Spotting Potential Leaders
Three signals to identify your next leaders—faithful, fruitful, teachable—and simple action steps to start developing them.
Who’s your “next leader” sitting in the circle?
Every thriving group multiplies influence by developing an apprentice before there’s an opening. Your “next leader” is probably already in the circle. Here are three signals to watch for, with examples you’ll recognize:
Faithful
- Shows up consistently, arrives on time, follows through on small asks
- Serves without being prompted: stacks chairs, checks in on absences, offers childcare swaps
- Example phrases: “I can take that,” “I followed up with them,” “I’ll be there early”
Fruitful
- People open up around them; conversation deepens when they speak
- They help the room feel safe: newcomers relax, quiet voices participate
- They naturally connect people outside the gathering (texts, meals, rides)
Teachable
- Receives feedback without defensiveness and tries new approaches
- Asks clarifying questions and reflects on Scripture and practice
- Models a growth mindset always looking to improve.
Note: Don’t dismiss people because they are shy or don’t fit into the mold of what a leader looks like. God often calls the most unlikely people to lead his people.
Action for this week
- Name 1–2 people who fit at least two of the three signals above.
- Affirm them specifically.
- Start thinking about small steps they can begin to take to help lead the group (more on this next week)
Our elders and I would love to hear about the potential group leaders that you may have within your group! Send me some names of leaders and maybe you to can win a gift card like Chris and Katie 😜
-Nathan