page 16 - May 2023 - Truth & Tidings

challenges that will inevitably arise. This to recognize, unlike their counterparts in
road map may not be clear to those help- the world, that any development toward a
ing you, depending on the complexity of goal must also take into account the spiri-
what you hope to achieve, but in order to tual development of the fellow believers
be a good leader you need to have clarity who are helping to realize the goal.
in the path you plan to take. As a leader gains more responsibility in
In addition to having a good sense a certain sphere, often an “inner circle” is
of timing, an effective leader must also required. An effective leader recognizes
have an understanding of momentum. the skills in others that would be essential
A successful leader will sense that this for strong leadership and will gather those
intangible factor is an important tool for who have the requisite skills that may be
progress toward his vision. In Luke 13:32, lacking in the leader. Also, it is a way for
the Lord states, “I do cures today and a leader to mentor others in leadership
tomorrow, and the third day I shall be skills. As we know, the Lord Jesus had no
perfected.” There was a sense of flow, or “weaknesses” but still saw it important to
momentum, in the Lord’s ministry that led draw Peter, James and John into His inner
to His goal. A leader is often impeded by circle. He knew how to delegate respon-
challenges but will seek all means not to sibility and, in this way, mentored others
lose momentum toward the goal. in leadership skills. These disciples went
Also, to succeed, the leader needs to on to develop sound leadership skills that
have a determination to accomplish the were imperative in the growing Christian
tasks to reach his goals. This determina- Church.
tion can be a motivating factor for all Finally, there is a cost to leadership. If
those he is leading. We read how the Lord you have a vision for some work for the
“steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusa- Lord, it will involve sacrifice. Are you pre-
lem” (Luk 9:51). Progress toward any goal pared to spend the time on the intended
usually involves overcoming challenges. goal and accept the possible impact on
There are numerous examples where de- your secular work or leisure time? Being
termination played a vital role for leaders a leader may also be a lonely experience
to accomplish their goal. and, depending on the extent of your
Leadership also requires embracing a exercise and the number of fellow believ-
process rather than working through a ers needed to achieve your vision, your
sequence of events. The disciples were responsibilities and time commitment will
always very keen on what would happen increase as you progress toward your goal.
next, asking questions like, “How can a In conclusion, there is a growing need
man satisfy these men with bread here in for leadership in Christian service. There
the wilderness?” or, “What shall be the are so many spheres of service available
sign of thy coming?” or, “When will the but a real lack of “champions” to lead.
kingdom be restored?” These events were How about you? Do you have a goal? Do
important, but the Lord had a parallel you see a sphere of service in your as-
and more important goal of seeing His sembly that is currently unfilled? As you
disciples develop and mature, preparing consider the leadership qualities of the
them for the time when He would no lon- Lord Jesus, may our God empower you
ger be with them. Christian leaders need and lead you in service to Him.

144 TRUTH kTidings May 2023