Are You a Spiritual Leader?

LACK OF spirituality can actually hinder the coming of the kingdom of God.

The word spiritual as defined in Webster's dictionary means "of the soul; influenced by the divine Spirit; holy." A spiritual leader is influenced by the divine Spirit, he is one who places the things of God—the things of the Spirit—before carnal or earthly considerations. In brief, he is a leader who makes Christ, through His Spirit, first, last, and best in everything.

A spiritual leader is one who is led by the Spirit. Paul speaks of men who are "led by the Spirit" (Gal. 5:18). In such a leader's life the Holy Spirit has gained the ascendancy. The converting power of the Holy Spirit has relegated the things of this world into second place. Jesus Christ occupies first place in every spiritual leader's life.

When the Spirit speaks the spiritual man obeys. His conscience is very tender to the appeals and to the demands of God's guiding voice. He does not pause to parley or negotiate with God. When God speaks the spiritual man follows. Without hesitation he declares, "Here am I, send me."

A spiritual leader with a spiritual out look does not need to talk about his spirituality. It will be evident to all. His life speaks loudly enough for all to hear and appreciate. He will make first things first in his ministry. The mechanics of leadership will receive proper attention, but they are secondary. Christ and His kingdom are first. In his experience there is "life service" as well as "lip service." When he speaks of "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance" (verses 22, 23) you know he is speaking from a personal experience—not merely what he has read or heard others talk about.

The spiritual leader concerns himself with the spiritual well-being of those with whom and for whom he serves. He prays with, as well as for, his workers. He speaks words of spiritual encouragement that lift those who have fallen and brings courage to those who are faint of heart. He is a tower of strength to those in need. He inspires the faltering member or worker with new hope, new vitality.

The spiritual leader takes a personal interest in the welfare of those who serve with him. He is not unmindful of the "little things" that sometimes make or break a man—that discourage or strengthen him. The spiritual leader is there when he is needed. He can be counted on. Those who know him well know they can depend upon him.

The spiritual leader commands the respect and confidence of his associates. When you are seriously ill and your life hangs in the balance you do not send for the most eloquent speaker or the clever jokester who shines in the circle of levity. You call for the spiritual leader. You have confidence in the prayers of the leader who you believe walks with God—whose prayers will rise, unhindered, to the throne of the Great Physician. You respect him. That respect and confidence are not misplaced.

A spiritual leader has "a reputation for gentleness" (Phil. 4:5, Phillips).* He is not harshly critical, nor given to fault finding. Your name, your reputation, and your personal problems are safe in his keeping. His Spirit-controlled tongue will not betray your confidence.

Since "lack ... of spirituality ... is hindering the coming of the kingdom of God" (Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 438), you and I need to examine our lives and assess our priorities to assure that we are not causing our Saviour's return to be delayed.

We must be spiritual leaders.