Church leadership is always a challenge. Not just every now and then, but always – and everywhere.
As I have the opportunity to work with pastors and church leaders, I find that they all face challenges -even in the best of churches. I used to believe that if I could ever work in _______ (fill in with your own dream church), then things would be so much better.
Maybe you have felt the same way. You look around and it just seems so much easier over “there”. They have better facilities, finances, leadership, location, committed members, worship, youth… well, you get the idea.
Anything has to be better, and easier…right?
Here’s what I learned. It is hard everywhere. Leadership doesn’t get easy just because you are doing well as a church. In fact, the pressure is HUGE for a church that is viewed as successful. Keeping momentum while maintaining direction and vision is no easy task. Things take on a life of their own and have large implications.
So here are the basics:
- Have a Clear Vision – keep things out of the “personal opinion” realm. Make decisions based on the Vision.
- Build a Committed Team – you need people who will work with you and for you, and some that will tell you the painful truth.
- Know and Keep Your Values – these are the boundary markers for how you will make decisions and fulfill the Vision.
- Don’t Take Yourself So Seriously – remember that “grace” thing you were the recipient of? Accept and extend grace – it makes you a better person.
Leading is challenging, but can be incredibly rewarding when done well.
