The process of learning changes a person in profound ways. For Jesus-followers, this is an important distinction and should be taken into consideration when becoming a life-long learner. Hoppe (2005) recognizes that the formal education of an individual has a direct impact on their spirituality. She outlines several key attributes of spiritual leadership which include an assessment of the inner journey, meaning and significance, wholeness, and connectedness. The inner journey assessment relies on one’s ability to honestly evaluate their inner self.

For Christians, this evaluation must fall in alignment through a Biblical framework. Inevitably, anyone who compares themselves to the word of God is profoundly challenged to grow. In the same way, Christian leaders must constantly define significance from a Biblical point of view. Without God’s word as a constant value, it becomes easy to be swayed by changing culture and popular opinion. The concept of wholeness in leadership speaks to the integrity of the leader and his or her ability to embody the values espoused by his or her organization. Finally, the concept of connectedness requires us to be fully present in and out of season. Hoppe explains that this perspective, “includes an understanding of our place in the world and beyond” (2005) .

Hoppe, Sherry L. 2005. “Spirituality and leadership.” New Directions for Teaching and Learning 2005 (104): 83–92.