We Are All Leaders

by Molly Dillon / Keizer Campus Principal

As we begin this new season of life together it is important to keep at the forefront of our priorities the reality that we are all leaders. Leaders in our homes, our professions, our churches, coaching our kids, and ultimately as Christians. We may not have realized it, signed up for it, or necessarily agree to it, but nevertheless we are called. In our spheres of influence we are to lead others to Christ, and inspire those around us as Paul writes in Ephesians 4:1 “...to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” Minute by minute our lives should reflect that of the one who called us.

Over the summer I reflected on and thanked God for the many leaders He has strategically placed throughout my life. Their impact inspired me to search my Bible for wisdom in discovering the qualities God desires in all of His leaders. I immediately became intrigued by the journeys of Saul and David. Neither intentionally set out on a career path to leadership, yet both found themselves holding a crown, weighted with authority. Both shared the same God, and likely an equivalent number of failures, yet each had vastly different experiences based on their character.

Saul led by fear, caved under pressure, and chose not to take responsibility for his actions. His character exposed that he was more concerned about what others thought, than about what God thought. Conversely, David led with courage and extraordinary faith. He was a man who prayed continually, listened for God’s voice, and when caught in sin, he repented. Because of David’s love for God, obedience, and grateful attitude, he was deemed “a man after God’s own heart”. He was not without flaws, but allowed God to shape his character as a result of them.

What will be brought to light when, as leaders, we make a mistake or fail? Do our actions show a desire to please God above all else? Are the decisions we make based on a life humbly submitted to God’s ultimate authority, or do we merely allow God to be a part of our lives? The answers will reveal our character and our potential effectiveness as the leaders God calls us to be in this particular season of our lives.

May we all be leaders after God’s own heart.  

– Molly Dillon / Keizer Campus Principal