We recently explored the probability that the majority of pregnancy centers do not have a history of assessing the leadership skills of the organization. We also discussed a potential "crisis of leadership" if attention to this matter is not given priority by the leadership team.

If you engaged in a biblical word study of lead, leader, leadership you probably learned the following:

• God equips those He calls to lead
• God selects His leaders based upon character
• God never leaves His leaders without direction
• God trusts His leaders with His sheep
• God entrusts His leaders with authority
• A leader with a teachable spirit is pleasing to the Lord

I'm certain that you can add to this list from your own study. The point is that leadership is a gift that is to be continually molded by Elohim, our Creator; empowered by El Elyon, the Most High Sovereign Ruler; directed by El Roi, The God Who Sees; perfected by El Shaddai, the All-Sufficient One; and protected by Jehovah-Nissi, the Lord our Banner.

Looking at leadership from a biblical point of view causes us to realize the importance that character plays in leadership.

According to Ken Blanchard in his forward for the book The Ascent of a Leader, character is "the inner world of motives and values that shapes our actions — is the ultimate determiner of the nature of our leadership…It distinguishes those who steward power well from those who abuse power. Character weaves such values as integrity, honesty and selfless service into the fabric of our lives, organizations and cultures." Wow! What an incredible testament to the need for Godly character in a leader.

Character, as Blanchard says, is the "inner world of motives and values that shape our actions." How is a board to determine the "character" of their colleagues or their key employee? How do you discover the "inner world" of someone?

Here are some questions that you may find helpful:

• Is this person a student? Do they listen more than talk? Do you see growth in key areas?
• Do personal references attest to character growth of this individual? If so, in what ways?
• How does this individual demonstrate that he/she lives by his/her personal convictions?
• What type of contributions has this individual left behind in past organizations?
• Is this individual aware of his/her influence? Is his/her influence used appropriately?
• Does this individual display a vibrant relationship with God?

As the pregnancy center movement matures it is challenged to provide stronger leadership at both the board and senior staff level. Leadership in this case means being committed to God's Word and to His people as well as demonstrating proven leadership skills. The combination of being called by God to serve and bringing Godly leadership, passion and commitment to the table breeds an undeniable strength.

Take a moment to honestly answer the questions above for yourself. How strong are your leadership skills? Where do you see God working in your life to strengthen these skills? If you’re brave enough, ask a trusted friend to give you feedback on these questions. I encourage you to take this feedback to the foot of the cross and pray Psalm 143:10. Ask God to develop your leadership skills as well as your discernment to recognize true leadership; then watch with eyes wide open as He unfolds His plans before you.

Darlene Norberg
Sanctity of Human Life National Consultant
Focus on the Family