Visionary leaders move things forward. They have the ability to see possibility, cast inspiring vision, and mobilize people to pursue the vision. But there’s a difference between visionary leaders and Spirit-led visionaries.

Spirit-led visionaries aren’t simply chasing a vision. They listen first to the voice of the Spirit, and then they allow the Spirit to birth His vision for the future.

This installment of Make It Count (available in English and Spanish) examines 10 qualities Spirit-led visionaries cultivate. As you envision the future, lead team members toward it, and walk in step with God, consider how you are doing in each of the following roles:

1. Spirit-Led Leader. Spirit-led visionaries are more concerned about being Spirit-led than vision-led. This posture keeps them from imposing personal preferences, past traditions, or human visions onto the future of the church.

2. Faith-Filled Thinker. Spirit-led visionaries believe God is able to do immeasurably more than they can ask or imagine. Like the faith-filled leaders of Hebrews 11, their mindset is predisposed toward faith rather than fear, and abundance rather than scarcity.

3. Growth-Focused Learner. Spirit-led visionaries have a lifelong learning posture. They possess a growth mindset, embrace growth systems, and exhibit a willingness to make changes so the Church can fulfill its redemptive potential in the world.

Spirit-led visionaries aren’t simply chasing
a vision. They listen
first to the voice of
the Spirit, and then
they allow the Spirit
to birth His vision for
the future.

4. Future-Oriented Architect. In addition to celebrating what God has done in the past, Spirit-led visionaries look ahead to what God wants to do next. Rather than simply repeating the past, they become architects of the future.

5. Careful Vision Creator. Unclear visions only create confusion and frustration. After dreaming of the possibilities, Spirit-led visionaries translate those dreams into something specific, measurable, inspirational, and time-bound that people can understand.

6. Inspiring Vision Caster. God-inspired dreams are usually bigger than the talent and resources of a single individual. That’s why Spirit-led visionaries master the art of vision casting to inspire people toward a better and brighter future.

7. Practical Strategic Planner. Spirit-led visionaries recognize every vision requires a plan, people, provision and a way to measure progress. They’re daring dreamers, as well as practical planners.

8. Courageous Risk Taker. Some Spirit-led visionaries are adventurous, while others are cautious. Either way, they have the courage to step into the unknown and boldly pursue God’s vision for the future.

9. Innovative Problem Solver. Every leader faces opposition. Spirit-led visionaries are innovative and creative, always looking to enlarge their growth inputs and engage their teams to solve tough problems.

10. Resilient Hard Worker. Leaders often encounter setbacks that cause their visions to stall or even retreat a few steps. Spirit-led visionaries cultivate Spirit-inspired grit so they can persevere to the end and see God’s vision fully realized.

As you read and discuss each lesson, cultivate the qualities to help you become a Spirit-led visionary who leads the church toward the future God has prepared.

Adapted from the Summer 2023 issue of Influence magazine.