To lead well, we must lead ourselves.
“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” Acts 20:28
In First Timothy, chapter 3, Paul states that anyone who is desiring the office of an overseer is desiring a noble task. Leadership is a calling in which we lay ourselves down for the benefit of the those we have been put in charge of, and for the purpose of executing God’s agenda here on earth. This calling is not to be taken lightly, as it was paid for at a high price.
It is for this reason Paul takes such time in outlining the office of the overseer in First Timothy 3. Yes, we can look to these words as guidance for choosing leaders. However, its primary focus for us today is a litmus for our own selves. What is the example we are setting, how are we living our lives out for Christ, and then how do we impart all of this into our leadership role?
Spiritual Practices
First, we need to examine our own spiritual practices and relationship with the Lord. Are we taking time to read the Word? Do we have a healthy prayer, communication with the Lord? I cannot lead others, if I myself have broken from good habits and commune with God.
Leading within my Home
Second, we must look at our first fruits. How are we leading the people who are closest to us? Are we setting an example to those whom we love most? It is impossible for any family to be perfect, the importance here is that we are laying biblical foundations in our home.
Leading with Responsibility
Our ministry responsibility doesn’t negate the responsibility to our own growth and development, nor does it diminish the importance of the ministry to and within our family and inner circle. How we handle God’s Word and His love will have the greatest impact on those we are trying to reach.
To lead well, we must lead ourselves.
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