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Called to be a Leader: A Charge to Men

Writer's picture: Josh JacquardJosh Jacquard

Every man is called to be a leader in one way or another. This calling extends beyond mere titles or positions; it encompasses a responsibility to guide and nurture those around us—whether in our homes, within our churches, or in various aspects of life. As men striving to fulfill our God-given roles, we must recognize that we each have strengths and weaknesses. Some may excel in communication but struggle with patience, while others might be excellent teachers but find it challenging to serve sacrificially. The important aspect of leadership is striving to develop ourselves where we are weak, continually improving as leaders. The Lord has called us to important tasks, and people are relying on us to rise to the occasion.


A Developer of People

One of the essential traits of a good leader is the ability to develop people. This involves investing in others, helping them grow spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. Aside from loving their wife a fathers primary goal should be to develop their children. The Bible instructs us in Proverbs 22:6 "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This scripture highlights the critical role parents play in guiding their children. Training up a child is not a one-time event but a continuous process of teaching, correcting, and discussing.

We are called to be present in our children's lives, actively engaging in their development. This requires patience and dedication, especially when they stray from the path. As leaders, we must address their mistakes not with harshness but with love, guiding them back to a solid foundation in the Lord. 

Beyond parental responsibilities, men should also seek to mentor others. This mentorship can take many forms—whether through formal programs, church groups, or simply investing time in friendships. Titus 2:7-8 states, "In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you." By exemplifying good works and integrity, we provide a living testimony that inspires others to follow Christ.

We must also be willing to help others whenever the Lord blesses us with an opportunity. This could be a colleague at work, a friend in need, or a fellow church member struggling with a particular issue. Being a developer of people means seeing these opportunities as divine appointments to invest in the growth and well-being of those around us.

Leaders should provide encouragement and support, lifting others up and helping them realize their potential. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us, "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." By fostering a culture of encouragement, we build a supportive environment where people are more likely to succeed.


Sacrifice and Humility

Another vital aspect of leadership is the willingness to sacrifice and put others before ourselves. Many hold the misconception that leadership is about exerting control, dictating what others should do, or lording over them. In truth, biblical leadership requires humility and a servant's heart.

Mark 10:44-45 tells us, "And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." Here, Jesus exemplifies the ultimate form of leadership: serving others. True leaders do not seek to elevate themselves; instead, they seek to uplift those around them, often sacrificing their own desires for the well-being of others.

True leadership is about recognizing the needs of others and stepping in to meet those needs. This can involve emotional support, helping with practical tasks, or being present in times of crisis. Galatians 6:2 reminds us, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Leaders who serve with a purpose demonstrate love and compassion, showing that they are invested in the well-being of others.


Apt to Teach

Leadership also involves teaching—imparting wisdom and knowledge to others. As men of God, we must be diligent in our efforts to share the truths of Scripture with those we lead. The Apostle Paul exhorts in 2 Timothy 2:2, "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also." This scripture emphasizes the importance of teaching the next generation about our faith and helping them to gain an understanding, ensuring that they, too, can grow and lead.

In the church, this is particularly important. Men are called to be spiritual leaders, guiding their families and congregations in truth and righteousness. This requires not just knowledge, but also the ability to teach and inspire others to seek a deeper relationship with Christ.

A good leader fosters an environment where learning is encouraged. This often requires patience and perseverance. By promoting discussions, providing resources, and being open to questions, leaders can help others deepen their understanding of Scripture and grow in their faith. Proverbs 1:5 states, "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning, and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels." Encouraging this mindset within our families and our church family helps to cultivate leaders who are well-equipped to navigate their spiritual journeys.

Teachable and Approachable

Effective leaders are teachable and approachable. Being a leader does not mean having all the answers; it means being willing to learn from others and remaining open to feedback. Proverbs 9:9 tells us, "Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning." A teachable leader is one who seeks wisdom, listens to advice, and grows continually.

Approachability is essential in leadership. Those we lead should feel comfortable coming to us with their concerns, questions, and ideas. James 1:19 says, "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." By being approachable and willing to listen, we foster trust and open communication, creating an environment where others feel valued and understood.


Communication

Clear and effective communication is a cornerstone of good leadership. Leaders must convey their vision, expectations, and feedback in ways that are understandable and motivating. Proverbs 15:1 states, "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger." How we communicate—whether with kindness and clarity or harshness and confusion—can significantly impact those we lead.

Our words have the power to build up or tear down. Ephesians 4:29 urges, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers." Leaders should use their words to encourage, instruct, and uplift, ensuring that their communication aligns with Biblical principles and promotes unity and growth.



Love 

Love is a foundational trait of a true leader. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 emphasizes the importance of love, stating, "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing."

A leader's actions, no matter how impressive or sacrificial, are meaningless without love. Love motivates leaders to act selflessly, to prioritize the well-being of others, and to create an environment where people feel valued and cared for. As leaders, we are called to love those we lead, reflecting the love of Christ in all our interactions.



Accountability

Leaders are also called to accountability. In Hebrews 13:17, we are reminded, "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account." This verse speaks to the responsibility of leaders to oversee the well-being of those entrusted to them. Leadership is not a position of privilege, but one of accountability before God and those we lead.

As leaders, we must regularly evaluate our actions and attitudes, ensuring they align with God’s Word. We should seek feedback and be willing to listen to those we lead, acknowledging that we are all on a journey of growth.


Vision and Direction

Effective leaders provide vision and direction. Proverbs 29:18 states, "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." Leaders are called to articulate a clear vision that inspires those they lead. This vision should be rooted in Biblical principles and aimed at glorifying God. By setting goals and fostering unity around a shared mission, leaders can guide toward growth and service.


Every man is called to lead, and this calling is a profound responsibility that encompasses developing others, sacrificing for their benefit, teaching truth, being teachable and approachable, communicating effectively, holding ourselves accountable, and providing vision. We should strive to emulate the example set by Christ, who showed us that true leadership is rooted in service, love, and humility.

As we commit to becoming better leaders in our homes, our church family, and elsewhere, let us remember that our influence can shape not just our families but also the future of our church and society. Embrace this calling with determination, knowing that God equips those He calls. May we lead with integrity, guided by the principles of Scripture, to impact lives for His glory.

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