Why Do People Follow Leaders?
In ministry and in life, leadership is influence. And if we want to lead well—if we want to lead like Jesus—we need to understand why people follow a leader in the first place. It’s not about charisma or charm. It’s not about position or power. It’s about the qualities that flow from a life surrendered to God and committed to serving others.
25 Reasons People Follow a Leader
Over the years, I’ve observed that people are drawn to leaders for specific reasons. Some of these reasons are deeply spiritual, others are practical. Here are 25 of them:
They respect the leader.
They want to be associated with them.
They don’t want to face the unknown alone.
The leader has rare abilities.
The leader is going where they want to go.
They feel better about themselves when around that leader.
The leader carries a compelling vision.
They are consistent.
They uphold strong standards.
They provide direction.
They show compassion.
They have determination.
Their life reflects wealth or success.
They present themselves well.
They live with integrity.
They take courageous steps.
They exercise self-discipline.
They are trustworthy.
They are loyal.
They are fair.
They make good judgments.
They are successful.
There’s mutual respect.
They challenge others to grow.
They practice good manners.
These qualities don’t just happen—they are cultivated. They’re the fruit of a leader who walks closely with the Lord and embraces their calling with seriousness and humility.
Holding On to Your Best People
A great leader not only draws people—they keep them. Here’s how:
Get the best, not the easiest.
Design development programs that bring out their potential.
Pay generously where you can.
Communicate openly and consistently.
Affirm and appreciate their efforts.
Give them opportunities to grow.
Challenge their restlessness with fresh assignments.
Reward success in tangible ways.
Your team is your treasure. Value them like God does.
What Real Leaders Look Like
A real leader is:
Fearless, clear, unlimited, wise, and courageous.
Someone who sees the vision, believes in it, and brings others along.
Willing to stretch and push others—not for control, but for Christ.
As leaders, we must walk in the robe of righteousness, live lives that build confidence, and stay rooted in God’s Word. Remember, success is not a goal—it’s a result.
Wisdom Nuggets
Here are a few truths I’ve learned and shared with our staff:
Ministry will cost you. Every decision has a price.
Write down what you’ve learned. Review it often.
Every ministry needs a reserve. Don't run on empty.
Success requires resilience. Many lose out not from failure, but from being unprepared for it.
Live well. People are watching—not for perfection, but for authenticity.
A Formula for Success
The Bible is clear—success in God’s eyes requires grit, grace, and godly goals:
“Don’t be satisfied. Press forward.” (Phil. 3:13)
“Success comes to those too busy to look for it.”
“Success never comes without struggle.” (Jer. 12:5)
Set goals. Prioritize well. Endure hardship. Trust God.
Final Thought
You don’t lead because you want to be followed—you lead because you want to make a difference. God is looking for leaders who will steward their influence well. Let’s be those leaders.
