LEADING YOURSELF

In his excellent book, “Gospel-Driven Ministry,” Jared Wilson stresses that pastors are leaders and effective leadership begins with leading ourselves. 

He writes:

You cannot effectively lead others if you do not conscientiously lead yourself. The pastor who is subject to his week, who routinely has ministry “happen” to him, is not evidencing the fruit of self-control or the spirit of discipline. 

Pastors should take inventory of their weekly schedules. Does it reveal that we say yes (or no) to too much? Does it show that we are disorganized people, always playing catch-up? 

Do you devote time not just to study God’s Word, but to read books—theology, spirituality, history, biography, even fiction and poetry? Do you stretch yourself in your reading, working different mental and emotional muscles? Do you go to conferences or access other resources for pastors that might challenge and inspire you? It’s a cliché, of course, but it’s a cliché because it’s true: leaders are learners. 

In your personal relationships, do you stew, grumble, and internally process to the exclusion of other’s needs to talk and listen? Would your wife or closest friends say you’re great with communication? Do you manage your household well? 

The answers to these questions help reveal the quality of your self-leadership. Even more telling is your commitment to the spiritual disciplines of Bible study, prayer, fasting, service, and generosity. For the same reason we should dismiss the gluttonous preacher who rails against others’ lack of self-control; the pastor who does not show personal discipline and commitment should not expect others to follow his leadership. “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ,” Paul says (1 Cor 11:1 ESV). To be a good leader, one must be a good follower. To be a gospel-driven leader, one must first be an attentive follower of the heart of Jesus. (pp. 147-148, Kindle edition)