By Rev. Phyllis Bowers Executive Director United Methodist Stewardship Foundation
I recently read an article on leadership listing the five traits required as building blocks. The stewardship challenge I would add though is that for Christians, these traits need to be developed in the right order.
A leader cares. Not only do we have Scripture on the importance of sacrificial love, but we are warned of the emptiness of trying to do anything without it. “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:2)
A leader has courage. God is always there with his perfect love so we have the courage to stand, to be accountable, and to be changed by God - “for the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 2:7)
A leader has character. Character comes from the practice of persistence and humility from someone willing to be loved by God with the courage to follow him. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
A leader communicates. Once you genuinely model and keep growing in love, courage, and character, you cannot keep your light hidden; you become a leader. Your words communicate in unity with your actions. “A person finds joy in giving an apt reply, and how good is a timely word!” (Proverbs 15:23)
A leader has competence. While we do our best to present ourselves to God “as one approved” (2 Timothy 2:15) we also admit the paradoxical truth: “Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God.” (2 Corinthians 3:5)
As we give thanks for all we have, let’s thank God for lessons on leadership. He has given us our example and taught us everything. Let’s lead others to church and learn even more together.
The United Methodist Stewardship Foundation
3901 Hartzdale Dr. Suite 110
Camp Hill, PA 17011
Phone 717-766-7343 Toll Free 800-272-0113
sfcpa@umstewardship.org
