You could hold an executive role of ten team members or you could hold a leadership position in a big corporation. Whichever it may be, one can still foster the qualities of a leader in a Christian workplace.
Through following the teaching and the leadership style of Jesus Christ, an effective leader can perform his or her managerial responsibilities without resorting to authoritarianism and overly critical and condescending methods. While you might find it a struggle to uphold your Christian values and tenets when faced with overwhelming duties, always remember that it is possible to exhibit Christian leadership qualities at home, at church, in the community, and most importantly, in the workplace.
Here at Ripple, we recognize the importance of the essence of Christian leadership in the Christian workplace. To guide you in becoming a Christian Leader at work, these Biblical passages will help you understand the qualities of a Christ-centered leader:
1. A leader is fair.
The credibility of a leader should be attributed to his or her tendency to uphold truth and fairness among all members of the organization. Proverbs 29:14 explains that leaders anchored on honesty and truth are forever appreciated and their legacy remains known even after their reign. If a king judges the poor with truth, His throne will be established forever. (Proverbs 29:14)
2. A leader encourages and listens.
Rather than looking down on people and thinking highly of themselves, Christian leaders prioritize the interest and the welfare of the majority above all others. Philippians 2:3-4 emphasizes that leaders adhering to the values of Christ should uplift others and hear the wishes of their constituents. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. (Philippians 2:3-4)
3. A leader has a teachable heart.
A good Christian leader understands that correction is part of good leadership. He or she knows that allowing criticism can lead to growth and that learning from feedback can push you to greater heights. Proverbs 12:1 explains that: Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.
4. A leader reciprocates.
A follower of Christ knows how and when to use rewards and incentives. When a person is performing well, a Christian leader does not hesitate to reward them, be it in the form of an incentive bonus, promotion, or any other rewards. Similarly, the opposite follows the same logic as mentioned in Matthew 7:12 that states: So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
5. A leader is grateful.
Philemon 4:6 says: Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. One lesson that Christian leaders should know is to never take all the credit for themselves as a Child of God shall always be thankful for all the contributions made by their constituents.
6. A leader seeks spiritual guidance.
Christian leaders understand that the strength of man is limited. As such, leaders should never solely rely on themselves for they are faithful and they realize that there is a greater being in power that keeps their feet grounded. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5)
IN A NUTSHELL
By adhering to Christ's teachings in the workplace, a Christian leader can accomplish his or her responsibilities at work while fulfilling his or her duties as a Child of God. Once you embody the values of Christ and manifest it in your leadership style, you become able to serve as a role model to other people working for and with you.
More elaborate description of true and effective leadership are present in countless Biblical passages. Through regular and deep comprehension of the Word of God, you can transform your vision in carrying out your leadership in your Christian workplace.
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