Monday, August 17, 2009

 

More on Leadership...

So some of you got me to thinking some more about leadership. So I started working on why it is that leaders get frustrated when the flock, family, or team will not "buy in" to their vision. We talk about the need for new leadership, but worry that no one will let them lead. I would suggest that if no one is following you... you are not a leader. You may want to be -- but you are not. I would think the prime definition of a leader is that someone follows them.

So what keeps people from following you.

It could be you have the wrong vision. No one wants to hear this, but it may be true. When the rest of your leadership team (elders, spouse, staff, committee) will not follow you, it may be because you are wrong.

It could be that you do not have the credibility to sell your vision. Spiritual credibility comes from two primary avenues. One is the Word. But as a leader, I better be clear on this appeal. Everyone may not agree with my interpretation of what a text means. For example, refusal to adopt a certain model for missions does not mean a rejection of the Great Commission. So be careful when you appeal to what God says.

Or it could be that your personal credibility is lacking. Obviously your life should reflect you visions as a leader. But it takes time to develop credibility in the life of a church. It takes a lot of baptisms, weddings, burials, hospital visits, counseling, and fellowship to build leadership credibility.

Or it may be that you have not communicated your vision clearly. People will not follow what they do not understand.

Or it may be a combination of things. So when you are frustrated that no one is following your leadership, ask these questions. Am I right? Do I have the credibility to ask people to follow? Have I clearly communicated the vision and/or direction?

Well, just my thoughts. What about yours?

Comments:
You are speaking volumes! A lot of people in leadership positions have never really looked in the mirror. They don't want the questions turned back on them. They are certain of their decisions, because they have prayed about it with tunnel vision.
We are a proudful people and can't understand why our humble spirits are not understood or appreciated.
A true christian leader becomes so naturally through a willingness to expose themselves to God and live a life God leads them towards.
 
Ridgel, you dont pull any punches do you? A leader it seems has at least two attributes, he has somewhere to go, and the ability to pursuade others to go with him. Ive learned the hard way, some just share your vision, and others will just refuse. Peace brother, keep on leading. philip sims. haskell
 
Humility and focus on God. I appreciate that. And Phil, I have some sense that you may be on to something. God forward and not be so concerned with what everyone does.

and you are right -- I've never been very good at pulling punches :)
 
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