“People follow a leader, not a title.” I’ve heard this many times over the years.
It’s a great concept for church staff to understand. For you, your title should be a reminder of service. For others, it may carry a little weight. An official title does not guarantee people will follow. But there are attributes to which followers are attracted.
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Here are four attributes that people will follow:
Courage
A leader must have courage to move ahead. The leader must have courage to make tough calls. The leader must have courage to step out and take risks.
“Courage is not the absence of fear, but the capacity to act in the presence of fear. Faith is not the absence of doubt, but the courage to believe in spite of doubt.” ~ Rev. M. Harvey
Courage is the ability to solve problems realistically in the presence of fear. ~Stuart Walker
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Enthusiasm
People will follow someone who is upbeat and enthusiastic about life, the ministry and the organization. It’s not always a glass is half full attitude. Leaders don’t gloss over difficult issues. But they do have an ability to take things in stride, to smile and to be friendly. They are enthused about their work. It becomes contagious.
“There is a real magic in enthusiasm. It spells the difference between mediocrity and accomplishment.” Norman Vincent Peale
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11
Vision
People will rally around the a solid and clear vision. The leader must not only have a vision, but must also articulate it well. People will follow a vision that is larger than any one of them can achieve.
The most pathetic person in the world is some one who has sight but no vision. Helen Keller
Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. Proverbs 29:18
Compassion
People will be drawn to leaders with compassion. Leaders need to care about those they are leading. They need to have compassion for those are serving with them. Leaders need compassion for those they are serving through their ministry or their organization.
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. Plato
Compassion will cure more sins than condemnation. H. W. Beecher
When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Matthew 9:36
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