Weekly Thought – July 31,2018
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A Leadership Born of Faith
As I think about spiritual leadership, I become convinced that the key is in the Holy Spirit’s energizing and directing the leader’s uniqueness and gifts by giving him or her a vision that creates a passion. I have never known a lazy or confused leader who had a clear sense of passion.
For twenty years I’ve been writing for Christian leaders. I’ve spoken to many groups, large and small. I realize this is a difficult time to be a Christian leader in an almost totally secular society whose great renewed interest in spirituality is cultish, not Biblical. Christian leaders have lost of the respect they once held. Burnout is common. Depression is almost epidemic. And stress seems to be the norm. Immorality and divorce are increasing. Short tenures become the rules rather than the exception. More and more preachers and teachers are faced with the demand for entertainment in their message and excitement in their programs.
Could a major part of the problem be that leaders have lost their vital identification with the Lord? Have they become convinced they work for the congregants’ acceptance rather than for God? Those who feel they work as employees of the church board surrender their spiritual leadership and authority.
I believe spiritual leadership is based on faith in God’s provision and direction. It is a calling, not a career. I have great respect for a prominent minister who privately told me, “I would be glad to get out of the ministry if God would let me off the hook. In fact, if He doesn’t keep me in it, I want out.” But I know he wouldn’t want out if this is where God has him.
It is possible, even probable, that some in Christian leadership are misplaced. Leaders who are not endowed with gifts energized by the Spirit become easy prey for the human methodology of leadership. This opens them to the temptations of power, prestige, and money. Those who are there by the working of the Spirit have a calling to fulfill, not a profession to pursue. They have a strong feeling of stewardship but little feeling of ownership. They are great by serving. They know joy!
This week think about: 1) How diligently am I praying for my pastor? 2) What am I called to do for the Kingdom? 3) Who needs a word of encouragement from me this week?
Words of Wisdom: “I have never known a lazy or confused leader who had a clear sense of passion.”
Wisdom from the Word: “I am saying this for your benefit, not to place a limitation on you, but so that without distraction you may give notable and constant service to the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 7:35 NET Bible)