Leadership Presence
I heard a father say something once that impacted me as a leader. He was talking about his rather strong-willed sons. He said, "I'm not called to be their friend, I'm called to be their Father". I know, I know, that sounds so negative. We want to be their friend too, right? I think it is possible to be a friend but not at the expense of being what they really need, and that is a leader.

Leadership has been called a "lonely place". It is a lonely place because to be a leader requires one to step out of the shadows of the crowd. It makes us a target and the object of other's frustration many times. However, leaders have to understand that while they may want to be "one of the boys", it may not be possible. This is a part of the price of leadership! I believe we need to count the cost before we accept the call to lead but once we have made the choice of obedience, lead we must.

I am not promoting the "old school" philosophy that you cannot be friends with those you lead. I believe you can. You won't have to draw a line of separation to maintain your authority. I can't imagine Jesus doing that. However, his having to take stands, correcting and assigning responsibility, drew the line for Him. Don't be afraid to lead. Don't cower back from correcting, assigning roles/jobs to others, training leaders, and yes loving as a leader. It is this kind of leadership that establishes the parameters for those you lead. It creates an atmosphere of safety and peace. A poor leader or a weak leader is so consummed with self love and wanting to be liked that he just can't bring himself to a place of true leadership. If you are called to lead, go ahead and step out in faith and assume the role for which the Lord is waiting to anoint and empower. This kind of leadership requires the best from those you lead. It lets them know when they are to be on the job, when they are to leave and what they should be doing while there. Of course, the best way to set the pattern is to live it yourself so all can see.

Your primary goal in leadership is not to build this fun place where everyone likes you. Your primary goal is to be a caring leader who is committed to being your best and causing those you lead to rise to becoming their best!