Part 2 – The Disciplines That Keep a Leader Strong
Scripture: “May your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NLT)
Leadership is not just about the words we speak or the decisions we make; it is also about the actions we take. It’s about who we are — all of us. Scripture shows that God cares about our spirit, soul, and body. When one part is neglected, our leadership weakens, and those we lead sense it.
I’ve learned over the years that discipline isn’t about legalism — it’s about stewardship. Suppose God has entrusted people to our influence. In that case, He has also entrusted us with stewardship — the responsibility to steward our own lives first, becoming spiritually strong, mentally healthy, and physically fit, so that we may lead by example.
1. Our Spirit – This is our lifeline to God. When our spirit is healthy, our leadership flows from intimacy with Him, not from our cleverness or charisma. This means prioritizing prayer, making time for His Word, and cultivating a worshipful heart that stays tender before Him. Leaders who neglect their spirit can still “go through the motions,” but without the power and presence of God behind them, their leadership will show cracks and their impact will be lessened.
2. Our Soul (Mind & Emotions) – A renewed mind, anchored in God’s truth, makes decisions with clarity and confidence. Proverbs 4:23 NLT says, "Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." Today, people often think of ‘guarding your heart’ as building walls and shutting others out. But biblically, it means protecting what God has planted in us so His wisdom, love, and peace can flow through. If we don’t guard our hearts, emotions, and negativity can take over. Instead of leading with God’s wisdom, we’ll just react to circumstances — and reactive leaders weaken the people they influence.”
3. Our Body – This is where many leaders quietly compromise. Paul said, “I discipline my body like an athlete” (1 Corinthians 9:27 NLT). Our physical health impacts our stamina, focus, and even the credibility of our message. Leaders who neglect caring for their bodies often don’t realize they’re slowly depleting the energy they need to serve effectively. We honor God when we steward our health — not for vanity, but for longevity and strength in the work He’s given us.
When these three areas are aligned under God’s authority, our leadership becomes steady, trustworthy, and worth following. People can sense when a leader is consistent in private and public life. And that example, far more than any lesson we teach, inspires others to grow.
And so, don’t let this feel impossible or discourage you in your present leadership. Everything God teaches us takes time, effort, and growth. The key is to recognize the critical importance of this for the long term and to commit to a steady plan of strengthening your spirit, soul, and body. As you do, you’ll not only grow personally, but those you lead will grow with you. You’ll gain greater confidence to lead — not out of pride or ego, but out of the humility of one who has walked the journey, practiced discipline, and is becoming the best leader you can be for God.”
"May your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NLT)
Prayer: Lord, You’ve called me to lead — help me to lead well. Keep my spirit alive in You, my mind and emotions anchored in truth, and my body strong to serve. Let every part of my life point to You and inspire others to follow You wholeheartedly. Amen.
