Lead like Josh
When I think of leadership challenges I can't help but to be drawn towards the job Joshua inherited. Can you imagine having to follow up Moses? Just consider a few of the obstacles that Joshua faced: Joshua knew the people and their complaints, Joshua saw God do unbelievable things time and again in and through the life of Moses, Moses was with God when He wrote the 10 commandments, and he was to follow him!
I don't know about you...but if I was Joshua, I would have been extremely reluctant and intimidated to take over. Maybe, that is why God tells Joshua over and over again to be strong and courageous. God also made an important point to tell Joshua..."Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you." (Joshua 1:5)
And as you read through the life of Joshua, you see God continually keep His promise. Thank goodness Joshua obeyed and lived courageously. What does courageous leadership really look like? Below are some thoughts on what courageous leadership really looks like, based on the life of Joshua.
Courageous leaders...
1. Don't bail on everyone when things get tough.
2. Lead by example, expecting others to step up and accomplish big things too.
3. Are willing to make the first move, even if it involves risk.
4. Walk by faith...even when it doesn't make sense or when the outcome is unclear.
5. Protect the vision at whatever the cost.
6. Make hard decisions and implements change even when it might by uncomfortable, criticized, and
unpopular.
I am so thankful to Joshua for being strong and courageous. His willingness to lead has helped me and many others be a better leader. Stay courageous!
A dark side of leadership
Psalm 46 is a great passage to visit in times of distress or busyness- two verses in particular always seem to catch my attention, verses 1 and 10.
Psalm 46:1..."God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" (ESV)
Psalm 46:10..."Be still, and know that I am God. I am will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"
I think busyness can often times be a leaders darkest secret. It can become too easy to keep going, doing, planning, creating, striving, changing, etc. In our ambitions to move at the speed of light, we can many times send our families, friends, employees, and co-workers into a frenzy. Although leading does require doing and all the other things mentioned, it also involves reflecting, resting, sitting, and solitude.
In my own reflections, I often find that my over activity and stubbornness to finish a task can increase my anguish. In these moments of eagerness, it becomes even more important to slow down, ask, and wait on the inward promptings of God's direction. In other words, be patient and let God be God. join me this week by taking some time to slow down and reflect on God's provision and direction over the past year.
Furthermore, I would love to hear about your time of reflection if you get the chance.
4 Dimensions of Leadership for Church Planting
When it comes to church planting...leadership is key! As a church leader, my job is to help others be all that God wants them to be. That's it! But again, if it was only that simple. Here is a glimpse at four different roles, hats, or dimensions that every church planter must wear/do.
1. Self-Leadership…when it comes to the development of the church and other people, you will never reach your potential by neglecting self leadership. I have heard it said over the years that any great leaders devotes 50% of their time to this discipline. At first, that seems like a crazy amount of time...but over the years I have come to find that is what it takes.
2. Visionary Leader…this is about giving hope and a clear picture of the future. This begins by defining reality and pointing clearly to the preferred future. (Think about the why behind the what)
3. Managerial Leadership…now its time for action. Managerial leadership is all about putting feet to vision…it is an essential piece of leading any structure or organization. Nothing moves forward without this piece. Vision remains a dream.
4. Spiritual Leadership…what a privilege it is to be able to wear this hat. Spiritual leaders speak into the lives of those they are accountable for, praying for them, investing in them and who they are becoming in Christ. Care for their soul!!!
1. Self-Leadership…when it comes to the development of the church and other people, you will never reach your potential by neglecting self leadership. I have heard it said over the years that any great leaders devotes 50% of their time to this discipline. At first, that seems like a crazy amount of time...but over the years I have come to find that is what it takes.
2. Visionary Leader…this is about giving hope and a clear picture of the future. This begins by defining reality and pointing clearly to the preferred future. (Think about the why behind the what)
3. Managerial Leadership…now its time for action. Managerial leadership is all about putting feet to vision…it is an essential piece of leading any structure or organization. Nothing moves forward without this piece. Vision remains a dream.
4. Spiritual Leadership…what a privilege it is to be able to wear this hat. Spiritual leaders speak into the lives of those they are accountable for, praying for them, investing in them and who they are becoming in Christ. Care for their soul!!!