The role of the lead pastor of the church is an incredibly demanding and fulfilling position. A pastor is continuously called upon to perform a number of different functions in his or her church.
There are people within the church who have many different views and expectations of what their pastor should be like. Embracing these expectations and views will determine how every worship service will go and how powerful each sermon can be.
Here are a few skills that can help make any pastor successful and demonstrate church leadership
Positive Attitude
Pastors face the same obstacles and barriers as everyone else, yet they somehow continue to be empowering and optimistic. Even in the face of tremendous challenges, they believe that God can and will alter the outcome of the current circumstances. Keeping a positive attitude in the face of all challenges will prove an extremely important and beneficial skill.
Vision
The pastor is chosen to be an innovative leader who’s responsible for bringing new ideas to the church. Leaders see things that others do not see. They see opportunities to grow, they solve problems before they even occur, and they think strategically. A great pastor should aim to find the good and potential in others when others do not see it themselves.
Passion
A pastor often displays their love and passion by giving back to the church community. Pastors truly believe in what they are doing, and their ability to inspire others with their faith and compassion is contagious. They are passionate in what they believe in and work hard to spread their passion.
Communication
Pastors have the ability to communicate their vision and goals in a way that is clear and compelling. They love their people and are able to express that. They are confident and comfortable with who they are, which allows them to be comfortable with others. They make eye contact, and they work hard at remembering everybody’s names. Regardless of what is going on, great pastors always find a way to connect with those around them.
Encouraging
Great leaders know how to encourage others. They constantly praise others and build them up. They love to help others succeed and be their best. They exercise restraint in criticism, but pursue praise and encouragement. Pastors strive to find ways to encourage and strengthen their members who need guidance and spiritual advice.
Perseverance
Great leaders never give up on anything critical without a fight. They know that there will always be roadblocks to accomplishing great things. They don’t run over people, but they are also not deterred at the first sign of conflict. They don’t allow temporary setbacks and defeats to determine their future
Humble
Everyone has a temper, but a great leader will know how to defuse and remain calm in all situations. A good pastor must be humble and show no gloating. People of their community may view them as a spiritual director whom can be called on at anytime for any reason, for help and counsel, and for any personal situation. This can be difficult, but it is important that a great pastor strives to put the needs of others before their own.
