Last Monday, I wrote about the importance of understanding the motivational gifts given to each believer by Jesus Christ. Knowledge of our individual motivational gifts combined with application of that knowledge leads to harmony-both personal and interpersonal. Furthermore, beyond simply acknowledging our own motivational gift; we need to understand each gifts purpose, strengths, and pitfalls. We must be sensitive to how another’s motivational gift affects their perception of every situation; in contrast to our own. Furthermore, we need to be keenly aware of how our words and actions affect those around us, depending on their perspective. So, let us embark into a study of the various spiritual gifts; beginning with Leadership.
Before we discuss leadership: I do think it is important to review a few facts. In Christ Jesus, we are each given specific motivational gifts to assist in the furtherance of the church. Together we continue the work of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to a world in need. We do this by harmoniously joining hands, celebrating each others gifts with compassion, empathy and love. We need to humbly seek to lift each other up.
Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. 1 Corinthians 14:12
7 MOTIVATIONAL GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT
As outlined in Romans 12, the 7 Motivational Gifts are:
- Leadership (Organization)
- Service
- Mercy
- Giving (Money Management)
- Exhortation
- Teacher
- Prophecy (Justice)
So, let’s begin to explore the characteristics of these varying gifts; beginning with leadership.
LEADERSHIP (THE GIFT OF ORGANIZATION)
Those given the gift of leadership uniquely are able to see every project in its completed form. With clarity, they break down the steps needed to reach the goal. Recognizing the resources around them, they create a well-organized master plan. Recognizing they don’t need to perform every step; those gifted as leaders evaluate their resources. Assigning the best person for each task, the leader clearly sees other’s talents. Possessing loyalty, those with the gift of leadership demand loyalty in return. They quickly reject those who appear to have betrayed them. These leaders don’t want to hear any negativity; because, they clearly see the finished product. Neither do they have patience for hesitation or doubt. They emotionally detach themselves from the details, to keep the big picture in mind. Having outlined the process, they focus on the final product. Neither do they crumble in the face of criticism.
Misunderstood because of their intolerance of negativity; the leader is criticized as being insensitive. Those with the gift of leadership don’t want to hear about another’s excuses or frustration; because, the leader, himself or herself brushes aside their own emotions to focus on the goal. Therefore, they are often seen as cold and uncaring. While the truth is they do care. They know that completing the task brings security, peace and joy to everyone.
We need leaders in the church; otherwise, things would get stuck in unending committees never going anywhere. So, let us open our hearts to embrace the beauty of their gift; instead, of pushing them into solitude.
Contrast When In the Spirit and When Working in the Flesh
When walking in the spirit those with the gift of leadership demonstrate: orderliness, initiative (self-starters), responsibility, humility, decisiveness, determination and loyalty. In contrast, when they act out of the flesh; they become disorganized, apathetic, unreliable, prideful, indecisive, fainthearted and unfaithful.
DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS A LEADER?
Think of people in your family, your church, your job, your inner circle of friends, and your community. Try to recognize people with this motivational gift. Once identified, try to be sensitive to their aversion for negativity. Don’t be offended when they cannot listen to your woes and sorrows. Garner from their strengths; turning to them when you need to see the bigger picture. When the leader chooses you to perform a task; remember, they think you are the best. So, see it as an honor.
If Leadership is Your Motivational Gift
If you identify this as your motivational gift, ask God for the patience to deal with those who cannot see the big picture. Learn gentleness and kindness, leading the group with love. Thank God for your gift. Practice patience toward those less organized. When people need to pour out their hearts, listen at least long enough to determine who might be able to help them. Perhaps, you can refer them to others whose spiritual gifts will best help them. After all, you are best suited to identify who can accomplish that task. Keep in mind your greatest goal: spreading the gospel of Christ to all the world.
If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link, if you have a prayer request email me by clicking here or comment here
CONCLUDING TWEETS
[tweetthis]Understanding how those gifted as leaders are wired to think brings harmony[/tweetthis]
[bctt tweet=”We need leaders in the church otherwise we would be stuck in unending committees going no where” username=”effiedarlene”]
OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE
A Broken and Contrite Heart, I published in 2010, answers the question, “What do I do when I keep falling into the same sin? Does God hate me because I keep failing to get this right? So, where do I begin again and find joy in my salvation; after, falling. If you want to know more about this book or the other books I have written: You can find a link at: Book Resources.
©Effie Darlene Barba, 2017
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
The inscription I added; but the Photo by Chris Holgersson on Unsplash