The Gift of Leadership
“A person with leadership can bring influence on others and guide them towards the bigger picture. If an individual with the gift of leadership is trying to build their gift, they must constantly look for ways they can allow their guidance to be the navigating force to greater good. Look for projects and avenues where divine management can nurture and grow developments into unforeseen wonders.”
As an introvert, I’ve always seen myself as a reluctant leader. I believe I have the gift of leadership and the calling. I have never gone into a leadership position totally confident that I can do the job. So, it’s funny that God called me to be the Discipleship Ministry Team Leader.
I believe there were a lot of reluctant leaders in the Bible. Abraham, Moses, and Jacob come to mind. And of course, Jonah did not want to have to lead the Ninevites to repentance. He was reluctant to the absurd. God leads us and with the help of the Holy Spirit nudges us to lead for the greater good. If we will just answer the call.
For those of us who do not have the spiritual gift of leadership, we are still called to exercise this gift with the possibility of gaining skills in this area. So here are four ideas to ease into welcoming others while using some of your God-given spiritual gifts:
1. Share What You Love
Even if your gift is not leadership, you are gifted at other things. If you are gifted with crafting or woodworking, find ways to lead a class in these areas. Knowing what you are doing goes a long way toward not thinking that you have followers as much as co-workers in an area of passion for you.
2. Take a Class
There are so many online and in-person classes that you can take on leadership. Find one and commit to attend. Take notes and highlight three things that you will begin to make habits in your workplace or church. If you can’t take the time or spend the money to take a class, there are excellent leadership books out there that can also help. Contact the DMT for some suggestions.
3. Learn from the Best
Think about the people you know, who are great leaders. What are some of the characteristics that make them so? Sit down with one or two of them and pick their brain as to what makes a good leader and how they acquired the skills or characteristics to lead. They may simply say that they were born with these skills or they are God-given. Ask them how they honed these skills and talk about some of their experiences that either helped or hindered their leadership.
4. Get Some Experience
Talk to your pastor and/or a session member or other church leader. Share with them your desire to sharpen your leadership skills and get some practice being a leader. They may pair you with a Sunday school teacher who is willing for you to assist them and then spend some time showing you how they prepare for the class. There may also be other things such as reading scripture or praying in worship that can help you ease into speaking before people.