Influence Through Self-Definition
May 2007
Leadership is not about competency and productivity, as we have been led to believe. Our culture values action over contemplation, individualism over community, speed over endurance, fame over humility and success over the satisfied soul. – Bill Hull
A fundamental assumption in most literature on leadership is that a few will need to control the many. Throughout history the subtle belief that someone must tell the masses how to live has remained. This assumption leads to a search for power that encompasses an either/or mindset and results in anxious organizations (and churches) and limits the ability to learn and change.
Most common definitions of leadership begin with statements such as that made by popular writer John Maxwell, “Look around and see if someone is following… if they are, then you are a leader.”
Many consider leadership a position to seek rather than a role to fulfill. When viewed through the lens of power, position, and privilege, leadership is a scarce resource that should be protected. However, when viewed through a different lens, leadership is a responsibility… a necessary role that must emerge from each individual regardless of his or her education, experience, or position in the church. For sustainable change to take root, this personal responsibility approach to leadership needs to exist at every level in our churches.
The alternative view of leadership that I recommend is primarily an effort to understand and align yourself and others with the undeniable and already stated purposes of God. Our challenge as leaders is not to struggle with the difficulties of change but to help align hearts with the desires of God. This offers the greatest point of leverage in any organization, churches included. Are you using the leverage God has provided?
God bless you as you serve and lead in His name.
It is common knowledge that over 80% of churches in the United States operate in a state of maintenance rather than mission.
The KNCSB ReFocusing process can assist your church break out of the maintenance mode, align itself with the stated purposes of God, and break-through to His intended harvest.
If you would like to know more about how to break out of the maintenance mode and receive a free copy of The ABC’s of ReFocusing contact me at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call (316) 204-5632.
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Past Columns
- KS-NE Southern Baptists Making A Difference April 2010
- Making A Difference In Haiti March 2010
- First Place In A Different Race January 2010
- Body Building September 2009
- Honoring Leaders August 2009
- Preparing For Tomorrow July 2009
- Leading Healthy Churches June 2009
- The Challenge - Christian Leadership Development May 2009
- The Five Habits Of Effectiveness: Insights From Leaders Who Have Finished Well March 2009
- The DNA Of Revitalization February 2009
- More Columns from Leading from the Heart