Leaders need to be Compassionate
A lifestyle modelled on the life of Jesus requires the same level of devotion and commitment without excuse. Everyone is called to be like Jesus.
But, leaders are specially called to be examples as they oversee the flock.
The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock.
1 Peter 5:3
Jesus was rich. He became poor so the flock can become rich (2 Cor 8:9).
If the church is suffering then the leaders need to be accountable. Rich means, to never be in lack spiritually (Psalms 23:1).
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psalms 23:1-3
How to ensure that the church is rich and walking victoriously?
Leaders need to be compassionate
The leaders need to have one key ingredient as part of their overall character - compassion.
Compassion feeds the flock
Jesus had compassion on the multitude, and they were well fed (Matthew 15:32).
Compassion heals the sick
Jesus healed the two blind men (Matthew 20:34).
Compassion delivers the captive
Jesus delivered a man out of 2000 demons (Mark 5:19).
Compassion brings the dead to life
Jesus raised up a young man from the dead (Luke 7:13).
and lots more...
Everyone knows they need to make money. Money provides the food necessary for the body. What about food for the spirit and soul? Anxiety, depression, sadness, etc. grip us in the journey of life. Only the Word of God can heal.
May God lead the lost to compassionate pastors, men after God's own heart.