Building leadership in others has been a long-term goal of mine. It is the only effective way of multiplying ourselves and growing future generations of leaders that hold to similar values. Like values does not necessarily denote like methods, but they do hold to similar core beliefs.

Thinking through the process, certain aspects come to mind. I have experienced those who truly desire to be sons and daughters by not only words, but actions and I have experienced those who say they want to be trained or accountable, but their actions did not line up with their request. So, how do you know when someone is serious about becoming a leader in training? How do you recognize those persons who are serious about following you and observing your leadership? Here are a few guidelines that will help you in your discernment:

Identifying Sons and Daughters:  

• Those who are willing to be corrected.
• Those who are willing to be disciplined.
• Those who are willing to stick it out and not “run away” prematurely, especially as time progresses.
• Those who understand and absorb the vision and are in alignment with that vision.
• Those who agree with your core beliefs.
• Those who hold the same or similar values.
• Those who hear and/or know your heart. They know who you are, similar to Jesus’ question of His disciples, “Who do men say that I am?”
• They know they are not your peer and therefore do not compete, or if a peer they understand your fatherhood position in their life.
• They know you have the “words of life,” but at the same time there is no unhealthy control taking place in the relationship.
• They are accountable.
• They are open to your questions and they ask lots of questions.
• A son/daughter realizes a father’s/a mother’s love enough to know you have their best interest in mind.
• They trust your judgement, but not blindly.
• They are not without opinion and conviction but walk in humility and submission.
• They are free to disagree, respond or react with emotion, while maintaining a position and ongoing posture of respect.
• Sons and daughters find ways to acknowledge, show appreciation, express gratitude, and honor spiritual mothers and fathers.

Perhaps these observations are not all inclusive, but you get the idea. Just as we walk in submission to our heavenly Father, we are His sons and daughters. 

“‘I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters,’ says the Lord Almighty.” (II Corinthians 6:18)