So often I sit in discussions with guys who say they are stuck in their system. Their church has a committee structure and they feel as though they cannot make a difference because of where they are. Honestly, I agree that the committee or team structure can be cumbersome and a battle of personalities. But, no matter where you are, leadership has to be active. Often, we spend more time complaining about our structure than leading in it.
Let’s look at this from two perspectives. First, active leadership in a committee structured organization:
- Are you developing the leaders on the committees – teaching them how to grow spiritually, make decisions, and clarify the vision for greater impact?
- Are you taking them to lunch, communicating a vision and purpose that makes sense – regularly?
- Are you caring for them and teaching them to care for one another – building relationships or community?
- Are you putting your neck on the line at times for the things that matter and letting go of the things that do not matter (you do not need to win every battle)?
Or, are you just complaining about their lack of leadership (while they wonder if you will ever lead)?
Second, active leadership in a staff lead church. Here’s the deal – you do the same things.
No matter where you are, you leadership has to be active. You have to engage people, have difficult conversations, and lead them to accomplish the vision. If you are paying the people you lead, then you have an advantage. Either way, you have to lead them. So, start leading and quit complaining – it will make a difference in your church!
Thanks for the great reminder, Josh! I think prayer is another important part of the equation. Besides praying for God to have full access to us (and our issues!), we should look for opportunities to pray positively into those we’re struggling with. Whether we pray for them to be blessed or simply praise God that they are faithful servants, it can open the door for the Lord to move us – and sometimes the other person – in a new direction.
Great thoughts! I like thinking that God can use a situation to change both of us, not just “them.” But, I like to focus on “them.”
It is so easy in any structure to develop an “us vs. them” attitude, but we just need to remember we are working together to accomplish the same thing. Whether they fight us or not, we need to lead. A big struggle for me is leading through building relationships. I need to work on that!!!!!!!
We should be taught not to wait for inspiration to start a thing. Action always generates inspiration. Inspiration seldom generates action. – Frank Tibolt