"On Being a Leader for God" by Warren W. Wiersbe

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Warren W. Wiersbe. On Being a Leader for God. Baker Books, 2011. 144 pgs. 

I have posted quotes from Warren Wiersbe before. Here is a man experienced in ministry, having served for over 60 years, offering his advice on being a leader for God. Wiersbe begins his book by defining leadership: "Christian leaders are people who, by faith, willingly use their character, abilities, authority, and opportunities to serve others and to help them reach their fullest potential, to their benefit, the benefit of the organization, and the glory of God." He then spends the rest of the book exploring each part of this definition in detail. 

I have long been a fan of On Being a Servant of God by Wiersbe. It is one of the books I try to give to people starting out in ministry and I make all of my interns read it. I was pleased to find that this companion volume, which compliments Servant without repeating it, will be going on that same list. Wiersbe offers good thoughts and advice on a broad array of topics to do with leadership. This is not an in depth textbook exploring the issues, theological, practical, or otherwise, but, instead, it is a series of reflections on being a godly leader. As that, it is well worth reading.

A few quotes to whet your appetite. In speaking of Jesus as a CEO, a concept which Wiersbe disagrees with, Wiersbe notes that "Nobody ever called Jesus 'boss,' because His title was always 'Lord' - and it still is." He urges Christian leaders to turn to God first, not the wisdom of this world: "If Christians are to make a difference in this world, they must avoid thinking like the world and imitating the world. Right planning and right serving begin with right thinking, and right thinking comes from the wisdom of God." 

In another chapter, Wiersbe offers this excellent quote from Markings by Dag Hammarskjold: "Your position never gives you the right to command. It only imposes on you the duty of so living your life that others can receive your orders without being humiliated." Wiersbe concludes: "Ponder that statement." Indeed. 

Conclusion: 5 Stars. No, this book will not tell you everything you need to know about leadership. Instead, it is an excellent book on thinking rightly about leadership and focusing on God. A must read, especially for those just starting out. 

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

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