There are many types of leaders. Some excel in politics, while others excel in business. But what our society needs in this day and age is a spiritual leader. Do you have what it takes to be a spiritual leader? Learn what spiritual leadership is and the characteristics you should have to cultivate this skill. 

What is Spiritual Leadership?

By combining the spiritual and natural characteristics, you have to positively influence believers of God, which is what spiritual leadership means. Having spiritual leadership is crucial to helping other people achieve their purpose in the life of God. 

Remember that spiritual and natural traits are equally important. You can’t be a spiritual leader if you only utilize your natural leadership skills. And note that your natural characteristics are “innate” in the way God has given them to you. 

A spiritual leader should be spiritual in the first place so they can use special procedures to achieve the goal of God. Otherwise, they won’t be able to perform God’s work. 

Are We Lacking Spiritual Leaders?

The past 2000 years saw a crisis in spiritual leadership. According to Jesus, “The harvest is plenty, but the laborers are few.” In other words, God’s blessings are not lacking. If you ever feel like the world is terrible, it’s not because God has forgotten about us. It’s because no one will lead us to receive these blessings. 

More laborers and leaders are needed to help harvest the crops or blessings God gives. The demand for spiritual leaders is high because they are more than just political or charismatic leaders. They may be change agents, intelligent, and goal-driven too. However, they should have the appropriate methods and motives guided by the Holy Spirit.  

The Reward of a Spiritual Leader

“Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more” – Luke 12:48

A spiritual leader cares for the people whom God loves. Once Jesus returns, they will be rewarded. Meanwhile, an unfaithful leader, which the Bible story describes as one who “beats the household servants and gets drunk,” will be subject to harsh judgment. 

Values of a Spiritual Leader 

Do you have what it takes to be a spiritual leader? Here are some values you should possess so you can be trained to be one. 

Humility

One of the essential characteristics of a spiritual leader is humility. In different Bible verses, the leader is also called a servant. For example:

“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave–just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:24-28

Wisdom to Understand the Scripture

No matter what form of ministry they are taking on, a spiritual leader’s love for people and duty is based on a thorough understanding of God’s word. Aside from knowing the content and story, they should also have a solid interpretation and communication of the Bible. 

Love for People 

Love for God cannot occur without a genuine love for His people. Our goal is to be as loving, generous, and kind as Jesus, who has an evident drive to serve everyone, regardless of their societal position. 

Commitment

“Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” – James 3:1

Commitment is easy if you don’t encounter problems in your task. But in spiritual leadership, many people will judge you based on very high standards. Remember that with great responsibility comes greater expectations from people and God himself. You will be hated, disobeyed, and betrayed the way Jesus was, but staying devoted to your responsibility will make or break the people. 

Has an Excellent Home Life

A godly family and marriage are key to becoming a spiritual leader. Such solid relationships are strong indicators of their connection with God. In other words, their family or home is the “basic unit,” “foundation,” or “proving ground” for leadership.