How hard can it be to make decisions, tell other people what to do, and enjoy the perks and status of leadership? Many people ask that type of question until they actually start experiencing leadership responsibilities. It is actually quite difficult to be a good leader, and good leadership requires the ability to put the interests of others before your own. Paul set out some of the requirements of church leaders in the third chapter of his first letter to Timothy:
Church officers must also be respectable people, not pretenders, not heavy drinkers, not greedy for money, committed to the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. They should first prove themselves, then be allowed to serve if they are beyond reproach. Women should also be respectable, not gossipers, self-controlled and faithful in everything. Church officers must be husbands of one wife, managing their children and their own houses well. Those who have served well earn for themselves a good reputation and increased confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.
Unfortunately many leaders fail at their responsibilities because they do not have the characteristics which Paul recommended. Some are greedy for money; some are gossipers; most find it difficult to be self-controlled and faithful in everything. Leaders often have to make difficult decisions, endure criticism, and face conflict, while remaining trustworthy and hopeful.