Mentorship & Discipleship: Making the Choice to Lead by Example
Have you ever considered the gift God has given each of us to influence and impact others? Most people primarily think of mentorship and discipleship in a formal sense, but everyone has the potential to be a guide for someone else.
Think for a moment about your daily life. You likely interact at home, work, and possibly in your community. In those spaces, there is someone who gleans from your thoughts or simply how you conduct yourself. That person may be your child who tries to wear your shoes or put on your makeup, a peer who loves to pick your brain about ideas, or someone younger who enjoys being in your presence.
Leading by example involves living out what you desire to pass on. Every action, no matter how small, can influence those around you. By embodying Christ-like behavior, you can become a beacon of faith, light, and love, guiding others through your actions more powerfully than words alone.
What Does It Mean to Lead by Example?
When we consider certain roles like being a parent or ministry leader, our focus may lean toward verbally communicating what we are trying to teach or correct. While this is necessary but the actions we demonstrate hold great significance.
In 1 Corinthians 11:1 (ESV) Paul says “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” Paul encouraged those he spiritually led to follow his actions. He wasn’t asking them to follow every action but those that reflected him following Jesus.
Paul understood that part of his assignment as a disciple of Christ was to model what that a Christ-centered life looked like. We don’t have to be apostles or have a platform to do the same. Leading by example requires an awareness of our power to influence. It involves being mindful of what we model daily through our behavior, reactions, faith, and more.
Practical Tips for Leading by Example
Leading by example is more than just a concept; it involves concrete actions that reflect our faith and values in everyday life. Here are some practical tips to help you embody this principle effectively through your character:
Consistency: Strive for consistency in your actions and words, ensuring they align with your faith and values.
Integrity: Act with integrity, even when no one is watching. Your authenticity will inspire trust and respect.
Empathy: Show empathy and understanding in your interactions. This reflects Christ’s love and compassion.
Continuous Growth: Commit to your personal and spiritual growth. A leader who is always learning and growing sets a powerful example.
Service: Demonstrate a servant’s heart by helping and uplifting others. Service is a cornerstone of Christ-like leadership.
These tips guide us to becoming a more effective and inspiring leader by reflecting the values of a Christ-centered life in our daily actions.
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What Does God Say About Leading By Example?
Although words like "influence" or "impact" are not explicitly used, they are seen in action throughout the Bible. Whether it’s a situation like Moses and Joshua or Jesus and the Apostles, we see numerous examples where leadership makes a difference. Moses and Jesus both provided their followers with a vision and instructions on how to continue their work.
Jesus didn’t just influence those who walked on the earth with Him; He also laid down an example for believers to follow until His return. In John 13:15 (NIV), Jesus says to the disciples, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” Jesus’ life and ministry were a continual demonstration of servant leadership. He washed the disciples' feet (John 13:1-17), healed the sick, and taught with authority and compassion. His actions provided a template for the Apostles and all believers. He modeled the actions and life that we should live, confirming that leadership is more about action than speech.
Moses did the same for Joshua and that generation. Moses mentored Joshua, preparing him to lead the Israelites. Moses' example of faith and obedience to God provided Joshua with a model to follow. In Deuteronomy 31:7-8, Moses encourages Joshua, showing the importance of passing on leadership and faith. Sharing the vision and guidance from God ensures His plan continues from one generation to another.
Additional examples in the Bible include people like Ruth. Ruth's loyalty to Naomi, her mother-in-law, and her integrity in difficult circumstances reflect the qualities of a godly leader. Her story shows how faithfulness can lead to God's provision and blessing. To this day, women remain hopeful that a Boaz will show up in their lives, inspired by Ruth's story.
In the New Testament, Paul provides an example through his relationship to Timothy. Paul mentored Timothy, guiding him in faith and ministry. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul instructs Timothy to entrust the teachings to reliable people who will also be able to teach others. This illustrates the ripple effect of leading by example.
Leading by example, according to biblical principles, means embodying the teachings and values of Christ in our actions. It’s about living out our faith in a way that others can follow, ensuring the continuation of God’s work through generations.
How Can We Effectively Mentor and Disciple Others?
As Christian women we have the unique opportunity to lead and guide others through daily living and faith. Here are some effective things we can do to effectively mentor and disciple others:
1. Embrace Servant Leadership
True mentorship starts with a heart of service. Just as Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, we should be willing to serve those we mentor, putting their needs above our own and demonstrating humility and love.
2. Live Authentically
Authenticity is crucial. Be open about your own faith journey, including your struggles and victories. Transparency builds trust and shows that growth is a continual process for all believers.
3. Invest Time and Energy
Discipleship requires a commitment of time and energy. If you disciple and mentor in a formal setting like providing a service or being a leader in ministry or work, have regular meetings, whether in person or virtually. In those spaces provide consistent support and accountability. Be present during those encounters so your mentee feels valued.
4. Provide Spiritual Guidance
Guide your mentee through scripture, prayer, and spiritual disciplines. Encourage them to seek God’s wisdom and direction in all aspects of their life, helping them to deepen their relationship with Christ.
5. Encourage Personal Growth
Help your mentee identify their God-given gifts and talents. Support their personal and professional development by providing resources, encouragement, and opportunities for growth.
6. Model Christ-like Behavior
Your actions speak louder than words. Model Christ-like behavior in all you do, showing grace, patience, kindness, and integrity. Your example will inspire and guide your mentee.
7. Build a Supportive Community
Create an environment where your mentee feels supported and connected. Encourage them to build relationships with other believers, fostering a community of mutual growth and encouragement.
8. Remain Open to God
It’s no coincidence the paths God allows us to cross with others. Staying open to God’s guidance is crucial, as He can use you in various ways throughout your life journey. Being receptive to His direction helps you discern how best to support and mentor those He brings into your life, ensuring your actions align with His will and purpose.
Leading by example in mentorship and discipleship not only transforms the lives of those we mentor but also strengthens our own faith journey. It shifts our focus from ourselves to others, embodying the selfless love of Christ. As we commit to growing in and modeling Christ, we find our own faith deepening.
The beauty of leading by example is its accessibility; anyone, at any stage of their faith journey, can inspire and influence others. By living out our faith authentically, we create ripples of positive impact that extend far beyond our immediate circles.
By integrating these principles into our daily lives, we not only fulfill our calling as disciples of Christ but also help build a strong, faith-filled community. Whether you are guiding a single individual or a large group, remember that your actions speak volumes. Embrace the responsibility and privilege of leading by example, and watch how God uses you to inspire and transform lives.
