Sometimes, the desperation to sit among the influential pushes young people to misbehave. The desire for fame can erode the self-respect we possess. For favours, we trade away our dignity, and for recognition, we drift from the truth. Imagine a young leader being used as an instrument of violence simply to secure a position for another, or a young woman sacrificing her dignity merely to dine with people of influence.
These realities bring us to a fundamental question: Who is a leader, especially the kind of leader God expects?
Romans 13:1 reminds us, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
A leader is simply someone who leads. Leadership involves guiding, directing, influencing, inspiring, nurturing, and serving people towards a common purpose. A leader may use this influence for good or for evil—leading people either towards progress or destruction.
The Bible provides clear examples. God appointed Saul as Israel’s first king, yet because of his disobedience, David became the king after God’s own heart. Likewise, Daniel 4:17 declares, “The Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes and sets over them the lowliest of people.”
Ultimately, leadership is not merely attained by human effort; it is a divine trust granted by God.
Lessons for the Next Leader
The next generation of leaders must intentionally cultivate the following qualities:
Humility | Vision | Decisiveness | Proper Branding | Building a Solid Foundation | Integrity | Self-Respect
1. Humility
A leader deserves honour but must never become consumed by pride. Humility recognises that those you lead often possess ideas, skills, and perspectives that contribute to success. Great leadership is not built on arrogance but on teachability and mutual respect.
2. Vision
Leadership begins with vision. A leader without vision is like a ship without a compass. Every aspiring leader should develop a vision that is SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Vision provides direction, inspires people, and gives purpose to every decision.
3. Decisiveness
Every leader must possess the courage to make sound decisions. Decisions require wisdom, responsibility, and conviction. Know where you belong, what you stand for, and the values you will never compromise. Decisions rooted in strong principles stand the test of time.
4. Proper Branding
In today’s digital age, your reputation matters. The internet never forgets, and people are always watching. The next leader must intentionally build a personal brand that reflects discipline, modesty, and excellence. Your appearance, speech, and conduct should consistently communicate dignity and respect. Indeed, there is wisdom in the saying that people often address you according to how you present yourself.
5. Building A Solid Foundation
Every lasting leader is built upon a strong foundation—academically, socially, spiritually, and morally. Education equips the mind, while spiritual growth strengthens character. Hosea 4:6 says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
A leader must therefore be committed to lifelong learning, reading widely, understanding the failures of past leadership, and preparing wisely for future responsibilities.
6. Integrity
Integrity is the anchor of true leadership. Aposte Dr. Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, aptly said, “Integrity is doing what is right even when no one is watching.”
One of the greatest challenges facing leadership today is hypocrisy—appearing righteous in public while living differently in private. The next leader must reject this pattern and become a person of unquestionable character.
7. Self-Respect
Finally, every leader must possess genuine self-respect. Self-respect is not arrogance; it is recognising your God-given worth and conducting yourself with dignity. It means refusing to compromise your values, your purity, or your convictions for temporary gain, popularity, or personal favours. A respected leader first learns to respect themselves.
Conclusion
Leadership is more than holding a position; it is leaving behind a legacy that positively transforms lives. Therefore, do not simply aspire to become a leader—strive to become a good and godly leader.
Job 12:23 reminds us, “He makes nations great, and destroys them; he enlarges nations, and disperses them.”
God remains the One who raises leaders and brings them down according to His sovereign will. Success in leadership, therefore, requires not only competence but also God’s grace and divine appointment.
As the next leader, always seek to follow God’s direction. Lead with humility, integrity, wisdom, and courage. Never run ahead of God—walk with Him, and allow Him to lead you as you lead others.
Written by Deaconess Theodora Mireku-Boateng, (Vice President, NASPA-Ahafo Ano North Municipality)
