I was looking back at some notes and found these thoughts that I had been asked to prepare as a back up for a Ground Level (our network of churches) leaders meeting. I didn’t get to use them that day so I thought we could enjoy them here
Romans 12:6-8
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”
Exodus 40:33-34
And so Moses finished the work. Then the glory covered the tent…
I love this verse about Moses. It shows us that there’s God’s work happening but it also shows us that there’s our work that is happening and that God is willing to partner and participate with us. That God is willing and wanted for us to participate and partner with him in his work.
One of the ways we can do that is by stewarding well the following 10 things, making sure that they are never lost to us.
1. NERVE:
A leader mustn’t lose their nerve. Even when it seems that you are moving slowly or in the wrong direction. Even when you are not sure about the destination…just keep going, keep your nerve, stay patient, don’t jettison this moment. Remember, success is doing the right thing for long enough.
2. THE ATMOSPHERE
The environment that you create is vital to growth and life. Make sure that there’s some buzz around within your world. Don’t let the atmosphere around your life and your work be controlled by other forces, especially if those forces are negative and toxic. Take responsibility and take control of the atmosphere.
A leader mustn’t lose the atmosphere.
3. PASSION
Do what you have to do to keep your passion high for what you do. Learn how to replenish. Learn how your unique personality responds to life and situations and don’t apologise for what you need to do in order to keep your passion high.
A leader cannot lose their passion.
4. SENSE OF FUN
I am amazed at how young people can go from wild activity (like tribal wars) to worship so quickly. I know at one point I would of questioned the authenticity of their worship, but not any more. Ps 100:2 says,
Serve (Worship) the Lord with gladness
Whatever our field of work we need to keep our fun side alive.
“The number one premise of business is that it need not be boring or dull. It ought to be fun. If it’s not fun, you’re wasting your life.” – Tom Peters
5. COURAGE
Leading requires courage, we all know that. Not everything is settled as you step forward, not everyone will agree. Be strong and very courageous. Michael Jordan’s quote sums this up.
I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed. – Michael Jordan
A leader cannot lose courage.
6. RHYTHM
Rhythms possess more power than encounter. The reason that I say this is because it is our habits that form our deepest loves. It is highly likely that our Rhythms have contributed more to the people that we are today than anything else.
A leader must find and keep their rhythm, their groove. An encounter (one-time dramatic experience) may well change the rhythm of our life but undoubtedly it is the rhythm itself that holds sway. What is your rhythm? What are the things that you do that make you who you are?
Keep Your Rhythm
Paul Benger 