Christian Leadership Requires True G-R-I-T

by Rod Hall

The Bible is full of instructions and examples of what God expects of leaders in the Church. A simple acronym summarizes many of these principles: G-R-I-T.

Grace—God's favor. A fundamental principle of Christian leadership is having God's grace. Grace can apply to God's unmerited forgiveness or to His favor. Without God's backing, our efforts become just human efforts. When we have God's favor, backing and blessing, we can more readily exercise His will. We are seeking first His Kingdom, looking to Him for guidance and desiring to serve others (Matthew 6:33; Psalm 32:8-9). Having God's favor requires humility. "God resists the proud, but gives grace [favor] to the humble" (James 4:6, emphasis added throughout).

Relate. A good leader listens, relates and responds to others, considering their personality style, interests, perspectives and needs. A good leader is effective at adapting to others much like a chameleon. This can create empathy and insight. Paul instructed Timothy not to approach everyone the same. "Do not rebuke an older man, but exhort him as a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, with all purity. Honor widows who are really widows" (1 Timothy 5:1-3).

Initiative. Effective leaders can spot what needs to be done and look to God and those over them in authority for guidance in accomplishing it. They take initiative even if they do not have a position or title and will not get the credit (Matthew 6:3-4).

The apostle Paul took initiative when following God's calling to go to the gentiles, making three extensive tours over several years. His determination helped him overcome many obstacles along the way (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). He also took the initiative of writing many letters to the congregations, writing more instruction that was later included in the New Testament than any other author.

Teach. Paul told Timothy a good leader is "able to teach" (1 Timothy 3:1-3). The foundation for what is taught needs to be based on solid biblical principles, not just personal preferences or opinions (1 Timothy 1:3-4; Hebrews 5:12-14). A big part of teaching involves setting a good example. Paul instructed Timothy, "Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity" (1 Timothy 4:12). A good teacher must be teachable. Not a "lord it over" know-it-all, but a servant willing to take input, advice and help from others (Matthew 20:25-28; 1 Peter 5:5).

When you lead, do you do it with true GRIT?