The Maxwell Leadership Reading PlanSample

Leaders Are Not Perfect, but Whole

God does not expect leaders to be perfect, but to be whole. Have you appreciated the enormous difference? To have integrity means to be whole, as in a whole number (an “integer”). Despite his or her human frailties, a leader can effectively guide those who follow.

Psalm 32:8 reminds us that leaders must closely observe the flock for its needs and problems. God expects spiritual leaders to serve as guides. A guide gets a person or group safely to a planned destination. The Hebrew word for “guide” gives us several clues as to what God expects from those He uses as leaders:

1. A guide is a spiritual head who unites and directs people in their walk with God.
2. A guide takes people on the straight path that leads to fellowship with God.
3. A guide gives accurate and godly counsel to those who need it.
4. A guide leads with gentleness and trustworthiness, making others feel safe.
5. A guide bases his or her direction on the Spirit and the Word of God.