We must pursue holiness daily, but what does that mean? Does it mean that leaders must be perfect? We know that’s not possible. But we must be set apart, becoming increasingly more like Jesus. We must be transparent with our own struggles and yet proclaim God’s faithfulness. We must be consecrated, set apart, seeking to live out the holiness, purity, and morality of God’s nature.
First Peter 1:13-16 clearly instructs us: “Therefore, with your minds ready for action, be serious and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. But as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy” (emphasis mine). We serve a holy God, so we are to be holy. As we walk in holiness, we are useful to the Master. “So if anyone purifies himself from anything dishonorable, he will be a special instrument, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” (2 Tim. 2:21).
I love Priscilla Shirer’s quote of her mother in He Speaks to Me, “Do not go anywhere or do anything questionable where someone might mistake you for me.” As we walk in holiness, we establish credibility as leaders and become women of integrity. Integrity is essential—a non-negotiable in ministry. As women of integrity, we are trustworthy in our actions and consistent in our daily lives. Our yes means yes, and our no means no. We stand up for God’s principles and do not consider compromise. Even in the arena of leadership, you may be alone in standing up for what you know is right in God’s eyes. Ask God to help you stand true to Him—even if you’re the only one.
We all face difficulty in ministry or our personal lives as we serve and lead. Do you hide those struggles? Do you put on your “I’m fine” face and keep going? Or are you transparent and open with others, seeking their support when you face challenges? We need each other as leaders in ministry and sisters in Christ.
This article is adapted from a chapter written by Chris Adams and found in Women Reaching Women: Beginning and Building a Growing Women’s Ministry compiled by Chris Adams.
