Be More than a Leader—Be a FRIEND

Effective leaders value people. Romans 12:10 encourages us to “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.” We have a responsibility to befriend those we lead. Here are a few reminders to help in this process.

Expect nothing in return—By accepting others unconditionally, we give room for the Holy Spirit to work freely in and through us. Remember, “We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Show a genuine interest in others—Begin by being considerate. Then, look for the best in others. Make an effort to learn what is happening in the lives of those you lead. Galatians 6:2 tells us to “Share each other’s troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ.”

Take time to understand others—People are as unique as snowflakes—no two are ever alike. With such variety, we should take time to appreciate the differences in one another. So be patient and keep learning!

Learn the art of listening—Hearing is one thing; listening is quite another. Listening requires focus and attention. Listening also means we care enough to comprehend what the other person is actually saying.

Treat everyone equally—James asks, “My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim that you have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people more than others?” (James 2:1). True friendship shows no favoritism.

Be an encourager —Hebrews 10:24 says we are to “Consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” Encouragement is powerful, and when used correctly it frequently produces positive results. Give encouragement liberally.

Show you care—Don’t just say you care—show you care. Actions speak volumes. Make it a point to give a hug, remember a name, give a card or note, open a door, pray for and with a friend, ask about her and listen to her answer.

Emphasize the positive—Philippians 4:8 instructs us to fix our thoughts on what is true, good, and right. We are to think about what is pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. As we do, we recognize characteristics in our friends for which we can praise God and be glad.

— Arlene Allen
[http://womensministriesunlimited.ag.org]




Traits in Leadership

by Ellen White

Kindness: The Power of Kindness—We may never know until the judgment the influence of a kind, considerate course of action to the inconsistent, the unreasonable, and unworthy. Christian Leadership 7.1.

Humility: God Exalts the Humble—He is most fit to carry responsibilities and command who most resembles God in Character, – in goodness, mercy, and staunch loyalty to the cause and work of God. Letter 39, 1898, p.13.

Integrity: Position does not Make the Man. It is the integrity of character, the spirit of Christ that makes him thankful, unselfish, without partiality and without hypocrisy – it is this that is value with God. Testimonies to Ministers, 356.

Influence: Every word spoken, every work performed, will have an influence that corresponds to influence of heaven. Review and Herald, April 28, 1903.

Trusting God: To wait patiently, to trust when everything looks dark, is the lesson that the leaders in God’s work need to learn. Heaven will not fail them in their day of adversity. Prophets and Kings, 174.



Leadership Certification Level 4

The fourth and final level of the GC Women’s Ministries Leadership Certification Series is now available. Level 4 was developed especially for leaders who are mentoring other leaders. If you are a local church leader who would like to train the women in your church, you can use this material to encourage them to become leaders.

Order from: www.Adventsource.org
(800) 328-0525

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