Timothy's Leadership Musts (Pt. 1)

Today, I am starting a Wednesday series on absolute leadership musts as set forth by Paul to Timothy in 1Timothy.

"Not the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach." 1 Timothy 3:2

Embedded within this popular leadership verse are seven qualities that EVERY leader must have within the church.

1. Above Reproach. This is the basic golden standard for leadership. Leaders need to live a life that is transparent and rich in doing what is right. Being above reproach means living a life that no one can seriously object to morally or spiritually.

2. Husband of One Wife. This quality should be easy and obvious; however, it is anything but that in today's culture. Leaders are to have one wife and only one wife. Beyond that, they should never let any other woman/man come close to fulfilling any role intended for his/her spouse.

3. Temperate. A leader must not be quick to anger. He must be able to keep a level head even in the face of immense difficulty and trial.

4. Self-controlled. Leaders must not be blown by their every fleshly desire. In tandem with being temperate, the leader must have the ability to realize what is good and helpful and what desires need to by triumphed for the greater good.

5. Respectable. If you are in a leadership position, but aren't respected by those you are leading, you most likely will not be leading very long. To lead well, people need to respect and place their trust in you as their leader.

6. Hospitable. Kind. Gentle. Easy to get along with. In all these instances, the leader needs to be a person that is inviting for others to confide in and talk to.

7. Able to Teach. Leading people from one place to the next almost always involves education. Many resist being moved from where they are to where the leader wants to go only because they are not educated enough on where they are going. Leaders that can teach and give great vision will see much greater success.

This short list of leadership qualities is a difficult list. In many ways, it shows me the many areas I still need to grow in to become a better leader.

Which of these 7 qualities comes easiest and hardest to you? Comment below.