Spirituality is a prerequisite for effective cell leaders. I’m not referring here to a super spirituality, which characterizes certain high-minded people. We are all aware of those who use their “spirituality” to mask deep-seated pride. Rather, I’m talking about a humble dependence on God. I’m referring to a person who truly believes “that apart from Him, we can do nothing.”
Ray Prior, the president of the Borden Corporation, one of the largest business structures in America, was asked how he led such a large corporation. He answered, “Each morning when I wake up, I meet with the Lord and begin to listen to His voice. In that period of time, I ask Him to bring to my mind the needs of the key men who report directly to me. As I think about their weaknesses, I plan my day.” Let’s follow the example of Ray Prior, staying in tune moment by moment with Jesus Christ.
Jesus tells us that the Father is looking for such worshipers (John 4:24). Effective leaders understand that the most important preparation for the leader before the cell meeting begins is to wait in His presence. As the leader waits in the listening room, he or she will receive direct orders from God. Lesson preparation is important, but spiritual preparation comes first. More important than time spent pouring over the cell lesson is quality time with God. I agree with Icenogle when he says, “The hope for healthy Christian small groups lies in group leaders who ‘are willing to be led’ by the Spirit…” Cell leaders must lead the group in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Overcoming the Obstacles
Anyone studying leadership in the Old Testament is obliged to take note of the life of Nehemiah. Notice some key principles from Nehemiah’s life:
- Passion for the glory of God (v. 1:4)
- Dynamic life of prayer (vv. 1:5-11)
- Willingness to fulfill his own prayer (vv. 1:11; 4:8-9)
- Sacrificial life (vv. :1-7)
- Wise plans (vv. 2:4-7)
- Contagious vision (vv. 2:17-18; 4:1-14)
- Just life (vv. 5:1-13)
- Ministry of teaching (vv. 8:9, 18)
- Hatred of sin (v. 13:25)
Nehemiah possessed God’s passion, was willing to get involved, knew where to go, how to get it done, and was able to motivate people toward the fulfillment of his goal. His leadership transformed a depressed and oppressed group of God’s people into a lightning task force, capable of accomplishing God’s purpose.
Yet, if I could pinpoint the most important trait from the life of Nehemiah, it would be the ability to overcome obstacles. Trials and tribulations piled up against Nehemiah–to the point of trouncing him. Yet, we read how he overcame them time and time again. He was so consumed by his God-given task and vision that he never allowed obstacles and difficulties to deter him.
Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” Nehemiah lived in the midst of adversity but he faced it, confronted, and triumphed over it. Cell leadership can learn from his example.
Miriam Richards is the leader of a young professional’s group. As a single mother, she has many personal obstacles to overcome—long work days and endless motherly responsibilities. Yet, she doesn’t allow the very real obstacles to stop her from effective cell leadership. She sees them as a stepping-stone. “Cell leadership has done wonders for me,” she told us during one leadership meeting. “Each week, I’m forced to depend upon God as I prepare. I’m dependent on Him to help me find solutions to the needs of my group.” Miriam leads a solid, growing group in which two atheists regularly attend.
