Leadership Through Love
Having been an administrator for decades, having to hire and fire staff, has given me a few insights into people and who they are.
Once I hired a young man some months before his wedding date, and then had to fire him due to lack of incentive and commitment to the job. Tough for him. And me. (John was still a very good softball player. He could hit it a mile.)
Looking for the right skills and character in a candidate for the position has its challenges. Can they do the job? Do they respect authority? Do they want to learn or will they already “know it all?” (i.e They have a college degree. I did my one semester only. True.)
You do all the right, somewhat proven and taught methods of selecting the right one, man or woman. But then I found the way that worked the best for me.
Hold on. I will tell you. For both my secular and ministry leadership positions.
I prayed. Yes, I asked the Holy Spirit Who He knew was the one to fit. Sure, I got it wrong once (maybe twice) as above, but I can honestly say that the ones He showed me worked. And fit. And did the job.
I loved my staff. I appreciated them. I honored them. They knew they were really part of the team, and not someone I “used” to further my achievements or my goals. They were just as important as I was. And they knew it.
Relationships have to start with a love for the people, for the ones the Lord has you walk with, serve with, and accomplish His goals together.
It is not about “my ministry, my accomplishments, my spotlight” opportunities.
It is about Him and His people. Love them. Serve them. Achieve together with them.
This also applies to the many volunteers who serve faithfully, often “beyond the call of duty”, with churches, ministries, and many other organizations.
For His glory and honor. Yeah Lord!
“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace,17 comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word.” 2 Thess.. 2:16-17 NASB
Ahava and shalom,
Steve Martin
One of you.
