Chapter 8—Leadership
Working for God in a lowly station helps prepare one for pas-
toral leadership—Brethren, treat men as men, not as servants to be
ordered about at your pleasure. He who indulges a harsh, overbearing
spirit might better become a tender of sheep as did Moses, and thus
learn what it means to be a true shepherd. Moses gained in Egypt an
experience as a mighty statesman and as a leader of the armies, but he
did not there learn the lessons essential for true greatness. He needed
an experience in more humble duties, that he might become a care-
taker, tender toward every living thing. In keeping the flocks of Jethro
his sympathies were called out to the sheep and lambs, and he learned
to guard these creatures of God with the gentlest care. Although their
voice could never complain of mistreatment, yet their attitude might
show much. God cares for all the creatures He has made. In working
for God in this lowly station, Moses learned to be a tender shepherd
for Israel.—
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 262, 263
.
Leadership necessitates gaining the confidence of those for
whom you labor—In order for a man to become a successful minister,
something more than book knowledge is essential. The laborer for
souls needs integrity, intelligence, industry, energy, and tact. All these
are highly essential for the success of a minister of Christ. No man
with these qualifications can be inferior, but will have commanding
influence. Unless the laborer in God’s cause can gain the confidence of
those for whom he is laboring, he can do but little good.—
Testimonies
for the Church 3:553
.
Do not lead with harshness and severity, but with respect,
kindness, confidence, and love—You do not feel under sound obli-
gation to God to be patient and kind and respectful toward your min-
istering brethren and toward every member of the church. They lose
confidence in you and then your influence is crippled. You need the
kindness, courtesy, meekness, and lowliness of Christ. You have many
valuable qualifications that can be perfected for highest service if
sanctified to God. You should feel the necessity of approaching your
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