Leading with Faith: The Core Values of Christian Leadership
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”
— 1 Corinthians 4:2 (NIV)
Leadership in the Kingdom of God is not measured by titles or achievements, but by trustworthiness. At its heart, Christian leadership is about faith, not only in God but also in living faithfully with the gifts He has given us. When we look through the lens of the Core Values Index, we see how God has uniquely designed leaders to strengthen, love, innovate, and steward with faithfulness.
Strength That Builds (Builder)
Builders lead with strength and decisive action. They are the ones who roll up their sleeves and press forward when others hesitate. In Christian leadership, this strength becomes more than determination; it becomes courage rooted in trust that God goes before us. When a Builder-leader steps out in faith, others find the confidence to follow.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Love That Inspires (Merchant)
Merchants lead with love, connection, and vision. They draw people together around a common cause, inspiring others by showing them their worth. In the church and in the workplace, Merchant-leaders reflect Christ’s command to “love one another” (John 13:34). Their leadership isn’t about power but about creating belonging, cultivating relationships, and inspiring teams to thrive.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35
Wisdom That Creates (Innovator)
Innovators lead with wisdom, problem-solving, and creativity. They see possibilities others overlook and bring fresh solutions to old challenges. In Christian leadership, Innovator-leaders echo James 1:5 — “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.” Their faith-driven insight reminds us that God often does new things in unexpected ways.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5
Faithfulness That Stewards (Banker)
Bankers lead with faithfulness, stewardship, and a deep respect for order. They are steady, reliable, and trustworthy, the ones who protect the resources, traditions, and truths entrusted to them. Christian Banker-leaders embody the parable of the faithful servant, who manages what is given well and multiplies it for the Master’s glory.
“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”
Faith as the Foundation
Every leader carries a unique blend of these Core Values. But what unites them is faith. Without faith, strength becomes harsh, love becomes sentiment, wisdom becomes pride, and stewardship becomes control. With faith, each value becomes a way of living out the gospel through leadership.
Christian leadership is not about personality or position. It is about surrendering your design to the Designer, trusting that He has equipped you to lead with strength, love, wisdom, and faithfulness for His glory.
Reflection:
Which of the four Core Values best describes the way you lead? How might God be inviting you to bring your leadership more fully under the covering of faith?
What’s at the Core of You?
You were created with a unique design, not random, not accidental, but intentional. Deep inside, four Core Values shape how you love, lead, solve problems, and live out your faith.
Curious which one God wired into you most strongly?
Don’t just wonder. Take the next step and discover the values at the very heart of your design.