Spiritual Leadership Part 2
As I mentioned yesterday, I think the Spiritual Leadership dimension is the most unique and one of the most critical dimensions that we need to learn to develop as leaders, especially faith-based leaders.
In the book Spiritual Leadership
When spiritual leaders have done their jobs, the people around them have encountered God and obeyed his will.
Blake talked yesterday about the importance of relational leadership and I really believe that is the starting point of spiritual leadership. We’ve all heard the Bible-thumping, hell, fire and brimstone types. There’s nothing about that approach that “moves me towards God’s agenda.”
Spiritual leadership begins with influence which begins with relationships.
I remember several years ago when I worked in a corporate environment and had the opportunity to influence many peers and co-workers. Some of them were believers and we naturally gravitated to one another to discuss spiritual things, ask for prayer and just hang out. Out of our relationships flowed the opportunity to speak into each others lives about what God was teaching us and where He was stretching us to grow in our faith. But the moments I remember most vividly were the chances that I had to share with those who were not believers. As we got to know one another, I learned more about their families, their dreams and their fears. I took it as a great compliment when one of these individuals would show up at my door and say “hey, can I ask you something?”. That was usually followed by a concern or frustration that they wanted counsel in navigating. It could have been work related. It could have been a family issue. But regardless, it gave me an opportunity to share truth; to speak God’s word into their lives.
Spiritual leadership is a sensitivity to engaging the conversations that help lead people closer to God.
In the midst of our managing, visioning, and self-leading we also have to be intentional to find ways to lead others spiritually. It probably won’t come at a convenient time. It probably won’t be work-related. But it will be worth it.
It is the distinctive that sets you apart as a faith-based leader.
What are some ways that you are a spiritual leader for your team?
Making sure I am constantly in prayer and in His word is key for me. When I am asked “What should I do?” or “What do you think?” I know I have to give an account for my answer. If I am to lead these women into all that God has for them,then I want to make sure my relationship with Him is consistent.
Michelle, that is so true. We’re responsible for how we lead. Thank you for adding to the discussion!
Working as a History and English teacher, the opportunities are endless. One of the things I’ve noticed is that my kids ask SO MANY QUESTIONS. It’s hard to stop in the middle of a lecture but I try to imagine each incident as the “last chance” to reach them for Christ.
So, my willingness to answer questions has led them to feel comfortable ask even more questions. They know I won’t chew them out for asking things some adults wouldn’t be comfortable answering.
The kids are also given the opportunity to “own” the Bible study we started. I do very little teaching and challenge the kids to read and study God’s word so that they can share with one another what God is saying and doing among their peers. They’ve bought into it and willingly sacrifice part of their lunch period to hear the Word from each other or from me.
Of course, all of this is risky and if I drop the ball, I don’t get cut cards from responsibility. They are watching my every move and listening to my every word. So I can’t distract them from the Cross
Jenni: Good article. You may want to check out a post I made awhile back on the same subject. http://www.spiritoforganization.com/dr-greg-waddell/leadership/268-what-does-spiritual-leadership-look-like