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Traits of a Secure Leader
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From the lives of Saul and David, we get a clear blueprint for the traits of a secure leader. Here are some key characteristics that secure leaders demonstrate:
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Servanthood
A secure leader sees him or herself as a servant first. Mark 10:45 reminds us that even Jesus, the Son of God, did not come to be served, but to serve. Servanthood is the willingness to do whatever is needed, even in the hidden and mundane tasks. Leaders like Elisha are great illustrations of this trait. Elisha served Elijah faithfully before stepping into his own prophetic ministry (2 Kings 3:11). Secure leaders don't view tasks as “beneath them” but see every act of service as an opportunity to bless others and bring value to the team.
Who, being in the very nature of God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death – even death on a cross.
Philippians 2:6-8
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Humility
Humility is at the heart of secure leadership. 1 Peter 5:5-6 instructs us to be “clothed with humility,” for God gives grace to the humble. Humility allows leaders to be teachable and open to correction. A secure leader understands that leadership is not about his or her own importance but about serving others and seeking the good of the team. Humility also enables a leader to listen, learn, and depend on God rather than one’s own abilities.
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Integrity
Integrity means being whole and undivided, and it is essential for a secure leader. Proverbs 11:3 states, “The integrity of the upright guides them.” Leaders with integrity live consistent lives, aligning their words and actions. They are trustworthy, honest, and transparent, doing what is right even when no one is watching. Secure leaders don’t cut corners or seek shortcuts; they prioritize doing things the right way, with honesty and righteousness.
A mature leader strengthens others through serving, leads by example, and reproduces others to continue after them.
-Alex Seeley
Integrity will always take the way of the cross. Integrity will lay down its own rights rather than pick them up… Integrity cares more about the reputation of God than the furtherance of its own cause.
-David McCraken
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Security in Identity
A secure leader understands their worth and identity in Christ, not in their role or achievements. They lead from a place of confidence rather than striving for validation from others. Insecurity often leads to comparison, competition, and control, but secure leaders trust in God’s calling and don’t need to prove themselves. John 12:32 highlights that Jesus draws people to Himself, and secure leaders, too, draw people through their confidence in God rather than coercion or manipulation.
The enemy comes only to steal, kill, and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it the full.
John 10:10
This servant leader doesn’t complain and always has a can-do attitude. He or she doesn’t self-promote. They never view themselves as better or more superior. He or she works hard in the mundane and is a team player. You notice them when they are not around!