Dwight D. Eisenhower used to demonstrate the art of leadership in a simple but forceful way. He would place a single piece of string on a table and say, “Pull it, and it follows wherever you want it to go. But push it, and it goes nowhere.”

This principle of leadership applies in the church as well as in the military. Autocratic, demanding pastors will sooner or later drive people away with their ironhanded tactics. Individuals deserve to be listened to carefully and treated with dignity.

Peter recognized this when he wrote to some of the leaders of the early church: “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, . . . not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (1 Pet. 5:2-3). Peter had lived with Jesus and observed His method of leadership. It was strong, gentle, respectful, and carried the authority of a consistent example.

Regardless of our leadership position, “pulling power” has a greater chance of success than the push of authoritative demands. Pushing may bring about outward compliance, but good leadership creates an inner willingness to follow because of what is seen in the life of the leader.

  — Dennis J. De Haan