Led to Lead: The Marks of a Spirit-Formed Leader

Lately, I’ve been reading more about leadership—especially what it looks like when shaped by the Spirit rather than by ego or ambition.

One quote that stopped me in my tracks comes from A.W. Tozer in his reflections on spiritual leadership:

“A true and safe leader is likely to be one who has no desire to lead, but is forced into a position by the inward leading of the Holy Spirit and the press of circumstances... There was hardly a great leader from Paul to the present day but was drafted by the Holy Spirit for the task, and commissioned by the Lord to fill a position he had little heart for... The man who is ambitious to lead is disqualified... the true leader will have no desire to lord it over God’s heritage, but will be humble, gentle, self-sacrificing, and altogether ready to follow when the Spirit chooses another to lead.”

What This Teaches Us About True Leadership

Tozer's words challenge much of what leadership looks like in today's world.
In our culture, leaders are often self-appointed, platform-driven, and motivated by ambition or influence.

But in God's economy, true leaders are often reluctant, humbled, and Spirit-compelled.

• They do not seek power—they respond to God’s call.

• They don’t crave position—they carry responsibility with trembling.

• They lead with open hands and open hearts—ready to step aside when the Spirit appoints another.

Called to Follow First

What makes this view so radical is its countercultural nature:
To lead well, one must be deeply formed in following.

A spiritual leader is first and foremost a servant—led by the Spirit, shaped by suffering, and sustained by grace. This kind of leadership may not always be visible, but it bears the unmistakable fragrance of Christ.