October 13, 2025
So far, we’ve seen that shepherding is God’s model, that failed leadership invites His opposition, and that undershepherds must live in dependence. But how do leaders remain steady? Scripture provides anchors that hold leaders in alignment with God’s design.
Four Anchors
1. IDENTITY—You are God's undershepherd.
2. EMPOWERMENT—You lead only by His Spirit.
3. IMITATION—As Jesus depended on the Father, so must you abide in Him.
4. RESPONSIBILITY—You are accountable to God for the care, guidance, and protection of His people.
These anchors are not optional add-ons. They are lifelines, keeping leaders from drifting into pride, fear, or negligence.
Biblical Insight
The Hebrew word nagiyd, often translated “leader,” captures this dynamic. It speaks of one who stands boldly but always under a higher authority. In other words, true leadership is both courageous and submitted.
This truth protects us from two extremes: timid leadership that avoids responsibility, and domineering leadership that forgets accountability. Anchors keep us tethered to both courage and humility.
Ministry Application
Anchors shape staff culture: reminding leaders that empowerment comes from God’s Spirit, not personality.
Anchors shape decision-making: pointing leaders back to God’s purposes, not personal agendas.
Anchors shape leadership health: keeping leaders from drifting into burnout or pride.
Reflection for Leaders
Which of these anchors feels strongest in your leadership right now?
Which one needs the most attention?
An Invitation
This post draws from themes in my book Kingdom over Culture: Restoring Biblical Leadership in a Secularized Church. If you’d like to go deeper, you can order the book here https://drmeredithjames.com/shop. I also offer workshops, staff trainings, and speaking engagements on shepherd leadership and other frameworks for kingdom leadership. To learn more or invite me to work with your team, connect with me here https://drmeredithjames.com.
