Three Leadership Pitfalls To Avoid

Leaders are falling around the world each year.

While I am sure fallen leaders thought they would never descend from their lofty position, the Scripture still rings true, “So if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you do not fall (First Corinthians 10:12 NIV).”

As Christian leaders, what are some leadership pitfalls we can avoid so that we are not making the same mistakes others have made? Here are three Leadership Pitfalls to avoid.

1. Not Having Personal Quiet Time - This may seem simplistic, but not spending time in Bible Reading and Prayer can be a crucial leadership pitfall. Since a goal of leadership is to serve those we lead, we cannot serve completely without seeking God’s strength to lead each day. Peter said, “If anyone serves he should do so with the strength God provides so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ… (First Peter 4:11 NIV).” Our ultimate goal is for God to receive the glory in all that we do, so we must rely on His strength daily through prayer and trusting in His Word.
2. Not Respecting Others - Many leaders fall because of their sinful nature. Selfishness takes over and the desire to look out for only themselves is on full display. Paul writes to the church at Philippi, “In humility value others above yourselves (Philippians 2:3 NIV).” We are called to follow the model of servant leadership Jesus Christ displayed. He took upon Himself the form of a servant and became obedient unto death (Philippians 2:5-11). As we follow this model of servant leadership, we will not only be leading others in the workplace, but we will be leading others toward the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. Not Growing as a Leader - The final leadership pitfall to avoid is not growing as a leader. When we believe we have arrived, we have failed as a leader. Make plans today to grow as a leader. Learn more about your area of leadership through books; interview a colleague to gain insight in your specific field of ministry; listen to ministry podcasts; or take a course on LinkedIn. Proverbs 1:5 says, “Let the wise listen and add to their learning.”

As leaders, let’s not repeat the mistakes of the past. Let us grow in godliness, serve those we lead and learn more today than ever have before. More importantly as Christian leaders, let’s seek the glory of God in our leadership rather than our own glory.