The key is that you and others must be able to trust each other.
This is done through accountability. Josh Hamilton, the ballplayer I mentioned, has a very good friend who knows where he is at all times. While you shouldn’t have to do that with everyone, you certainly will with young children or with someone who has been into drugs. In fact, you should with older children, if it’s a really bad area. And, if they do go somewhere they shouldn’t, the reins need to be tightened for a while. It’s always for their protection, though.
The important thing is, you also need to be accountable to others. There should never be a reason for you to lie to someone about your whereabouts. (If you were shopping for a surprise gift, you can always just mention the store, for instance.) God can easily remove the mantle of leadership if you misuse it, after all. He did this with Israel’s first king, Saul, before David was anointed king.
It’s not that hard, though. Accountability is easy. It’s just honestly being able to talk about your day, what you’ve been doing, and so on. You don’t have to tell every person everything. You just need accountability partners, so you can help each other. This is especially true if you’re a teenager or younger. If your parents aren’t holding you to a high standard, you should find a friend who will.
If those you are shepherding don’t trust you, they will be much less likely to follow you. They may not believe in God as easily, either. You have a big role as a spiritual leader. You are the only example of Jesus that others may see.
The Bible is very clear that people will become like and copy their leaders. Children do this most of all. Telling someone to do something you don’t do yourself is a trick of the devil, your enemy.
