Being a Spiritual Leader
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up
James 4:10
We know from God’s Word that we are called to be humble servants, walking in obedience to the Lord’s will. So, how can we be spiritual leaders if we are humble servants? How was Christ a spiritual leader and at the same time a humble servant? Leadership by the world’s definition is not the same as being a spiritual leader.
Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3:15) A spiritual leader is someone who is led by Christ to reflect Christ’s love, compassion, and wisdom. A spiritual leader is someone others look up to for support, encouragement, and wisdom. A spiritual leader is the one who comforts others in times of hardship, even though they themselves may likewise be hurting.
We understand from God’s Word that Jesus was humble, and yet he taught the good news to people and he trained his disciples. We teach the Word through our Godly lifestyles, by speaking the truth to others, or teaching a Bible class, all with a loving, humble heart. We can be an Elder in the church, a minister, lead men’s retreats, or coordinate a Bible study and still do all this with a humble, serving heart. Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve. (Colossians 3:23-24) Whatever we do in this life, we do as humble servants of the Lord. We are active in serving the Lord and we take the lead in bringing Christ to the world. We are humble servants and the Holy Spirit leads us to be leaders in this world for Christ.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. (Philippians 2:3) This verse describes the heart of a spiritual leader. It is someone whose life is centered around serving God and pointing people to Christ. All of God’s people are spiritual leaders who actively seek to bring God’s truth and love to this lost world. Begin to see yourself as a spiritual leader by letting Christ in you lead others to their heavenly home. We do not have to lead a church committee, teach a Bible class, be an Elder, or a minister; we are spiritual leaders when we reveal Christ in us to the world.
Today, see yourself as a spiritual leader and lead others to Christ through your actions and by your words. We have the knowledge and hope of Christ in us, and people in this world are looking for the Truth. Reflect Christ to others with love and compassion through a gentle, caring heart.
Let’s pray: Lord, help me to be a spiritual leader as Jesus was a spiritual leader. Guide me in the Spirit to confidently reflect Christ to others with a patient, loving heart. Guide me with your wisdom to bring the good news to others. Open my eyes to see the souls that are searching for the Truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.