Lead/Follow

When I was in college, my concept of being a leader is the one who strive the best in academics, always getting the highest score in every exam, achieving perfect score in laboratory activities and famous. I had the chance to study in two colleges at the same time and I was juggling my schedule. I was the class president for three years, leader in student council, editor in chief of school publication, president of writer's club and summa cum laude. At that time, I felt so powerful and I can get whatever I want. But these concepts change as I started to know Him more.

Being a leader comes with a lot of sacrifices and should start from our very own ways, we should be a good FOLLOWER first. But first, we should be aware of whom we follow as a Christian, none other than our Lord Jesus Christ. As stated in John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep". I believe that in this verse, we can see the perfect description of a leader, the one who acts as a shepherd to those who "sheep" in his care. We, as His sheep should be a good follower, learn His ways, experience His presence, fulfill His plans, spread His goodness, make a disciple and abide His commandments.

So after being more matured if we feel that following Him is natural and that we are filled with love and care then that's the start to do the same to others in our very own ways, we can start to lead and of course, commit everything to Him and ask for guidance, strength and wisdom and always make Him as your example and perfect role model. As in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ". The Christian leader is one who follows Christ and inspires others to follow Him as well. As a Christian leader, it also serves as the feeder and nourisher of the sheep, and the ultimate "sheep food" is the word of God.

I remember before, I had a hard time following orders from my leaders as I used to give directions and commands before. But eventually, I overcame it and I realize that everything we do is for Him. The unwilling mind became a heart of a servant and every little things that I do for my lifegroup excites me. It started with bringing drinks, disposables, prepare games, organize events and be shepherd. Inch by inch, I was able to grasp the true meaning of leadership. It is not just about giving orders but caring and loving your people and make sacrifices, if needed in order to achieve the common goal. I have also observed that most of the Christian leaders also encounters difficulties such as problem in relationships with their people, misunderstanding, lack of motivation, poor communication, complaining and interpersonal conflict are common. But they were able to resolve it with His help and the factors that made them stronger leader. I have learned from them that Christian leadership must patient, motivational, inspirational, be loyal to and love their people, care for their needs, be fair and consistent in their treatments to their people and provide avenues for opportunity, advancement, rewards, and personal development.

So that's it, you don't have to be a summa cum laude to be a leader. You don't have to earn big salary or get 5 digits salary to be a leader. You don't have to be famous, you don't have to wear and own branded things. Just be yourself, be a good follower first and the rest will come naturally and spiritually. All praises to Him!