Holy ambition without holiness is worse than unholiness.  The early church leader Paul wrote at least two letters to his young friend Timothy.  In 1 Timothy 3, Paul writes these words:

It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do—1 Timothy 3:1.

An overseer is a key leader, a significant teacher, and an elevated role model in the church family.  A common title to this office is “pastor.”  Some churches have one pastor; many churches have a number of pastors serving different functions.  But the point is that God has given some men a fire in their gut to be an overseer, and Paul affirmed that holy ambition.

But then Paul used the next 117 words or so to describe the necessary qualifications for man to fulfill that role of leadership.  His motive was not to frustrate the God-given ambition of men to serve, but rather to highlight what is at stake.

John Maxwell and others have said, “We are all just one decision away from stupid.”  Paul knew this too.   And he also knew that leadership is more than the demonstration of skill, but that it is the leverage of influence.  A leader must desire leadership, but the desire for leadership alone never qualifies a man to lead.  The character of his life as demonstrated in his attitude, actions, and words overtime builds the platform from which a leader can thrive.

So after his encouragement of holy ambition, Paul shared a few basic tests of a man’s character.  He knew that a leader (in whatever capacity) without holiness created bigger problems than unholiness.  Here’s why:

A leader’s words are appreciated.  A leader’s life is imitated.

Someone has well said that we produce who we are.  Regardless of how sincere a leader’s motive may be, when there is a disconnect between his words and actions, his ability to lead is damaged.

A leader’s position is respected.  A leader’s influence is compensated.

A title or a place on the organizational chart doesn’t make a leader.  Instead, he is compensated financially, relationally, professionally, and emotionally based on the direct effects of his life on others.

A leader’s role is specialized.  A leader’s results are generalized.

Very simply, what a leader does in his narrow field of calling or expertise affects many other people outside his immediate circle of responsibilities.  A leader realizes that daily decisions shape the culture even beyond the visible organization.

A leader’s ambition is expected.  A leader’s service is expanded.

People expect leaders to possess confidence based on calling, convictions, and competence.  But the opportunity to reproduce one’s influence in others is rooted in sacrificial service.  Paul used words like “gentle” and “manage,” and he warned against conceit.  Leaders lead from a posture of humility.

Leaders will fall short, but biblical leadership (effective leadership) champions integrity in the life of one, because that one leader impacts the many.

QUESTION: How have you seen the power of personal integrity expand your leadership opportunities?