01 September 2026 – Leaders not Managers – Part 6

1 Peter 5:2-3 Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don’t lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example.

Responsible leaders are consistent, circumspect and contemplative. They are predictable, organized and compassionate. “Leadership is taking responsibilities while others are giving excuses” – John C Maxwell. True leaders take responsibility while fake and fickle leaders blame. A responsible leader takes ownership of the outcomes, encourages and empowers. They are transparent, accountable and insightful.

Consistency compounds. David was a responsible leader who prioritized his flock over his feelings. He was predictable. He won 66 battles but every time there was a threat of an attack, his followers knew that David would first consult the Great Warrior, Jehovah Nissi, about the battle strategies. There was not a single battle David plunged into with his wisdom or potent. Even at a time of extreme personal pain and loss, he prioritized responsibility over his own grief. At Ziklag, they lost their wives, children and all their possessions. The 600 men with David turned around and blamed him and wanted to stone him. David was also grieving for his family as well, yet he sought the Lord for a deliverance plan and recovered the families and the fortune that was plundered by the raiders. David recovered everything the Amalekites had taken, including his two wives. Nothing was missing: young or old, boy or girl, plunder or anything else they had taken. David brought everything back (1 Samuel 30:18-19). David did not get bitter with the men who were embittered because of their loss. He did not blame them or rebuke them but responded responsibly.

We are leaders in our homes, churches and communities not by “position” but by “responsibilities”. Our duty to raise our children, run a family or organize a fundraiser are opportunities to be responsible leaders.       

Responsible Leaders:  

1. Consistent: Responsible leaders are consistent in their response to a challenge.
2. Circumspect: Responsible leaders are prudent in words and deeds.  
3. Contemplative: Responsible leaders prioritize their people above their problems.

Responsible leaders prioritize their people over their personal problems.

Prayer: Father God, teach me to respond as a responsible leader in all situations. Amen.