In keeping with our focus on SALT, today provides another Fun Fact to consider.

“Not far from the edge of the Dead Sea stands a geological formation made up of primarily salt. It has gained the name “Lot’s wife” for its human like shape and the possibility that it overlooks the location of ancient Sodom. It is not only a reminder of the importance of heeding God’s instruction, it is also a lesson for leaders. Looking back is not wise. Honoring the past is fine, but looking and longing for past success, past programs, or past people will lead only to stagnation. Leadership is forward looking.” Wayne Roberts

The future awaits those who realize the promise of God’s power to achieve far more, abundantly beyond all we ask or think (Ep. 3:20).

A great friend and colleague recently shared a number of fun facts about salt, which directly relate to leadership. Let me share one with you.

Salt (sodium chloride) is extremely stable and does not loose its saltiness. But it can be so diluted by surrounding minerals that its saltiness is of little influence. The same is true with leadership. When diluted by worldliness, personal ambition, or negative influence, it is of little influence.” Wayne Roberts

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how will its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.” Mt. 5:13

Thank you, Wayne.

Earlier this month I became the director of SALT (Sunset Academy of Leadership Training).

Although there is a new look and I have a new position, the purpose and direction are the same. The plan is to create healthier churches through leadership development.

Current leaders may need help creating a vision, establishing and strategically planning how to achieve smart goals, or church growth.

We also prepare future leaders through character development and strengthening conviction, passion, and perseverance.

And we assess the make up of a congregation on a spirituality spectrum that aids leaders in knowing members better.

Whatever the congregation may need, we are excited to provide the tools and expertise to help.

The Arbinger Institute’s book, Leadership and Self-Deception, is amazing. There are numerous lessons, but here’s the idea.

We know the right choice to make, but do not make it. We betray ourselves and get into a box of self-deception.

When this happens, we elevate our own virtues and inflate the faults of others, casting blame on their motives, abilities, attitudes, and work ethic.

This vicious cycle keeps us in conflict. We blame others for the problem, yet ignore the real problem centered on a choice we made and our need to justify that choice.

How can we get out of this box? Read the book.

Higher morality calls us to a greater hope, but the only way is through understanding, faith, and a respect for the authority of God’s word. Without it, what purpose is there for achieving a higher morality?

After receiving the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize, Wangari Maathai said, “In the course of history, there comes a time when humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness, to reach a higher moral ground. A time when we have to shed our fear and give hope to each other. That time is now.”

Fifteen years have passed since this thought was expressed and it is just as relevant and needed today.