Dear Leader,

Leadership matters. It is listed in Scripture as a spiritual gift (Romans 12:8), and there are books in the Bible dedicated to what happens when God-empowered leadership is embraced (Ezra, Nehemiah, Judges, Esther). God has called you and raised you up for the purpose of making a difference for his kingdom.

You are going to have to make hard decisions that will sometimes cause you to be unpopular and misunderstood. Remember, the Bible says that fear of man is a snare that leads to a place you do not desire to be (Proverbs 29:25). Also remember that if it is your goal to be popular, understood, and loved by everyone then it is impossible to do so and be a fully devoted follower of Jesus (Galatians 1:10). Many people see the problems, but very few actually possess the courage to do something about it. That is why God has called, equipped, and empowered you to do what you do.

God Has Not Called You to Do This Alone

One of the most amazing things about leadership is that the Lord will surround you with men and women to come alongside to serve with you and help you do all that God has placed in your heart. Listen to other people (Proverbs 15:22) and understand that being the leader does not mean that you are the smartest person in the room! When you believe that, it’s over. The smart people will leave and eventually, over time, you will be the smartest person in the room in a room full of morons! Ask for help often, which doesn’t mean you’re weak, but it actually communicates to those you lead that you are strong!

Remember, he who has called you is with you.

You are going to get hurt. All great leaders do. People you thought loved and cared about you will turn on you, attack you, and make false accusations against you. This will cause tremendous amounts of insecurity, pain, and frustration; however, don’t allow one person cause you to believe that everyone you have around you will eventually betray you. I’ve seen so many leaders isolate themselves because of things like this happening, and it just isn’t necessary. The only reason that you believe leadership is lonely is because you have most likely chosen to isolate yourself.

Your Character Can Never Be Compromised

Don’t feel the need to waste time responding to every critic. Life is too short and hell is too hot for you to have a conversation with people who have a history of attacking others and who make ridiculous accusations against you, but have never even taken the time to try to get to know you (Nehemiah 6:1–4). Don't obsess over what they say about you. My friend Craig Groeschel says, “Becoming obsessed with what people think about me is the quickest way to forget what God thinks about me.”

He has called you to fear no one or nothing but him.

Pay the price to grow and develop as a leader (Proverbs 4:7). Don’t always expect everyone to hand you something for free.  Conferences cost money! Books cost money! Quit complaining about the cost! Great leaders never whine!

And remember, he who has called you is with you. He will never leave you. He will finish what he's begun (Philippians 1:6). He has called you to fear no one or nothing but him (2 Timothy 1:7). Don't give up, and don't give in (Galatians 6:9). 

Article posted with permission from Catalyst. Don't miss Catalyst West in Orange County, CA from April 18–20.