Leadership Journal

It's part of our calling as leaders to spot and cultivate other potential leaders to serve God and use the gifts given them. There's also a side benefit: we end up finding people for the many ministries that always seem to be in need of leaders! But how do we spot them?

Melissa stepped forward to coordinate a Vacation Bible School program at her church. The need was announced, and no one else offered, so Melissa took charge. In a small church, she was able to produce a program that tripled the number of children who attended. Because of her leadership, the majority of the adults in the church came to help, even though many of them had to take time off from work.

Afterward, Melissa returned to obscurity. She helped out with background tasks, but didn't step forward to coordinate any teams.

"Melissa," I said, "I really think you have a gift for leadership."

Melissa laughed. "Oh no," she said. "Not me."

"Why don't you think you are a leader? You coordinated VBS. You were on the church council. You've led Bible studies. You definitely are a leader."

"Oh, that stuff? Anyone can do that." Undeveloped leaders may have the gift, but they don't even realize it. Many, like Melissa, need a good nudge to enter into leadership, and stay there.

How do we spot new leaders?? Start with prayer. Ask God to bring you to the right people and to help them to be available. Then search. Where do you look?

1. People already actively leading in ministry. The most effective leaders are those who have been sharpened through experience. "Natural leaders" are easy to spot: they usually talk about leadership or ministry direction. The thought of impacting people gets them excited. They enjoy facing a challenge and empowering people to meet it.

captionhough natural leaders may already be quite involved, if the leadership opportunity is in an area they are passionate about or feel called to, they will be willing to lead and reprioritize their other commitments.

2. People who are leaders at their work, but not at church. Sometimes those who are leaders do not realize the need for leadership within the church. They may be leaders in their career, but haven't stepped up to minister in the church.

Sometimes they mistakenly assume that only those with Bible degrees can be leaders, or that their skills are not needed, or that they are not called to serve. They need to have their misconceptions cleared up.

3. People with a passion. The best leaders are those who have a passion for what they are doing. They are naturally motivated and their enthusiasm spreads to others. If you're trying to find a leader, find someone with a passion for that area. Not every passionate person is a leader, but passion is an indicator of a good place to start.

4. People with a servant heart. Sometimes all you need is a situational leader, someone willing to step up on a temporary basis. Situational leaders arise because of their willingness to serve. They know that even though they may not be the most qualified, they'll lead because, otherwise, needs will not be met. Their motivation is not because they enjoy leadership, but because they know that service pleases the Lord.

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