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Spiritual Virtues

In: Developing Christian Servant Leadership

Author

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  • Gary E. Roberts

Abstract

One of the great temptations in leadership is the desire to be worshipped. Not, of course, in a formal religious fashion, but on a practical level. The power associated with leadership roles is a great temptation to our pride, ego, and insecurities. Servant leaders are to be respected, but not feared or made into idols. Perfection as a leader is, of course, impossible, but our hearts strive for this goal anyway given a variety of motives, from pride to the underlying fear of failure at the heart of perfectionism. Perfectionists define their identity and worth relative to their performance—an enslaving mindset. Perfectionism is a cruel taskmaster. The perfectionist has no peace in his heart as he is serving a cruel idol. If the root of perfectionism is insecurity, every sign of weakness must be repressed vigorously. The primal fear that never leaves is the perpetual gnawing of the conscience of perfectionists that they are living a lie. The conscience whispers accusing, tormenting, and condemning thoughts, relative to their true state of weakness, insecurity, and the frauds that they are. For the narcissist, the inner voice praises one’s great ability and the relative weakness and unworthiness of others. However, as we all know, no matter how effective or competent we are as leaders, we are imperfect, make mistakes, and possess weaknesses; hence, we are flawed.

Suggested Citation

  • Gary E. Roberts, 2015. "Spiritual Virtues," Palgrave Macmillan Books, in: Developing Christian Servant Leadership, chapter 0, pages 85-115, Palgrave Macmillan.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palchp:978-1-137-49245-6_6
    DOI: 10.1057/9781137492456_6
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