Fall is a time when ministry leaders typically step forward in new schedules and events. The weather begins to change and energizes people to work their mission. September represents fresh beginnings and excitement. But I think of October as the month of routine before the holiday rush begins. However, my schedule this year is running a month behind as I have begun a new thing.
Early morning time with the Lord is my favorite time of the day. But a morning this week as I studied, it hit me like a ton of bricks. “You’ve put yourself out there. Are you ready for this?” The “this” is the launching of a new ministry webpage. The Lord reminded me that morning that with leadership comes visibility.
That morning I was reminded of three key links of leadership.
- 1. You have responsibility. As a leader, there are things you are required to accomplish. You have duties or obligations to perform and complete.
- 2. You are accountable. Being responsible means you are accountable. That means you are subject to the obligation to report and explain the details of your responsibility to those involved, whether a superior or those who follow your lead.
- 3. You are an example. What you report and explain about your decisions and accomplishments will be an example to others of what leadership looks like, good or bad. Being an example reveals your character. That is a powerful statement to take to heart. How do you want your character to be revealed? Your example is a pattern to be imitated or avoided.
These links work together to form a chain of leadership. Leadership means responsibility which links to accountability which results in example whether it is a good one or not.
If I am a leader but don’t accomplish my responsibility, then the privilege of being a leader is simply a title. If I take care of the responsibilities of leadership but am not accountable to anyone, then I am not leading, simply working the task alone. If I am accountable to others but asking them to do things I would not do myself, then my example is not of good character and stands the chance of leading others astray.
What is the goal of quality leadership? Lead by taking responsibility to accomplish the role through accountability to God and others as an example of godly behavior and leadership. Study the character traits of God and follow the example of Christ in word and deed. Pray for wisdom, that means the right use of the mind, in every decision and action.
Numerous times in the gospels, Jesus said “Follow me”. Then He led by example. Of that example, Peter later stated, “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in His steps. He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” (I Peter 2:21-22)
Leadership is not easy, but it is necessary in order to follow the plan and purpose God has established for you no matter the cost. If you are in ministry leadership, be encouraged in knowing the end result is worth every minute you devote to the completion of the responsibility.
