The 6 Habits of Spiritually Mature Leaders
Spiritual maturity might be the most crucial aspect of effective leadership, particularly in faith-based contexts. It is also a significantly missing attribute in far too many organizations, including the American church.
Here are six habits that characterize spiritually mature leaders, along with guidance on how to cultivate these habits in your own life.
“The spiritual leader should outpace the rest of the organization, above all, in spiritual matters.” – J. Oswald Sanders
Regular Prayer and Meditation
Spiritually mature leaders prioritize communication with God through prayer and meditation. They understand the importance of seeking divine guidance and wisdom. I must admit, this is my greatest challenge. For many of us, performance, perfection and productivity keep us from learning a lesson from Mary and Martha. (Luke 10)
“Pray without ceasing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17
How to develop this habit:
- Set aside a dedicated time and location each day for prayer and reflection
- Use prayer journaling to deepen your connection with God – This is a commitment that changed my entire prayer life
- Practice mindfulness and meditation on Scripture – I use SoulSpace each day to help focus and quiet my soul
Continuous Learning and Growth
Mature spiritual leaders are lifelong learners, constantly seeking to deepen their understanding of faith and leadership principles.
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15
How to develop this habit:
- Engage in regular Bible study – It isn’t about time, but consistency
- Attend workshops and seminars on spiritual leadership – never replace worship with conferences
- Enlist a coach or mentor – you’ll thank me later
- Read books on theology and leadership – invest in reading regularly
“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” – John F. Kennedy
Servant Leadership
Spiritually mature leaders embody the principle of servant leadership, putting the needs of others before their own. I’d love to say that I’ve always practiced this. The truth is that I grew (slowly) into this understanding. It will change your life in every good way!
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” – Matthew 20:26
How to develop this habit:
- Look for opportunities to serve others in your community – it’s rarely the big acts of service, but rather, the small consistent acts that have the greatest impact
- Practice active listening and empathy – again, not my strongest skillset, but age has helped me in this effort
- Prioritize the growth and well-being of those you lead – ask yourself this question – am I making the people around me better, worse, or no different?
Integrity and Accountability
Leaders with spiritual maturity maintain high ethical standards and welcome accountability from others. Years ago, Focus on the Family researched 400 leaders that had “fallen morally” and discovered one commonality among them – a lack of accountability. OUCH!
“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” – Proverbs 11:3
How to develop this habit:
- Establish a personal code of ethics – write it down!
- Seek out an accountability partner or mentor – allow them and others to challenge you
- Be transparent in your actions and decision-making
Humility and Teachability
Spiritually mature leaders remain humble and open to learning from others, regardless of their position or experience. This is never about looking like a leader. This is all about modeling leadership from the very core of your soul.
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
How to develop this habit:
- Regularly seek feedback from others – be aggressive with this effort!
- Admit when you’re wrong or don’t know something – this is both freeing and endearing
- Celebrate the successes and contributions of your team members – you’ll be genuinely appreciated for your sincere appreciation
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” – C.S. Lewis
Emotional Intelligence and Self-awareness
Mature spiritual leaders possess high emotional intelligence and a deep understanding of their own strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. Invest in several assessments that reveal both how you see yourself, and how others experience you.
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” – Psalm 139:23
How to develop this habit:
- Practice regular self-reflection – being honest about who you are and what you are becoming is radically freeing
- Seek honest feedback from trusted friends or colleagues
- Engage in personality assessments and emotional intelligence training – use multi assessments
Developing these habits takes time, effort, and intentionality. By focusing on these areas of spiritual and personal growth, you can cultivate greater spiritual maturity in your leadership. Remember that spiritual growth is a lifelong journey, and even the most mature leaders continue to learn and develop throughout their lives. Never stop striving to instigate better!
Go in Peace, Chuck
