by Dr. Paul Chappell

"And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye."

Luke 6:41-42

Leadership does not dictate but humbly co-labors.

America has seen many different leaders and styles of leadership over the years. From the hands-on, go-getters like Herbert Hoover to the distrusting, manipulators; we've had many leaders over the years. But one President got it right when he described leadership to a group of people as the following:

"In order to be a leader a man must have followers. And to have followers, a man must have their confidence. Hence the supreme quality of a leader is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, on a football field, in an army, or in an office. If a man's associates find him guilty of phoniness, if they find that he lacks forthright integrity, he will fail. His teachings and actions must square with each other. The first great need, therefore, is integrity and high purpose."

Leaders are looked up to, respected, and expected to lead justly. While no leader is perfect, a leader is expected to lead with integrity and purpose. When thinking about godly leaders, Jesus points out the need of humility.

"And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye?" Godly leaders are not to judge, degrade, or look down on others. Leaders look only to themselves to make sure their lives line up with God's direction.

Too often leadership can puff up a person. Being in a position of authority can become an awful tool. But while some people would abuse their leadership and take on an "invincible" persona, God desires that you would lead in humility.

As 2 Peter 3:17-18 says, "Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." It's too easy for us as human beings to become prideful in a position of leadership. Often when we look more at the sins of others, we ignore our own sins.

As a godly leader, you'll be tempted to become prideful and degrading to others. Don't allow leadership to make you look down on others, but view them as fellow journeymen seeking to live like Christ. Daily examine your life for pride, and confess any sin God brings to light. No matter how much influence God gives you, remain humble and allow God to use you.

To learn more about the ministries of Lancaster Baptist Church and Pastor Chappell, please visit lancasterbaptist.org, paulchappell.com, or follow him on twitter.

Daily Bible Reading
Job 11-13 | Acts 9:1-21