What comes to mind when you think of a great leader? 

A general? 

A gifted orator? 

A visionary CEO?

A Different Picture of Leadership

Here’s an interesting twist:  Do you think of a shepherd?  God does!  Sounds strange, I know, but God has a different point of view when it comes to leadership, especially leadership in the church.

“Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5:2-3

Shepherding isn’t exactly glamorous.  But the safety and welfare of the flock are literally in his hands.  It’s the shepherd’s job to guide the flock to water and good pastureland.  The shepherd must also protect the sheep from any threats, sometimes sacrificially.  Long, hard days and keeping vigil at night.  The sheep are the shepherd’s first priority.

A Shepherd's Heart

So what’s the point?  God is more concerned with a leader’s heart than his resume.  God wants a Christian leader to have a shepherd’s heart—loving, caring and courageous, having an attitude of selfless devotion to God and to the people He’s put under his charge!