Today's post is by guest writer Joanne Beckley.
1Corinthians 7:17 Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one (man, woman, slave, free, Jew, Gentile, etc), as God has called each, in this manner let him walk. And thus I direct in all the churches.
Throughout my school years I began to recognize that my classmates would look at me when something needed to be said or done. I didn’t know why, and it was scary to think I would have to stick my neck out and be their leader. By hook or crook I led, but it was never easy, and when I failed, I was at a loss as to why the failure. I then began to realize my father and mother were teaching me by example that it wouldn’t get any easier the longer I lived unless I considered the needs of others, and not my own. No wonder they hammered into me that character must be developed, but only with God’s help. If I won or failed in my leadership, it would rest on my character.
Romans 5:3,4 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.
Leadership is the ability to guide, influence, or motivate others to achieve a goal. It is not suddenly bestowed on untried men or women. Only when approved character and a willingness to lead is recognized will a person be appointed to be a leader. When I read Numbers 32:28, it caused me to think of the past history of Joshua and Phinehas and how they developed into being God’s chosen instruments to lead His people into the Promised Land.
Joshua (Hoshea) the son of Nun is first mentioned in Exodus 17 in leading the Israelites slaves in their fight against the Amalekites. Only a month had passed since leaving Egypt and he had these men become a force to be reckoned with! At Mt Sinai he accompanied Moses to the mountain (Exodus 24,32). As a young man, he would serve Moses in whatever way he could (Exodus 33:10), and was jealous (mistakenly) for Moses’ ability to prophesy (Numbers 11). At Kadesh-barnea, he and Caleb expressed full confidence in God, exhorting the multitude to remain faithful (Numbers 13). 40 years later, just before Moses died, Joshua was given the spirit of wisdom and was commissioned to lead the Israelites in conquering the land of Canaan (Deuteronomy 34:9). His faith, his commitment to God, and his loyalty to Moses was conspicuous and unswerving. As Moses’ successor, he faithfully acted upon his principles. He was a brave and competent general, wise in the fight.
Phinehas son of Eleazar, was a grandson of Aaron, chief of Korahite Levites (1Ch 9:20). In Numbers 25 Phinehas is first mentioned when he took a leading part in cleansing Israel from whoredom at Shittim before the Israelites entered Canaan. His strong action is also referred to in Ps 106:30,31. His faithful services were secured to his house in the succession of the priesthood (Nu 26:11). Before Moses died, he became high priest and helped Joshua in conquering Canaan. He went on to inquire into the reported idolatry of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh (Josh 22), and delivered the decision to fight the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 20:28). His character was marked with strong moral indignation and fine integrity.
So, what qualities should a man or woman exhibit in becoming a leader for God? No matter whether this leadership is found in the work place, in the church, or in the home, there are certain characteristics that must be present if that leader is to be pleasing to God.
1. Integrity. A leader with integrity draws on his values to guide his decisions, his behavior, and his dealings with others. He has clear convictions about what is right and wrong and is respected for being genuine and consistent. He has a strong sense of character, keeps his promises, and communicates openly, honestly and directly with others.
Col 3:17 And whatever you do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
2. Willing to make hard decisions. When facing a tough decision, a leader must start by determining what he is trying to achieve. He must consider the likely consequences and recognize possible alternatives. He must then make his final decision with conviction, take responsibility for it, and follow it through.
Romans 11:20b You stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but in awe (of God).
3. Encourage others to be leaders. A good leader will recognize courage and passion in others. He will demonstrate his confidence in others to develop their own leadership qualities. He will promote commitment in their desire to become leaders.
1Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing.
Leadership can be seen in your example of being a faithful servant of Christ. A leader is recognized when you see a need and wisely act upon it, encouraging others to share in providing a solution. A good leader will be willing to teach the gospel, especially on a one-to-one basis. Indeed, you can be a leader for the Lord.
Joanne Beckley
1Corinthians 7:17 Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one (man, woman, slave, free, Jew, Gentile, etc), as God has called each, in this manner let him walk. And thus I direct in all the churches.
Throughout my school years I began to recognize that my classmates would look at me when something needed to be said or done. I didn’t know why, and it was scary to think I would have to stick my neck out and be their leader. By hook or crook I led, but it was never easy, and when I failed, I was at a loss as to why the failure. I then began to realize my father and mother were teaching me by example that it wouldn’t get any easier the longer I lived unless I considered the needs of others, and not my own. No wonder they hammered into me that character must be developed, but only with God’s help. If I won or failed in my leadership, it would rest on my character.
Romans 5:3,4 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope.
Leadership is the ability to guide, influence, or motivate others to achieve a goal. It is not suddenly bestowed on untried men or women. Only when approved character and a willingness to lead is recognized will a person be appointed to be a leader. When I read Numbers 32:28, it caused me to think of the past history of Joshua and Phinehas and how they developed into being God’s chosen instruments to lead His people into the Promised Land.
Joshua (Hoshea) the son of Nun is first mentioned in Exodus 17 in leading the Israelites slaves in their fight against the Amalekites. Only a month had passed since leaving Egypt and he had these men become a force to be reckoned with! At Mt Sinai he accompanied Moses to the mountain (Exodus 24,32). As a young man, he would serve Moses in whatever way he could (Exodus 33:10), and was jealous (mistakenly) for Moses’ ability to prophesy (Numbers 11). At Kadesh-barnea, he and Caleb expressed full confidence in God, exhorting the multitude to remain faithful (Numbers 13). 40 years later, just before Moses died, Joshua was given the spirit of wisdom and was commissioned to lead the Israelites in conquering the land of Canaan (Deuteronomy 34:9). His faith, his commitment to God, and his loyalty to Moses was conspicuous and unswerving. As Moses’ successor, he faithfully acted upon his principles. He was a brave and competent general, wise in the fight.
Phinehas son of Eleazar, was a grandson of Aaron, chief of Korahite Levites (1Ch 9:20). In Numbers 25 Phinehas is first mentioned when he took a leading part in cleansing Israel from whoredom at Shittim before the Israelites entered Canaan. His strong action is also referred to in Ps 106:30,31. His faithful services were secured to his house in the succession of the priesthood (Nu 26:11). Before Moses died, he became high priest and helped Joshua in conquering Canaan. He went on to inquire into the reported idolatry of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh (Josh 22), and delivered the decision to fight the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 20:28). His character was marked with strong moral indignation and fine integrity.
So, what qualities should a man or woman exhibit in becoming a leader for God? No matter whether this leadership is found in the work place, in the church, or in the home, there are certain characteristics that must be present if that leader is to be pleasing to God.
1. Integrity. A leader with integrity draws on his values to guide his decisions, his behavior, and his dealings with others. He has clear convictions about what is right and wrong and is respected for being genuine and consistent. He has a strong sense of character, keeps his promises, and communicates openly, honestly and directly with others.
Col 3:17 And whatever you do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
2. Willing to make hard decisions. When facing a tough decision, a leader must start by determining what he is trying to achieve. He must consider the likely consequences and recognize possible alternatives. He must then make his final decision with conviction, take responsibility for it, and follow it through.
Romans 11:20b You stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but in awe (of God).
3. Encourage others to be leaders. A good leader will recognize courage and passion in others. He will demonstrate his confidence in others to develop their own leadership qualities. He will promote commitment in their desire to become leaders.
1Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing.
Leadership can be seen in your example of being a faithful servant of Christ. A leader is recognized when you see a need and wisely act upon it, encouraging others to share in providing a solution. A good leader will be willing to teach the gospel, especially on a one-to-one basis. Indeed, you can be a leader for the Lord.
Joanne Beckley
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