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Leader's Spotlight

Who Is a Leader?

By Arlene Allen

Introducing Arlene Allen! Arlene is the national director of Women's Ministries for the Assemblies of God. She brings to her office more than 35 years of experience leading women. Arlene also served as a Women's Ministries coordinator for her local church, a sectional Women's Ministries representative and the district Women's Ministries director in Illinois. She has a genuine compassion for women in every facet of life, as well as a desire to see every woman fulfill God's call. See Arlene's heart for Women's Ministries leaders in the article below.

A young pastor officiated the funeral of a war veteran. The dead man's military friends wished to have a part in the service at the funeral home. They requested that the pastor escort them to the casket, stand for a moment of remembrance, then lead them out a side door. This he proceeded to do, but unfortunately, the dignified effect was somewhat marred when the pastor chose the wrong door. They marched with military precision into the broom closet, in full view of the mourners, beating a hasty retreat cloaked with confusion.

This true story illustrates a few cardinal rules. If you lead, make sure you know where you're going. Second, if you are going to follow, make sure you follow someone who knows where she is going.

What makes a good leader? First she must be a good thinker, which is often a difficult assignment. Conceiving a good plan is usually far more challenging than carrying it out. Being told what to do is easier than crafting the initial plan.

The second important attribute of a good leader is good listening skills. Many leaders tend to be better talkers than listeners. When listening, pay attention to ideas, not just facts. Listening only to facts often prevents a grasp of the speaker's intended meaning. Try to stay interested in what a person is saying, even if the delivery is boring or wordy.  

A 21st-century leader must also lead by example. The right attitude is imperative. Attitude is more important than past laurels, education, money, circumstances, failures, successes or what other people think or say about you. Daily, we choose the attitude we embrace. Take charge of your attitude!

A good leader must be a servant. A leader motivates others to serve by demonstrating her willingness to personally serve. I'm afraid that many believe service means "serve us" or "serve me." Be willing to work alongside those with whom you work.

Servants, take heart! God will provide all a leader needs. He will help and encourage you in every way possible!

 

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ARLENE ALLEN is national director of the national Women's Department and editor in chief of WTOnline.