The 100 Characteristics of a Real Christian Leader - Part III: From the Book of Nehemiah
This is Part III in our 100 Characteristics of a Real Christian Leader based on the biblical character, Nehemiah. He was the consummate leader. Let’s pick up here:
23. A Real Christian Leader is Bold, not Timid (Nehemiah 2:4-5)
He has a holy boldness when it comes to the things of God.
24. A Real Christian Leader Knows when to Keep Silent (Nehemiah 2:12)
He knew there were times when nothing said is the best.
25. A Real Christian Leader Gathers Information to Make Good Decisions (Nehemiah 2:11-16)
With more light comes better decisions.
26. A Real Christian Leader Defines the Problem Specifically (Nehemiah 2:11-17).
The problem is to know what the problem is. With the problem defined, the solution is simpler.
27. A Real Christian Leader Gets a Word from God Before Going Forward (Nehemiah 2:12).
Those in godly authority get a word from the Word before going forward.
28. A Real Christian Leader Leads by Example (Nehemiah 2:17; 4:21-23).
“Nothing is more infectious as example” (Charles Kingsley).
29. A Real Christian Leader is Solution-Centered, Not Problem-Centered (Nehemiah 2:17).
Leaders traffic in solutions.
30. A Real Christian Leader is Decisive (Nehemiah 2:17).
Leaders make decisions and move forward. They are not paralyzed by the fear of hurting someone’s feelings.
31. A Real Christian Leader is Realistic (Nehemiah 2:17).
He doesn’t pretend everything is fine when it isn’t. He is real and transparent.
32. A Real Christian Leader Possesses Passion (Nehemiah 2:17)
Jim Elliot said, “Wherever you are, be all there. Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God.” Enthusiasm makes all the difference.
33. A Real Christian Leader Sets Goals (Nehemiah 2:17).
Goals are dreams with a deadline.
34. A Real Christian Leader is a Motivator (Nehemiah 2:18).
Attempt something so big for God it is destined to fail unless God does it.
35. A Real Christian Leader is a Communicator—Keeping People in the Know that Need to Know (Nehemiah 2:18).
36. A Real Christian Leader Expects Criticism (Nehemiah 2:19).
Critics most often accuse others to excuse themselves.
37. A Real Christian Leader Exercises Faith (Nehemiah 2:20)
“True faith goes into operation when there are no answers” (Elizabeth Elliot).
38. A Real Christian Leader Has a Positive Attitude (Nehemiah 2:20).
Nehemiah had a “can do” attitude.
39. A Real Christian Leader has Uncompromising Convictions (Nehemiah 2:20).
Nehemiah stood on his convictions; his set of beliefs based on God’s Word.
40. A Real Christian Leader Delegates Some Responsibilities (Nehemiah 3:1-32).
Leadership is discovering the things that only you can do and letting what others can do better do it.
