Hans E. Boge, Jr, Boge & Boge Engineers, (pictured in the photo at the podium) provided this opening reflection and prayer at the recent ELO Forum Winnipeg on October 22nd, 2025.
We live in a world that prizes achievement, visibility, and power. Yet as followers of Christ, we are called to lead with a different motive.
Three biblical principles form part of the foundation of authentic Christian leadership: Servant Leadership, Integrity, and Stewardship.
1. Servant Leadership
“Whoever wants to be great must be your servant.” — Matthew 20:26
Jesus defined servant leadership. In a world driven by power, He modelled humility by washing the feet of both Peter, who would deny Him, and Judas, who would betray Him.
Servant leadership means putting others first: valuing people over productivity, listening before leading and lifting others to their potential. In business, it builds trust and loyalty that outperform fear and control.
In nonprofits, it keeps the mission above ego. At home, it looks like being emotionally present, generous with time, and leading with love rather than authority.
2. Integrity
“Let your yes be yes and your no, no.” — Matthew 5:37
In leadership, reputation is currency, but integrity is everything. Integrity is being the same person in private as in public, telling the truth even when it costs you, and choosing conviction over convenience.
In a culture that bends its morals for gain, integrity stands out. It’s what gives your word weight and your leadership credibility. It teaches your team and your family that who you are matters more than what you achieve.
3. Stewardship
“To whom much is given, much will be required.” — Luke 12:48
Everything we have: influence, wealth, skill, even time, is entrusted to us, not owned by us. Stewardship calls us to lead with responsibility and gratitude.
In business, that means making ethical decisions and prioritizing people.
In nonprofits, maximizing impact, not just activity.
At home, leaving a legacy of faith, not just success.
When leadership becomes stewardship, accountability is prioritized; first to God, then to those we serve.
The Cost and Calling of Leadership
Leadership is often lonely, heavy, and misunderstood. It means standing firm when others hesitate, sacrificing when few notice, accepting responsibility in failure, and being gracious in success. True leadership isn’t measured in success, but in ongoing private prayer.
Christian leadership doesn’t necessarily mean preaching in your workplace. It means living your faith with courage and grace that points others toward Christ.
Growth as a leader doesn’t just come from experience; it comes from intimacy with God. You can’t lead well without being spiritually grounded. Just as your business needs strategy and your body needs rest, your soul needs consistent nourishment through prayer, worship, and fellowship. The Holy Spirit gives us divine wisdom and strength for every area of life, but we often neglect developing our spiritual strength.
Investing in Your Spiritual Health
Would you go weeks without food or sleep? Then why go days without feeding your spirit? If you want to lead with wisdom and endurance, prioritize spiritual health:
- Stay connected to your church.
- Spend time in worship.
- Pray and meditate daily on God’s Word.
- Surround yourself with other believers who encourage growth.
Leadership shapes culture in boardrooms, communities, and homes. A spiritually mature leader leaves more than results; they leave renewal.
Closing Thought
Leadership is hard work. God doesn’t just want you to succeed; He wants you to flourish in His purpose. Meet Him daily, be a servant leader, and remember that no one wants you to win more than God Himself.
Prayer: Lord, may we lead with humility, integrity, and grace. Strengthen us to serve faithfully, that Your power and blessing be evident in all we do. Amen.