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Christian leaders must be encouragers. To do so, we must consider two things: we must like and enjoy people and to like people, we must first like ourselves. The true basis for self-acceptance is a clear understanding and acceptance of the values and purposes God has for us.
"Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture" (Psalm 100:3). God designed us just the way we are with our own personal gifts. Read Psalm 139 and let the love and care of God saturate your life.
God does not want us to compare ourselves with others, and leaders should not make comparisons between those with whom they are working. God has given unique talents and abilities to each one.
The fear of other people's judgment often prevents us from being fruitful. "Be glad for all God is planning for you" (Romans 12:12, The Living Bible). "For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]" (Ephesians 2:10, The Amplified Bible).
When God's Word becomes the core of our thought life, there is a glow about us which attracts others. We must let the truth of the Scriptures permeate our entire beings. It's thrilling to witness the change that takes place in a person's life as she studies God's Word. Christian leaders need to saturate their lives with the Scriptures.
Too often we curtail our potential because we have developed a preconceived idea of our limitations. Preconceived growth by a person in any area—physical, intellectual, or spiritual—limits and ultimately cripples. We leaders need to expose ourselves to the unlimited gifts of God and work to make the most of the attributes and opportunities He gives.
The apostle Paul spoke of this very principle when he said, "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6).
Those in leadership need to look for opportunities to minister to hurting people with whom they work. Too often we get so engrossed in our work that we don't take the time to encourage or help those close to us who may be struggling. It's important to make it a part of our ministry to look for ways to help others.
Learn to express appreciation and approval by praising others frequently for a job well done. Everyone is grateful for special expressions of appreciation. A simple note, a word of praise, a compliment in the presence of others means more than we often realize—and it costs nothing. Your attitude toward those around you can increase their own self-esteem.
Criticism should always leave the person feeling she has been helped. Before giving criticism, look for something for which you can compliment the person.
Goethe said, "If you treat a man as he is, he will stay as he is. But if you treat him as if he were what he could be, he will become a better person." Concentrate on strengths and virtues, instead of weaknesses and faults. Expect the best in others—it's a self-fulfilling prophecy.
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