In 2014 I wrote a blog called, “7 things a spiritual leader DOES NOT do.” The post did so well I decided to write a complimentary post to highlight the seven signs of a spiritual leader.
Spiritual leadership is not an option in the Christian marriage. There is no opting out of the role God has placed on you as the husband. You may not be leading well but do not be mistaken you are spiritually leading your family. Now, whether or not you are leading your family to be stronger or weaker in the Lord, that is a different question altogether.
In this post, I am going to take the seven no-no’s from the previous post and show their contrast.
Here are seven signs a spiritual leader.
- A spiritual leader is generous and encourages his family to be as well!
Generosity is a true sign of the spirit lead. Consider What the Bible says about this.”Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” – Proverbs 11:25″Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7 “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” – Ephesians 5:1-2This last verse being the most powerful in teaching us that as we imitate God we will give like God. God showed the most generosity to the world in paying the highest price for our souls, sacrificing his Only-begotten Son to pay for our sins. That is true generosity, giving to those who cannot repay. We can lead in this in a few ways. We can first and foremost be generous in our time, love and attention to our wife and children. Then we can be generous to those around us who need our help, time, talents and money. - A spiritual leader encourages and uplifts.
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
As my wife and I have been seeking wise and godly counsel on our parenting we have been learning a lot about this idea of speaking words of affirmation and encouragement. One phrase that we hear often is this, “90% encouragement and affirmation, 10% Correction and discipline.” In parenting, and in marriage this can be very quickly reversed but we must realize that our words are powerful and can make or break a person. How much more powerful do you think they are to our wife and kids?
“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” – Proverbs 16:24
- A spiritual leader leads by example.
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” – James 1:22
We must be willing to do what the Word says if we are to expect our wife and children to do the same. If you want your wife to respect you, then you better be walking out your part of Ephesians 5:25. If you want your kids to honor their mother, then you better honor her first.
- A spiritual leader knows the Word and teaches it to his children.
“You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you are sitting in your house, and when you are walking by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” – Deuteronomy 11:19
Yes, our wives will play an enormous role in spiritual and scriptural teaching to your children but you are the one commanded by God to be the main spiritual influence in your kids lives.
- A spiritual leader has an even temperament.
“Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.” – Proverbs 17:27
There is only one time in scripture that you see Jesus, our great example, loose his cool. It’s when he goes into the house of God and overturns the money changing tables and whips out the hypocrites. Even then, Jesus was constrained and in fully in control of his limbs and mind. As Christian men and as spiritual leaders we must have full control of our temper and spirit.
“Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” – Proverbs 16:32
- A spiritual leader controls his tongue.
“If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” – James 1:26 - A spiritual leader Seeks after God and his kingdom.
Do you want to lead your family? Do you want to protect them and see them prosper? THEN SEEK AFTER GOD WITH EVERYTHING YOU’VE GOT.“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33
Of course, there is so much more that goes into being a spiritual leader but this would be a good place to start.
I believe in you and know that God has an amazing plan for you and your marriage. Stay strong in the spirit of God my friends.
Is there anything you would like to add to this list? Please let us know in the comments.
