Hallmarks of a Leader

What makes a leader - intelligence, integrity, imagination, dynamism, skill or statesmanship?

None of these.

It’s the fact that a person has a following.

Read Mark 4:35-41…

I would now like to spotlight some distinctive features of a good leader:

[1] He gives direction. A good leader will find a way forwards, and his first task will be to define the mission. He will always generate a sense of direction - no matter what the circumstances. Anyone can steer the ship when the sea is calm, but it takes a true leader to navigate through a raging sea. This may involve identifying new objectives and new goals.

[2] He gives inspiration. A good leader is linked to inspiration, he creates energy in others by distilling purpose. The words and example of a leader kindle the motivation - the moving energy - already present in each individual. A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessary want to go, but ought to be.

[3] He gives enthusiasm. A good leader is always truly enthusiastic about whatever he is involved in. In fact, his enthusiasm is contagious and draws people into a positive frame of mind. When writing to the Corinthians, Paul said this, “I know your willingness, about which I boast of you ..., and you enthusiasm has stirred up the majority” [2 Corinthians 9:2]. Enthusiasm stirs up those you come into contact with.

[4] He is a positive example. Leadership is example. A good leader will lead from the front and be a positive example to all you choose to follow him. Philippians 3:17 declares, “Join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.”

[5] He is trustworthy. A good leader can always be relied upon. He breeds confidence in his followers because of his dependableness. Paul especially commended “the faithful ministers in the Lord” [Ephesians 6:21]. Doing God’s work may take some time and this requires the leader to remain steadfast and faithful. An effective leader will concentrate on the things that he is able to change (ever if it takes much longer); but an ineffective leader will spend his energy on things he is very unlikely to change.

[6] He is called of God. A good leader will have God’s hand on his life and this will be evident in everything he does. The fruits of his calling will be also be unmistakable. A leader’s words and actions will reveal his heart and his motive. “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things” [Matthew 12:35]. Don’t be influenced by personality but rather be influenced by Godly character.

Chris Demetriou, 23/07/2006