Are leaders born or trained? Moses was most likely born to lead. He was adopted as a prince; fled and became a lowly shepherd in his father-in-law’s estate and later reluctantly assumed leadership of the Israelites when he was 80 years old. A group of fishermen, on the other hand, were discipled by the Master and became apostles. Whether they were born or trained to be used by God, they had a common trait – they responded to God’s calling.
Godly leadership starts with obedience to serve and making oneself available to be used.
Not many are special like Moses. Most are like you and me who received equal training opportunities through the pulpit sermons; talks, self study, and devotional time spent with the Lord – but who made themselves available to serve and lead.
Leadership is important at many levels – but at the heart of leadership is servanthood. “To each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.” (Ephesians 4:7) “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)
I thank all parents who model godly leadership at home. Many of us come to church and know about God in our childhood/youth through our parents. Through the fun time as children listening to Bible stories to the rebellious ways of our teenage years, we were gradually touched by God and eventually formed a relationship with Him. We now have 3rd and 4th generation Christian children growing up in our midst. Praise the Lord!
I also want to take this opportunity to thank the Small Group (SG) leaders. If they had not responded to the call to serve, our intentional discipleship process would have stuttered. Each leads with a different style but all are serious in their endeavour to bring out the elements of P.A.G.E. in their groups. To ensure growth in individuals and the overall process, it is hoped that SG members, having spent time together, will catch the leadership model and step up to serve.
In a vibrant and healthy church environment, there must be leadership renewal at all levels. It is very natural that leadership be replicated and duplicated.
God qualifies those He calls to serve. Everyone is called and gifted in some way to serve, some in leadership.
Moses though reluctant, responded. The fishermen who followed Jesus caught the leadership model and responded. May you respond as faithful stewards of God’s grace and gifts to you – serve as a leader or in other ways to build up the Body of Christ. God bless.
By Shi Pau Soon, Elder (YCKC Bulletin 19&20 October 2013)