As pastors and church leaders, one of our key responsibilities is to identify and develop leaders within our congregation. Leadership in the church is not just about fulfilling roles; it’s about embodying qualities that align with our values and vision. Below are ten essential qualities to look for in potential leaders within your church. These traits will help ensure that the individuals you empower can effectively contribute to the growth and spiritual health of your ministry.

1. Positiveness: The ability to work with and see people and situations in a positive way.

A potential leader should have an optimistic outlook, even in challenging situations. Positiveness isn’t about ignoring problems but about maintaining a hopeful attitude that inspires others. This quality is crucial for fostering a healthy environment where team members feel valued and encouraged to bring their best to the table.

Scriptural Insight: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8 NIV)

2. Servanthood: The willingness to submit, play team ball, and follow the leader.

True leadership begins with servanthood. A potential leader must be willing to serve others, put the needs of the church first, and follow the direction of the senior leadership. This quality is essential because it ensures that the leader is not seeking power but is genuinely committed to the mission of the church.

Scriptural Insight: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11 NIV)

3. Growth Potential: A hunger for personal growth and development; the ability to keep growing as the job expands.

Church leadership roles often evolve over time. A leader must demonstrate a willingness to learn and grow continuously. This hunger for development is a sign of a healthy and adaptable leader who can handle new challenges as the ministry grows.

Scriptural Insight: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18 NIV)

4. Follow-Through: The determination to get the job done completely and with consistency.

A leader’s reliability is often tested by their ability to see tasks through to completion. Follow-through reflects a commitment to excellence and consistency, which is vital for maintaining trust within the team and ensuring the church’s objectives are met.

Scriptural Insight: “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2 NIV)

5. Loyalty: The willingness to always put the leader and the organization above personal desires.

Loyalty is the bedrock of any successful leadership team. A potential leader must exhibit unwavering loyalty to the vision of the church and its leadership. This quality fosters unity and ensures that personal agendas do not undermine the church’s mission.

Scriptural Insight: “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17 NIV)

6. Resiliency: The ability to bounce back when problems arise.

In ministry, challenges are inevitable. A resilient leader can recover quickly from setbacks, showing persistence and grace under pressure. Resiliency is vital for sustaining long-term ministry, as it reflects a leader’s faith and determination to overcome obstacles.

Scriptural Insight: “But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13 NIV)

7. Integrity: Trustworthiness and solid character; consistent words and walk.

Integrity is non-negotiable in church leadership. A leader must be trustworthy, with a character that is above reproach. This quality ensures that their actions align with their words, building confidence among the congregation and leadership.

Scriptural Insight: “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” (Proverbs 11:3 NIV)

8. “Big Picture” Mindset: The ability to see the whole organization and all of its needs.

A potential leader should not only focus on their immediate responsibilities but also understand how their role fits into the broader mission of the church. This “big picture” mindset helps leaders make decisions that benefit the entire congregation, not just their specific area of ministry.

Scriptural Insight: “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” (Proverbs 29:18 KJV)

9. Discipline: The willingness to do what is required regardless of personal mood.

Discipline is the foundation of consistent leadership. A leader must be willing to fulfill their duties even when they don’t feel like it. This quality ensures that the church’s needs are met consistently and that the leader sets a strong example for others to follow.

Scriptural Insight: “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” (Hebrews 12:11 NIV)

10. Gratitude: An attitude of thankfulness that becomes a way of life.

Gratitude is an essential quality that shapes a leader’s outlook and interactions. A grateful leader recognizes the blessings in their life and ministry, which fosters a positive atmosphere and encourages others to develop a similar attitude of thankfulness.

Scriptural Insight: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)

When looking for potential leaders in your congregation, consider these qualities as a guide. A leader who embodies these traits will not only contribute to the growth of your church but also help create a community that reflects Jesus's love and purpose.

For more resources on leadership development, visit Preachit.org.