I’ve been slowly reading a book Phil Strout gave me called “Heroic Leadership” by Chris Lowney. It has some amazing insights on leadership and has been shaping some priorities of many of our regional and national leaders (notice the title of this year’s national conference?). Well, I thought I’d share a small section where he describes some priorities of leadership that are different than what you might expect, and good to keep in sight. Leaders….
- Are always teaching and always learning
- Mold brilliant and eminent men and women
- Persevere
- Energize themselves by the sheer ambition of their heroic goals
- Innovate by approaching their challenges in ways their predecessors never imagined
- Devote themselves to excellence
- Remain open to new ideas, even in old age
- Honor the truth above their egos
- Influence others by their example, their ideas, and their coaching
Two ways that this challenges and encourages me are, first, to innovate in the face of obstacles. We constantly are met by obstacles in youth ministry. Currently I’ve lost two crucial members of my worship team, and my group has slowly shrunk. In the face of this, my leadership team and I have been forced to see opportunity where there is frustration. And God has been providing. We switched nights, and our numbers are growing again! And, I’ve been getting subs for our worship team who don’t even go to youth group, and they’ve been getting touched!
Second, the idea of molding brilliant men and women by example, and specifically by coaching. I want to, and need to, do this more. I’m trying to learn, rather than doing everything myself, to replicate myself. To impart my gifts, wisdom, experience, rather than just show off how much I’ve learned. This is a hard transition for me. I’ve realized that I have been doing things my way for a long time! But I need to let go, and see others do it their way, with my support. Challenging.
Which ones stick out to you and why?
Christian, seriously, you are right on man. I also am reading that book as well as “Youth Ministries Revolution” by Ron Luce and have been so convicted on leadership and excellence. God has created us for growth and if we are not growing and moving forward then we are falling behind. it is a blessing to be serving with so many leaders that are seeking growth. I am praying for you bro, keep growing and leading and duplicate yourself fast!!!
Jeremy – I actually really liked that book too. I know some people who have problems with his style and approach, but for me personally, that book was challenging. It made me take youth ministry more seriously and think more creatively. It is still bearing fruit in my life.