As pastors and ministry leaders, we know that knowledge is power.
This is why continuing education and training to gain knowledge, skills, and experience are critical for leaders.
There is danger here that can stunt our growth as leaders and effectiveness in ministry for true Kingdom impact.
Leaders may be reluctant to equip others for fear that they will lose power and influence if others become more knowledgeable, skilled, or experienced than they are.
That can be true in the world. But not so with the Kingdom of Christ.
The more you give to others, the more you will receive from the Lord. Jesus says:
“Give, and it will be given to you: A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be poured into your lap. For the measure you use will be the measure you receive.” (Luke 6:38)
Overcome your worldly fear, and give freely and generously everything you know and have gained from your learning. Empower and equip others to lead. Multiply leaders.
Leaders are learners. The more you build others to become leaders, the more you will learn to lead leaders.
You probably never heard of Henrietta Mears. She was influential in the lives of Billy Graham, Bill & Vonnette Bright (Founders of Campus Crusade for Christ, now Cru International), Jim Rayburn (Founder of Young Life), Louis Evans Jr. (Pastor of National Presbyterian Church, Washington D.C.), and many other Christian leaders in the 20th-century U.S.
You can aspire to be a great leader. Better yet, you can aspire to be a leader who has influenced and discipled many others who become greater leaders than you are.
True Greatness of a Leader
King David was known as a giant-killer because he defeated Goliath. His lieutenants became giant-killers.
You always multiply who you are and not what you teach. Your character matters.
But his true greatness as king and leader came from his undivided and devoted heart for God.
I have asked the LORD for one thing – this is what I desire! I want to live in the LORD’s house all the days of my life, so I can gaze at the splendor of the LORD and contemplate in his temple. (Psalm 27:4)
Your tender heart for God is foundational for being truly a great leader after God’s own heart.