How to Lead with Willingness
We are all leaders in some manner or another. Some lead big companies and have a lot of people on their teams all working toward the same goal. Others are single and feel like they’re only leading themselves. And, of course, everything in between. When it comes down to it, we’re all influencing and leading someone (or multiple someones) in some way, shape or form. If we’re planning to lead, then let’s learn Biblical leadership in the manner that God describes so we can experience better relationships.
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5: 2-3 NIV
Shepherd Leadership in the Modern Workplace
You’ve heard it before, the idea of sheep and shepherds. The Lord is my shepherd, I am the good shepherd, for you like sheep going astray… tending to the flocks was big business back in Biblical times. And it was something that people understood, especially when making parallels to leadership – the shepherd leads his flocks. So, the bible is pretty good at using this metaphor, which we can sort of comprehend in the modern era. Let’s look a little closer.
In this context, we see that we’re supposed to shepherd God’s flocks. Just as God guides us, we guide others – protecting them, nurturing them, and encouraging them instead of commanding them.
Take a look at what servant leadership is all about. Contrast that with those bosses you’ve likely had that lead with authoritarian management styles.
Because we’re willing leaders, our motivation is the joy that we get when we guide others to do better and maximize their abilities.
The Heart Behind Biblical Leadership
It’s the thought that counts… right? Usually a statement that’s reserved for those who give a cheap gift, it’s more than justification for not plunking down the dough on a present.
The motivation behind leading a team (a family, a friend group, workplace teams, and more) should be because you want to, not because you have to. There are plenty of rewarding and fulfilling jobs out there that aren’t heavy on leadership, and when you’re leading a family, it should be because you want the best for them all.
In the world of entrepreneurship, are you working for the money, or for the outcome? Meaningful work allows you to pour yourself into it with passion, rather than chasing that profit. Now, profit is important, but it shouldn’t be the only thing or the most important thing.
Be an Example and Not a Dictator
God allows you to be in a position of power. How you flex that power is an important part of whether you’re a good leader or not. This passage talks about not pursuing dishonest gain, being eager to serve, not lording it over those entrusted to you, and being an example. Let’s take a look at some examples.
There have been plenty of leaders around the world who rule as a dictatorship. People follow them, obey the rules, because they’re fearful of the repercussions. But nobody likes those leaders. People despise them, and eventually those being led stage a coup and rise up.
The great leaders, however, are those that lead with integrity. They exude trust, they are kind, compassionate, and inspiring. Consider Fred Rogers. He was one of the calmest men around, and created an environment that nurtured love. When a person, or group, depicted him or the neighborhood negatively, his integrity and love had them quickly reconsidering their actions.
Living the Shepherd’s Mindset Beyond Business
You might be thinking, “That’s great, Scott, but I’m not an entrepreneur, I’m not a business owner… shoot, I’m not even in management!” And that’s where we can broaden these lessons to daily life.
At home, are you leading with patience and by example? If your kids are constantly on their devices, and you get after them to go spend some time outside. But every time they see you, you’re scrolling on your phone – are you leading with care?
In your friend group, there are probably some who are excelling, and some who are struggling. For those going through a lot, are you constantly trying to fix them? Or do you walk alongside them, offer empathy, and just act as their friend instead of offering advice?
Out in the community, are you chasing status, or service? Sometimes it’s hard not to be recognized for our efforts, but to be a true biblical leadership, volunteer without the need for recognition, mentor a young person, or just check in on your neighbors to see how they’re doing.
And remember, if you’re not taking care of yourself, you’ll struggle to care for others. Put your own oxygen mask on first. Maintain your prayer journal, read your Bible, ask God for guidance, and as your heart grows toward the Lord, you can help others grow as well.
Mentorship, Training, and Shepherding Don’t Have to Be In Person
As a writer, I’m all about expanding influence beyond borders. And I want to help you expand your influence as well.
With incredible ideas, thoughts, and goals, the world needs to hear what you have to say! And what a better way to do that than to become a published author. If you’re struggling with how to write a book, then you’re in luck! I’ll teach you exactly how to write your book so you can show off what you’re all about.
Learn more about the Author’s Mastery Academy, or just schedule a time to review it with me by choosing a time on my calendar below.