The Intersection of Faith and Leadership: Insights from ILS 2025 Speakers

But what if this separation is holding us back?

At ILS 2025, we explored the undeniable connection between faith and leadership. What we discovered — through powerful keynotes and personal testimonies — is that these two forces were never meant to be divided. In fact, when they work in harmony, they unlock a deeper, more authentic version of leadership that creates lasting impact.

RETHINKING THE DIVIDE

Too often, faith is viewed as intangible and impractical, while leadership is seen as purely strategic and success driven. This kind of narrow thinking robs both faith and leadership of their full power. In a world full of uncertainties, complex decisions, and moral challenges, leaders need more than strategies — they need spiritual grounding.

Many of this year’s ILS speakers made it clear: Faith didn’t sit on the sidelines of their leadership journey — it led the way. For them, faith wasn’t just belief; it was the lens through which they made decisions, overcame obstacles, and inspired others.

A VISIONARY’S PERSPECTIVE

ILS founder T.D. Jakes has always emphasized that true leadership integrates faith with action. Over his decades of ministry and leadership development, he has seen countless individuals limit their potential by separating the spiritual from the practical.

During one of his sessions this year, he shared:

“Effective leaders must read more than the Bible, so you can converse with people where they are. If you can only talk to people who think like you, you will always be narrow.”

That statement is a challenge to every faith-driven leader. It calls us to expand our perspective — to be able to pray and pitch, to worship and work, to serve and strategize.

Being spiritually grounded doesn’t mean being disconnected. It means showing up in every space with authenticity, insight, and impact.

LEADERSHIP IS A FAITH JOURNEY

One of the standout voices at ILS 2025 was Dr. Myron Rolle, a former NFL player turned neurosurgeon. His life is a powerful example of how faith and leadership intersect.

He shared this encouragement with leaders:

“Focus on the journey. Speak life into yourself to push you into your next chapter. Then, leave it to God.”

Effective leadership means speaking the things God said about us even when we don’t look like what He said. Real faith leaves the outcome in His hands and focuses on the day-to-day journey. Leadership is not just about where you end up — it’s about who you become along the way. Faith gives you the fuel to keep going, even when you can’t yet see the finish line. It gives you the courage to lead in spaces where you may be the only voice of hope.

LIVING IN FAITH-FORWARD LEADERSHIP

Your next chapter is coming. So, make sure you don’t separate your spiritual life from your leadership life. There are people you are called to reach and impact that will respond to your uniqueness. Be bold in faith, but also be human enough to live in the real world connecting with people where they are in life. This is how the effect of your leadership is amplified and new doors of opportunity come to you because who you are translates in multiple environments. This is what it is to lead with faith!