Standing In The Gap | Brian Friedl

John Maxwell, in his Leadership Reading Plan shares the following qualities of a leader obtained from Ezekiel 22:

1 Consecration: They set themselves apart and remain committed to their call.

2 Discipline: They do what is right even when it is difficult.

3 Servanthood: They model a selfless life, lived for the benefit of others.

4 Vision: They see what God sees and live off the power of potential.

5 Compassion: Love for their cause and their people moves them to action.

6 Trustworthiness: They keep their word regardless of what others do.

7 Decisiveness: They make good decisions in a timely manner.

8 Wisdom: They think like God thinks and avoid impetuous moves.

9 Courage: They take risks for what is right.

10 Passion: They demonstrate enthusiasm for their divine calling.

Ezekiel contrasts a poor leader vs. the one who stands in the gap. There’s always someone watching and ready to follow and though you may not feel like you’re currently in a position of leadership, you have been called to make disciples(Matt. 28:16-20). You were rescued for a reason and that reason includes, loving, serving, leading (discipline)others, and standing in the gap for them.

Reflection

Which one of these leadership qualities are you the strongest at?

Which one is your weakest?

Be intentional about developing your skills in each of these areas. Dive deep into His word and look at leaders in the Bible to examine how they lead. Which areas were they strong/weak in. What was the result?

What’s one action you can take today to strengthen your leadership skills?

Prayer

Father, You know Our strengths and weaknesses. You have called us to be disciple-makers and leaders. Teach and grow us into the leaders You desire us to be, through Your Word. Refine us according to Your perfect plans. Guide us, that we may stand in the gap and lead Your people well. In Jesus’ name, Amen!