Tag: Spiritual

Directionally Challenged Leaders…

The problem? “I have no idea where I am going.”

A directionally challenged leader will always struggle. If we do not know where we are going, how can we lead anyone there? 

When spiritual leaders are directionally challenged, we have an even greater problem. 

What can we do?

Set smart goals. Goals need to be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time bound.

Look to the finish line. Distractions abound and we can easily get off course. Focus on a goal.

Trust in the Word. Amidst the numerous voices vying to be heard, one is constant. Listen to it!

Be open to learn. Never stop learning and being open to learn.

Knowing where we are going eliminates most challenges.

The Pressure of Leading…

What creates pressure? Confrontation? Health problems? Finances? Family issues? Spiritual conflict?

Why do we feel pressure? Fear? Guilt? Regret? Conviction?

Leaders will always face pressure. Spiritual leadership further increases this pressure because of the eternal consequences weighed in the balance of each decision.

However, when the fear of pressure prevents us from dealing with issues, we are only delaying greater pressure with graver consequences.

As the song encourages, “Rise up O men of God! Have done with lesser things. Give heart and mind and soul and strength to serve the King of kings.”

Accept that pressure exists, but address it with biblical focus.

Leading in the Present…

The idea is about being present in the moment. It is challenging to provide good, spiritual leadership if we are not there when needed. 

But, we need to see something deeper in this idea of being present. 

Beyond the physical, the thought is one of being engaged intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.

Leaders must be present, focused on the person and/or situation. To be physically present, but unengaged leaves the impression we do not care, we are distracted, or our priorities are not in the best interest of those we lead.

Be present, in that moment and give undivided attention to the other person.

A Cause To Lead…

Passion drives our efforts in relationship to specific causes. The causes range from self-preservation to self-gratification.

At times we labor in a cause that provides for the physical wellbeing of others. We even appreciate the value of a cause that preserves the wellbeing of the planet.

As leaders it is vital that we develop a vision for the spiritual cause of Christ.

We labor diligently to provide for the physical future of our families. We should also consider their spiritual and eternal future with the same intensity.

Of all the causes worth leading, let us lead others to an eternal future.

Details Matter…

Details make a difference. 

Spiritual leadership involves a number of significant areas within the church and our world. If not careful, we can easily lose sight of the details only to focus on what we see as a larger, big picture, idea of scripture and the work.

At times it may be a word, phrase, or suggestion, but those details bring a wealth of blessing to our leadership. We will also find it provides a great blessing to those who follow.

While we pour ourselves into our study of scripture, let us take time to observe and pay attention to the details God intends for us to learn.

Dependence on God…

On the heels of July 4th, here are a couple of thoughts.

Our world continually fights for independence. 

On an international level, countries strive to achieve their freedom. They want to stand on their own, make their own way, establish their own direction.

On a professional level, the business world demonstrates similar areas as individuals and companies work for financial liberty.

On a personal level, if not careful, we train our children to do the same. We urge them to grow up and learn how to make it on their own.

From a spiritual perspective, we need to teach a greater dependence on God and let Him take care of the rest.

Source of Leadership…

Think about the value of a source.

Finding a source for pure water can mean life to a community. Acquiring a source for financial stability secures the future.

We would also agree that a source for salvation changes the eternal destiny of the world. 

Thankfully, God has provided a plan through which Jesus became the source of eternal salvation to all those who obey Him.

As leaders, are we a source through which people obtain God’s grace?

Are we a source for others to grow spiritually?

Let us pray that more see the need to stand in the fight against the spiritual forces of darkness and be a source of light.

Remembering Our Leadership…

We do not have the space to explore all the ways our mind works, or how much of the brain remains untapped.

It is fascinating just to think about the ability we have to remember. Spiritual leaders must consider that people remember what they see longer than what they hear. Therefore, how will our leadership be remembered?

Will it be remembered for our words or actions?
Will it be remembered for being a servant?

Leadership illuminates our lives and, sadly, our lives are lived under a microscope. 

Before we speak or act, it is worth the time to consider how we want our leadership will be remembered.

More to Leadership…

We have all heard the offer for a product followed up with, “But wait, there’s more.” At this point the offer is usually doubled.

We always find a great deal associated with leadership, “But wait, there’s more.” 

Leadership is more than power.
Leadership is more than position.
Leadership is more than a title.
Leadership is more than influence.

There will always be more regarding spiritual leadership. If we approach the task with humility and love, we can realize growth in the church and bring glory to our God.

But wait, there’s more! 

If we act now, more souls will enjoy the beauty of heaven. Think Souls!

Positional Leadership…

One of the great myths of leadership is the positional myth, i.e. “I cannot lead unless I have a position, or once I have a position then I will be able to lead.”

While we do not have to have a position to lead, this position comes with a responsibility. Spiritual leaders are positioned with a responsibility, a responsibility to help others…

…understand there is hope for the future.
…reach their full potential in spiritual maturity.
…obtain their eternal inheritance.

Several years ago, I heard this equation: ability + opportunity = responsibility. After some thought, doesn’t it sound like a good position?