The 4 Principles of Effective Leadership

by Patrice Tsague, NPIM

Moses' father-in-law replied, "What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone." Exodus 18:18-19

Does the world need another document written on leadership when so many people have written books on every dimension of leadership that one can find? I definitely claim no unique revelation, though I must obey my Father and bring out that which He has given me. The success of families, businesses and government depends solely on its leadership. There is no other greater position upon which rests the rise and fall of any institution. I believe that is why there can never be too much written or read on the subject, it is just that important.

Are Biblical Entrepreneurs leaders? If they are not then who else can be. There are two types of leaders; born leaders and learned leaders. Though there are very few born leaders, most individuals are in a position of leadership and as a result, must learn how to lead. Positions of leadership include; parents, older siblings, committee heads, heads of businesses or organizations, supervisors or managers, etc. All of us who find ourselves in any of these positions must take the responsibility to learn how to lead. As for Biblical Entrepreneurs, like Moses we are called to lead our employees, customers and community from the bondage of an economic system that puts money above God, greed above love, and profit above people. We are to lead them to a system that recognizes that God is the owner and sovereign ruler of the universe and we are stewards who must give Him an account for our service to humanity and our handling of His resources. Therefore as Jethro reminded Moses, we must be reminded that we cannot do it by ourselves. We must inspire the people around us to work with us to realize the vision the Lord has laid on our hearts.

Leadership is the ability to cast a clear vision and provide direction and guidance to others through your example and influence. In order to be an effective leader, there are four basic principles that you must continuously walk in. The principles are:


Leaders must serve - effective leadership begins with service. Every leader is a servant but every servant is not necessary a leader. To serve is to put the needs of others before your own. The distinction between a leader and a servant is: a servant is only responsible to fulfill an assignment or project while a leader must not only serve but also assume the position of authority and the responsibility of oversight. Faithful service leads to greater responsibilities.


Leaders must be responsible - as effective leaders serve faithfully, they are rewarded with greater responsibilities. To be responsible is to accept the demands to serve honorably without superior authority and oversight. Effective leaders do not need onsite supervision because they are always mindful of the responsibilities bestowed upon them. If a responsible leader is to be effective, he or she must delegate.


Leaders must delegate - A responsible leader is able to delegate effectively to ensure that work gets done without relinquishing his/her responsibility. The more faithful leaders are in their responsibilities, the more responsibilities they are given. Therefore the ability to delegate effectively is necessary for them to be able to handle their growing responsibilities. To delegate means to transfer the control of an assignment or project to someone, as well as the ability and authority to carry it out, without relinquishing your responsibility. Remember, you cannot delegate something you have not fully taken responsibility for and delegation does not relinquish you of your responsibilities. Effective delegation leads to accountability.


Leaders must be accountable and keep others accountable - Everyone is accountable to someone, effective leaders must give an account and they must demand account from those who report to them. To be accountable is to assume the responsibility to achieve certain goals and provide ongoing reports on the status of the goals. Without proper accountability, projects are incomplete and goals go unmet.


How effective are you in your current leadership of your staff and associates? Review each of these principles and allow the Lord to direct you on how you can improve on your current leadership.