Is there one key issue you know that you need to address in your organization that you have put off because of fear? The fear may be of dealing with the consequences, explaining to someone that they are not a good fit or needing to make a major shift that you know has unknowns attached to it.
Leadership fear that paralyzes action you know must be taken is not uncommon. You are in good company - but also dangerous company. Leaders suffer from it. Boards suffer from it. Fear is normal but not acting because of it is leadership default.
Inability to address necessary issues can increase with our longevity as leaders. The longer we have been in a position the more we have to lose if we rock the boat. So it is easy to look the other way or even to figure our successor will take care of it. If you inherited such issues from your predecessor you know how well that works!
Often our inability to act comes from confusing the issue we need to address with the question of how we should do it. These are two very different questions. The first question is what do we need to do and once we are clear on that the second is how do we do it.
If you have an issue, don't ignore it but make a conscious decision as to what you need to do. Then, start thinking through the strategy for how you can best address it with as little fallout as possible.
Remember that doing the right thing honors God, is what we are called to do in our leadership roles and is critical to the health and missionality of the ministry. I have been amazed at how God has gone before me when I have done the right thing even if it was the hard thing.
Being willing to address those issues we know we should address is not only a matter of courage but of faith. Do we believe that God honors leaders who do what is best? Do we trust him for the wisdom to do it in a way that is prudent? Do we believe that if He is prompting us to act that He will act on our behalf as well?
Most of us know when we need to act on something. The question is whether our faith or fear will win out. As Paul said, if God has given one the gift of leadership, lead!
2 comments:
I am taking a graduate class entitled 'Theology of Ministry' and was asked to identify a blog that is consistent with an area I believe is important for the 21st century. After prayer, I decided to look for blogs that address how the church can be relevant and effective. It took some time to find a blog that was spoke to this issue and I am glad to know that I can continue to visit this site as a resource in the future. This particular blog was a very powerful word for me and important for the church. I find that I am often the voice that points out issues or problem areas. Therefore, I sometimes hesitate to address areas that can be improved. My action or inaction is part of the problem and as you point out not the will of God. I'm encouraged by this word and will pray and take action in this area.
Carla
I am taking a graduate class entitled 'Theology of Ministry' and was asked to identify a blog that is consistent with an area I believe is important for the 21st century. After prayer, I decided to look for blogs that address how the church can be relevant and effective. It took some time to find a blog that was spoke to this issue and I am glad to know that I can continue to visit this site as a resource in the future. This particular blog was a very powerful word for me and important for the church. I find that I am often the voice that points out issues or problem areas. Therefore, I sometimes hesitate to address areas that can be improved. My action or inaction is part of the problem and as you point out not the will of God. I'm encouraged by this word and will pray and take action in this area.
Carla
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