The Heart of Leadership: Guiding Principles for Ministry and Life
In today’s information age, we’re often led to believe that the key to solving the world’s problems lies in uncovering the right data and solutions. However, as Christians, we recognize that true wisdom and leadership begin with a fundamental conviction: God speaks. Through His world, Word, and works, He reveals Himself to us, providing a framework for understanding reality in all its complexity.
Listening for God’s Voice
The first step for leaders is to listen for God’s voice. When we’ve heard from Him, we can move beyond mere values to deep convictions that resonate in our hearts and are embodied in our lives. But having convictions alone is not enough; we need imagination to connect them to the ever-changing world around us. This is where creative leaders come in – they imagine the way forward, guided by God’s infinite imagination.
Courage in the Face of Uncertainty
Courageous leaders expose themselves to uncertainty and risk, but this courage doesn’t come from within; it comes from the invulnerable God who made Himself vulnerable for us. God’s mission teaches us courage, compelling us to join Him with a threefold motivation: His command, the gospel’s compulsion, and the Spirit’s movement. As we follow God’s lead, we’re empowered to move forward with courageous love.
Collaborative Leadership
God’s story of redemption is rooted in community, beginning with the Trinity – the perfect covenant community. To lead together, people must grow in unity and maturity, requiring organizational clarity and personal vision. Collaborative leadership thrives when individuals adapt, exercise autonomy, and navigate ambiguity.
Resting in God’s Presence
In contrast to the American church’s tendency to settle for a subhuman life, God invites us to share in His eternal rest and perpetual joy. Our union with Christ gives us access to the intra-Trinitarian life, where we experience the Father’s love through the Son’s work and the Spirit’s fellowship. Contemplative leaders who’ve experienced this communion are able to give their transformed presence to others.
Communing with God
To have communion with others, we first must commune with God. We must abide in Him to encourage those we lead. As we prioritize our relationship with God, we’ll become leaders who embody the principles of listening, imagination, courage, collaboration, and rest – guiding others toward a brighter future.
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