By Drake Hunter | Guest Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice
Through the years, I’ve attended countless leadership training sessions, courses and workshops. Most start with the same bold statement: “All leaders are born leaders!”
While I respect the enthusiasm behind this idea, my first reaction is, “Well, of course! What else would they be?” Every leader was indeed born — but the unspoken truth is that every person born carries the potential to be a leader.
The problem is that this potential often needs to be recognized. Why? Because we seldom hear follow-ups like, “All people who are born can become great leaders,” if they are willing to humble themselves and align with the principles of effective leadership.
When we hear “leadership,” our minds may conjure images of directors, overseers, executives or influencers. Yet, when I reflect on the essence of leadership, I realize something profound: In some way, everyone is leading. Whether it’s guiding your family through a difficult time, making decisions for your future, or simply navigating life’s challenges, you are actively directing your journey. We are all leading our hearts, minds and actions — whether we realize it or not.
So, here’s the truth: We’re all leaders. The question is, what kind of leader are you? Most discussions on leadership focus on trust, vision or performance. While these are crucial, I believe leadership begins with something even more profound: Faith.
Now, before you think this is a purely religious idea, consider faith simply as belief plus action. Even for those who claim to have no faith, their actions prove what they believe — whether in science, human potential or even their next meal arriving on time. Faith is inescapable; it’s hardwired into our lives.
This principle takes on even greater significance for Christians, for the Bible teaches that faith is a personal conviction and a transformational force. Consider Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Faith becomes the cornerstone of leadership, whether in your home, community or workplace. It’s the assurance that your efforts matter, the conviction that your influence can change lives, and the belief that God has a purpose for your leadership.
Leadership is more than a skillset; it’s a calling. Jesus Himself modeled the ultimate example of servant leadership when He said: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:26-28).”
Consider it: Jesus led by lifting others, washing their feet, and putting others’ needs before His own. True leadership is not about status or authority but service, humility and guiding others toward what’s good, right and just. The question is, who is influencing your leadership? It’s something worth pondering! Good leaders or bad ones? Are you modeling Christ, who laid down His life for others, or are you swayed by selfish ambition, pride or fear?
Leadership rooted in faith and trust in God leads to personal growth and meaningful, eternal impact. When we align our leadership with His principles, we discover purpose, clarity, and the strength to navigate life’s challenges. You see, God created you with a purpose, and part of that purpose involves leadership — whether you’re leading your family, your workplace or simply your own life. Leadership is not reserved for the chosen few or the favored; it’s a journey available to all willing to step out in faith.
So, the next time someone claims, “Leaders are born,” you can boldly agree — and then remind them that all people born into this world have the potential to lead with faith, humility and God’s guidance.
Remember: you are leading something, and someone is following.
Where will you take them? Therefore, “Just believe — and lead well, and know you are born to lead!”
Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.