Leadership crisis of character—
Quotes:
John Nichols-pastors need to focus on being a Christian first. Leadership is BEING in relationship with HIM.
Perry Noble-listen to God and do what He says.
Know, Be, and Do. Often we desire outcomes so desperately we sell out our being for accomplishment. We seek, ask, and knock on the door of methodology, program and paradigm while neglecting our responsibility and calling to BE. Fundamentally, we are called to be in relationship with our Heavenly Father. Communing with God the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit via the work of the Son in the context of the Word within our community of faith is the life of faith. Our foundation for ministry expression is found within this relational knowing. The erosion of clergy character has significant detriment on Gospel identity in our community. There is a desperate need for character development in our leadership.
Too often, the charismatic communicator receives promotion without developing intimacy with God. Each prayer, devotion, study time becomes focused toward the next speaking engagement. Personal development and devotion fades in the public lime light. (It is ridiculous to type that last statement).
How do you hold in tension the desires for self-promotion/self-protection and humility/confidence in God?
What do I need to know in order lead effectively in the ministry?
1. Know God
2. Know/understand yourself—not just hearing to give to others…but growing personally
3. Know/understand others
4. Know/understand how to manage the differences…main tension is the difference between 2 and 3.
Knowing God IS the beginning. However, we are to reverently know Him. (Ps 111:10 (NEB) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and they who live by it grow in understanding…Prov 9:10 (NEB) The first step to wisdom is the fear of the Lord, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.)
Study of Scripture and prayerful reflection on God’s historic activity brings knowledge, wisdom and understanding to our life. Once one knows God and finds comfort in His abilities and love; confidence arises.
Knowing one’s self is difficult. (Jeremiah 17:9) We are able to deceive ourselves and follow polluted intentions. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us to guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Intentionally feeding our hearts His Word and Presence protects, nurtures and guides us toward His calling.
Being a student of those whom you lead versus simply leveraging followers to implement a vision sets mediocre leaders apart from excellent. Leadership is fundamentally an issue of the heart. Knowing and understanding those whom God has trusted to one’s care is elementary to Christian fundamentals. (John 13:34) Many leaders take for granted their followers. Understanding why others are following is crucial to communication and completion of the journey.
Finally, knowing and understanding how to manage differences between you as the leader and others around you is crucial. Not everyone is the same. Not everyone expects the same results. Not everyone wants the same things from the journey. Understanding and communicating clearly expectations, destinations and processes distinguishes mediocre and excellent.
