The Three Most Important Decisions A Leader Will Make
As Christian leaders, we consistently strive for a life of purpose, meaning, and genuine fulfillment. Yet, amidst the pressures of ministry, leadership responsibilities, and life’s many demands, we may find ourselves wondering, “Am I truly living the abundant life Jesus promised?” It’s an essential question, especially for those called to lead others spiritually and practically.
In John 10:10, Jesus offers a remarkable promise: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” This abundant life isn’t defined by worldly standards like wealth, power, or fleeting achievements. Rather, it’s about experiencing deep joy, lasting peace, and a profound sense of purpose that can only come from aligning our lives with Christ’s intentions.
To experience this abundant life, especially as leaders who influence others, we must carefully consider three foundational decisions—decisions that shape our leadership, affect our relationships, and determine our lasting legacy.
1. Life’s Master: Whom Will You Serve?
Every leader ultimately serves someone or something, whether intentionally or unknowingly. Jesus underscores the gravity of this choice clearly in Matthew 6:24: “No one can serve two masters.” Likewise, Joshua challenged Israel in Joshua 24:15, “Choose you this day whom you will serve.” For a Christian leader, choosing Christ as your life’s Master is not merely about spiritual discipline; it is the cornerstone of effective, transformative leadership.
Leaders who wholeheartedly surrender their lives and leadership to Jesus discover an unparalleled clarity of vision, inner peace, and lasting impact. Choosing Christ and then living a fully surrendered life to Him guards against burnout, disillusionment, and ethical compromise (common pitfalls in positions of leadership or influence). When Christ is truly our Master, our lives and leadership become anchored in eternal truths rather than temporary trends. Our decisions, actions, and influence become reflections of His love, integrity, and purpose.
Prayer Focus: Pray daily for the strength and humility to submit fully to Christ’s lordship in every area of your life and leadership.
2. Life’s Mate: Who Will You Walk With?
After determining whom you will serve, the next most important decision you’ll make is choosing your spouse (and partner for life). Proverbs 18:22 beautifully declares, “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” Your spouse isn’t merely a romantic companion; they are an integral partner in your life’s journey, shaping your leadership effectiveness and overall fulfillment.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 enriches this understanding: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Choosing a godly mate involves prayerful consideration of character, faith, integrity, and compatibility in calling and values. Healthy, God-centered marriages are intentionally built on mutual respect, selfless love, consistent communication, shared spiritual growth, and steadfast commitment to biblical principles.
Prioritizing and investing in your marriage (and your mate), is not merely wise; it’s essential! Strong marriages create resilient leaders who are emotionally grounded, spiritually encouraged, and able to navigate life’s complexities with grace and strength. They are also the product of intentionality and commitment.
Prayer Focus: Ask God for wisdom and discernment in your relationship choices, and regularly pray for strength, unity, and growth in your marriage.
3. Life’s Mission: What Will You Devote Yourself To?
Finally, leaders must consider their life’s mission—the very purpose for which God created them. Proverbs 16:3 instructs us, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” For leaders, our mission is more than just a job. It’s a calling from God—something you’re passionate about, shaped by your gifts, interests, and the doors God opens. From this sense of calling, the work we do naturally follows.
As believers, our mission must always aim to advance God’s Kingdom on earth. We are called to be vessels of honor, fully committed to fulfilling Christ’s mission, demonstrating His love, proclaiming His truth, and transforming the world around us through our God-given abilities and influence.
When your vocation aligns with God’s specific purpose for your life, work ceases to be merely a responsibility or source of income. Instead, it becomes a profound source of fulfillment, inspiration, and kingdom impact. Leaders who clearly identify and passionately pursue their God-given mission inspire those they lead, embodying authenticity, resilience, and contagious enthusiasm.
Prayer Focus: Pray for clarity about your unique calling and the courage and consistency to faithfully pursue and fulfill God’s Kingdom purposes.
Integrating These Decisions into Your Daily Leadership
Today, reflect deeply on these three crucial decisions—your Master, your Mate, and your Mission. Evaluate honestly: Is your daily life and leadership consistently aligned with these foundational choices? Do your priorities reflect your commitment to Christ, your investment in vital relationships, and your pursuit of God’s unique purpose for you?
As Christian leaders, the stakes are indeed high. Yet, the potential for eternal significance and genuine personal fulfillment is equally profound. Recommit today to intentionally living these decisions. Allow your leadership to be a powerful testament to the abundant life Christ promises, marked by purpose, deep relational bonds, and transformative influence.
This is the true essence of living an abundant life—a life that genuinely matters, now and eternally.