The Household of God

September 23, 2022

By Katie Pearson

“If I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.” 1 Timothy 3:15

Every member of God’s household is invited to accept the high call of servant leadership, but few do. What about you? Have you disqualified yourself based on mistakes in your past or shortcomings in your life? In Leading with a Limp, Dan Allender writes:

“Anyone who wrestles with an uncertain future on behalf of others—anyone who uses her gifts, talents, and skills to influence the direction of others for the greater good—is a leader. No one is a mere follower. If you are a follower of God, for instance, then you are called to lead. Every believer is called to help someone grow into maturity—and such is the core calling of a leader.”

It may surprise you that your unique combination of spiritual gifting, life experiences, vocational skills, core values, and natural talents have divine purpose. This is your unique leadership profile. Thank God for these gifts, then tune your conscience to the Holy Spirit and bend your will in obedience to God’s plans for your life. This includes pursuing a servant-leadership lifestyle. Respond wholeheartedly to the Lord’s call and use your gifts to “serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (1 Peter 4:10).

Several years ago, I was responsible for building a ministry leadership team to lead small groups at Christ-centered retreats. Many of the women I selected were reluctant because they believed that leaders had to fit a certain mold and possess particular gifts, such as charisma and an aptitude for public speaking. I explained to them that I would teach them small group dynamics and train them to skillfully orchestrate a safe and sacred experience, but I selected them for their character and their willingness to be transformed into the likeness of Christ. Over time I had the privilege of watching the Holy Spirit shape them into empowered servant leaders and prepare them to step into greater roles with holy confidence and great joy.

What’s the cause or concern that sparks your heart? Often, that’s a clue to what God is calling you to invest in. Ministry can look like caring for your children, running a company, or serving coffee at Starbucks. Do some soul-seeking, then go wherever you are called and focus on developing godly character. Start with integrity, which is the quality of wholeheartedly living what you believe, especially when no one is looking or listening. Become accountable to God at all times, in all places. He will use you in magnificent ways. Next, be humble and teachable. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you through prayer, God’s Word, other people, and even circumstances to guide your path and infuse you with grace. Finally, trust God that wherever he calls you, He will equip you. Be willing to go outside your comfort zone and lead with courage, faith, and love!

Reflection: Lord Jesus, please give me your heart for leadership. Wherever my life leads me, wherever you call me, may my greatest desire be to point others to the way, the truth, and the life! We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Recommended Resource:

Why is trust so difficult? Unlike all the broken promises of this world, God’s redeeming promises are absolute, trustworthy, and true. The covenants of God afford us with abundant reasons to trust God with his plan for our lives. Trusting God: Redeeming Promises of the Word small group Bible study explores the six major redeeming promises of God found in his Word. Learn more about God’s commitment to his people, the nature of a covenant, and how you can find your security in being a child of God’s redeeming promises. Learn more about God’s promises today.