LESSONS ON LEADERSHIP
Most leaders are used to keeping people at a 'safe' distance & so don't have people regularly privy to their *uncensored thoughts & lives behind closed doors & out of public eye. Despite all the rational behind such a lifestyle & course of action, this kind of isolation is a breeding ground for all sorts of trouble. We need people.
We should surround ourselves with a circle of trustworthy, loving people who will tell us the truth, no matter what. More than just one or two people - and more than immediate family members. Our circle should Include those from both inside & outside of our ministry's community. Those with whom our contact has real & intentional consistency. Mentors, peers, & friends who are vested in our spiritual health & quality of life. Not just our ministry. We need more than a person, we need people.
Some leaders are more adept at letting people into their thought process & issues, but the conversation content rarely goes beyond the neat parameters of ministry related issues. While it is important to have an outlet to unpack ministry & even "spiritual" issues, if this is the only kind of unpacking we're regulalry involved in, it is not well rounded enough to effect the kind of change & growth & provide the kind of soul support we need as a human beings & as a followers of Christ.
Watch out for the temptation to avoid those God puts in our lives who have a very different personality & perspective than our own. These kind of people can seem intimidating, for sure. Not permitting them access to speak into our life means we may avoid some uncomfortable interactions & perhaps even conflict. But not giving the access will also put us out of reach of the kind of perspectives that can help us look at things in a not so narrow or familiar way. We need a variety of people.
If I were offer a homework assignment, it would be for the leaders in my sphere of influence to
ask God for,
wisely & intentionally assemble,
& consitently connect with
that circle of loving & trustworthy friends.
We all need them.
We need people.