Jesus Style Leadership 1 - Call & GraceSýnishorn

Grace Means Mercy Not Merit

Leadership Lesson

Leaders recognize and appreciate God’s grace in accepting them and using them.

Read 1 Timothy 1:12-16

Comment

Having established God’s call to lead, we’re now going to focus on the central place that understanding and living grace plays in Christian leadership. God’s grace means “his undeserved favor towards us.” Grace involves mercy, not merit. Because of his grace, God treats us in wonderful ways that we do not deserve. Paul, as a leader, was heavily focused on God’s grace. He had been a violent opponent of followers of Jesus, sending many to jail and probably even death. No wonder he called himself the “worst of sinners.” Isn’t it incredible that God took someone like Paul who had done so much damage to His people, and not only welcomed Paul into His forever family but made him a significant leader in that family? Paul is such a great illustration of God’s grace. You’re the same. No matter what you have done or not done, God still wants to use you. You are an example of God’s grace. Grasping this will keep you grateful and humble as a leader.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for not only adopting me as your forever child but in your grace calling me to influence others. What a privilege you have given me. I am both deeply undeserving and incredibly thankful. Please may you show me off to those I influence as a sign of your wonderful grace.

Personal Reflection

Give a specific example of God’s grace at work in your life. How has God treated you in a way you haven’t deserved? Why do you think God has chosen to use you?