What qualifies you to be a leader is your willingness and desire to be an example. Knowing how to be a good role model is more important than talent. First Timothy 4:12 says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.”
Titus 2:7-8 says, “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness, and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.”
Children need role models, and so do the adults we lead and the staff we direct! Most importantly, we should be an example of Jesus and follow Him. Salvation is the starting place, not the end. The Great Commission isn’t to go make decisions but disciples. It’s simple: We must be a disciple to make disciples.
Holiness in Action
Followers are more than believers; they’re also doers of the Word. John 14:15 is very clear. Jesus says, “If you love me, you will obey what I command.”
Whatever requirements our church has for leaders and volunteers, we should model in our own lives. I desire that my life and choices show repentance, plus agreement with my church’s Statement of Faith. (Agreement means practice.) It’s always the correct choice to practice what we preach, to live the Bible 24/7!
To me, holiness is not just saying no to wrong things. It’s saying yes to the right things. Knowing how to be a good role model involves being a giver. Make it a practice to run from the appearance of evil just like the real thing.
4 Key Steps for How to Be a Good Role Model
1. Leaders must have their home life in order.
Leaders must get your own house in order before trying to lead others. Are you willing to not just talk about integrity but live it? This kind of leader knows how to be a good role model and is worthy of imitation.
If you’ve read my books, you know I believe your family is your greatest sermon. I love Proverbs 28:2; it says “When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a man of understanding and knowledge maintains order.” This begins with evaluating daily if Christ is truly king of our hearts and choices. A question I ask myself regularly: “Have I ever been more in love with Jesus than I am right now?” If I can ever say yes, I fix it!
