Rediscovering God's Heart for LeadershipSample

Made to Reflect: The Imago Dei in Every Leader

"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

When you think of a leader, who comes to mind? A president? A pastor? A CEO in a sharp suit, giving a powerful speech? What if I told you that the first leadership lesson in the Bible does not begin in a boardroom but in a garden? It begins with dirt, divine breath, and two people made in God’s image.

Leadership in the Garden

Genesis tells us that God created people in His image—His Imago Dei. He did not just make us to exist; He made us to reflect Him. And part of that reflection includes leadership, but not the kind that bulldozes or boasts. God told the first humans to “rule” and “subdue” the earth (Genesis 1:28), not through domination but stewardship. The Hebrew words imply caring, cultivating, and protecting, with the heart of a careful gardener, not an aggressive tyrant. Imagine a farmer gently tilling the soil to help something grow. God’s design for leadership creates space for others to flourish.

A Leadership Mandate for Everyone

Too often, we assume leadership is for the few, especially those who are confident, outspoken, and have a platform. But leadership is not limited to positions or titles. If you have ever influenced someone—even quietly—you have led. God’s leadership design applies to every believer. Whether you are parenting toddlers, running a business, teaching students, leading a small group, or playing a supporting role behind the scenes, your influence matters. You were created to reflect the leadership of a just, kind, powerful, and loving God. This means every day is an opportunity to lead as He would.

Reflecting the Image—Even When It’s Difficult

Genesis 3 reminds us of the Fall. God’s image in us was smudged, and everything was tainted with sin. God’s design for stewardship and loving partnership became twisted in the hearts of mankind, evidenced through control, pride, and self-preservation. And let’s be honest: don’t we all wrestle with those temptations at times? But God did not leave us in the dirt. Throughout Scripture, He calls His people back to reflect Him rightly—to lead with courage, compassion, and character. Jesus, the “second and greater Adam” (Romans 5:12-19), came to restore what was broken and show us what godly leadership looks like.

A Thought to Ponder

You are not just made by God; you are made to reflect God. That means leadership is something you were designed for and is not limited to a position you must earn or wait for. When you lead with love, humility, and courage wherever you are and whatever you do, you reflect the very heart of the Creator.

Prayer

God, thank You for making me in Your image. I confess that sometimes I lead from fear, insecurity, pride, or self-protection. Help me today to reflect You; to lead with care, courage, and humility in the spaces You have placed me. Amen.

Reflection Questions

Where in your life, big or small, do you have influence? How can you lead in that space in a way that reflects God’s character?