What makes a person a great leader? Is it the commanding presence of George Washington, the powerful voice of Churchill, the charisma of Reagan, or the composed demeanor of Thatcher? While these qualities certainly enhance leadership, they are not what defines it.  

At its core, great leadership is simple: you must L.E.A.D. to be a great leader!

L – Learner

A leader who stops learning has already stopped leading. Learning and listening go hand in hand, but that doesn’t mean a leader must entertain every complaint. Instead, great leaders stay in touch with their team and the overall climate of their organization.  

When I first came to Faith, I had a lot to learn. One of the loudest and most consistent concerns I heard was about our unsafe playground. Rather than dismissing it, I listened. Our next fundraiser was dedicated solely to installing a new playground set. Ten years later, it’s still enduring recesses well!  

On the other hand, leaders who fail to listen fail to lead. A perfect example is Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. During a recent photo-op, a steelworker rejected the donuts offered to him and instead voiced his frustration about high taxes and the rising cost of living. “You’re not really doing anything for us, Justin,” he said—a sentiment shared by many Canadians who felt unheard.  
 

E – Example

“Do as I say, not as I do” is a leadership philosophy doomed to fail. A true leader sets the standard through personal example, being the first to step up, work hard, and face challenges head-on.  

Leading by example requires a leader to be involved in his business or organization.  A true leader cannot hide. We are held to a higher standard.   If that seems unfair, then leadership may not be for you. Like it or not, our words and actions are constantly being watched and weighed, and we must be willing to meet and accept that challenge daily.  

A – Assertive

Confidence is a non-negotiable trait of effective leadership.

 I had tons of confidence before I became a senior pastor.  After that, I struggled.  I went from making suggestions to significant decisions in one Sunday.  Decisions that would ultimately affect hundreds of people. I could have done a much better job of leading with confidence early on in my ministry.      

True leaders are not afraid to make necessary changes, even when they come with risks. Many leaders hesitate so long that by the time they act, it’s too late. Growth requires change, and organizations that resist it will stagnate. At Faith, our staff, job descriptions, and operational strategies are constantly evolving—not for the sake of change itself, but to stay ahead and succeed.  

One must go in order to avoid the status quo.  

D – Disciple

Leadership isn’t just about personal success—it’s about raising up the next generation. To disciple those under us, we must be present in their lives, investing in their growth.  

John Maxwell said it best:  

 “Leaders create and inspire new leaders by instilling faith in their leadership abilities and helping them develop and hone leadership skills they don’t know they possess.
There is no success without a successor.”  

This is why I’m passionate about mentoring. I’ve written a book to help young leaders grow, and I dedicate as much time as possible to pouring into them. But if we want to see the next generation rise up, we must first be willing as leaders to L.E.A.D.  

Are you ready to lead well? It starts with learning, setting an example, leading with confidence, and discipling the next generation. Let’s commit to being the leaders God has called us to be.