Ministerial Challenges: XYZ
God has called ministers to lead. Every effective leader either blazes a trail….or trails behind the blazers. We are to focus clearly and speak distinctly. However, we cannot lift anyone above our own spiritual level. Most of the real limitations in leadership are internal. If we do not grow, our churches cannot. Too often, we just want to exchange eyeglasses with one another. We then see things differently, but not clearly. Most people are stuck, not because they don’t have a dream but because they fear change. Many are trapped in old school autocratic genre. They micro-manage because they fear the one model that really works: team leadership.
Since the 1920’s, psychologists have sought to classify generational differences in American society:
The Silent Generation (1928 – 1945)
The Baby Boomers (1946 – 1964)
Gen X (1965-1979)
Gen Y , or Millennials (1980 – 1994)
Gen Z, or Post-Millennials (1995 – )
Knowledge requires perpetual re-definition, for everything in our world is in flux. Each successive generation struggles to define themselves by asking pertinent questions. However, the real answer is still the same – knowing Jesus Christ personally. We have new rules for our new century, but only one playbook: God’s Word. Yet how many diligently study these regulations for salvation and true success? Line up all the lost persons in the USA alone, and the line would go around the world 2.5 times….and this line grows another half-mile every single day.
Leadership is not about ability, but about responsibility and spirituality, self-awareness, vision, values, relationships, self-discipline, balance, influence, integrity, obedience, faithfulness, and maturity. Leaders are shaped best by priorities, not pressures. Characteristics of good leaders include credibility, courage, competence, commitment, capability, consistency, and communication. Here are a few power-phrases to ponder:
BUILD ON ROCK – Matthew 7:24
ACCEPT HIS YOKE – Matthew 11:28
REDEEM THE TIME – Ephesians 5:16
TEACH ALL NATIONS – Matthew 28:19
RESIST THE DEVIL – James 4:7
PRAY WITHOUT CEASING – I Thessalonians 5:17
DENY THE SELF – Matthew 16:24
SEEK THE KINGDOM – Luke 12:31
DRINK LIVING WATER – John 4:14
SPEAK IN LOVE – Ephesians 4:15
ENDURE THE CROSS – Hebrews 12:2
BE SPIRIT LED – Romans 8:14
In this short list can be found such principles as time management, world evangelism, intercessory prayer, self-denial, forgiveness, perseverance, kindness, and positive attitude. Only as a church, ministry or mission is founded on clear Biblical principles can it focus clearly and reach every generation for Christ.