Leaders Develop Leaders
When I started in student ministry, I was insecure as a leader. I didn’t have a clear identity of who I was as a man, and I didn’t have a developed internal character. So, my leadership style and the health of the student ministry depended on ME. I didn’t realize it at the time, but the ministry became stagnant within a few short years, and I became more insecure.
Insecure leaders hold on to ministry.
Insecure leaders refuse to give ministry way. They don’t develop leaders in their organization. They hold on to ministry, often thinking the ministry DEPENDS on them.
One of my main issues was that I only surrounded myself with students. I had no adult leaders on my team (maybe a few adults, but I didn’t know how to lead them).
I had potential adult leaders, but they often told me “no” to join the student ministry team. Looking back, I believe they told me “no” because they could see my inability to lead them effectively.
I had to grow or go.
My Senior Pastor pulled me aside and started to coach me. One thing I had going for me was that I was teachable. He helped me identify weaknesses in my leadership and held me accountable for growth. As I grew in my identity and leadership, the student ministry grew. I was able to add new adult leaders to the student ministry team. Those leaders attracted additional leaders as well.
There is a correlation between the personal growth of the leader and the growth of the organization.
If the leader grows, the organization will grow. But growth has to be intentional. My Senior Pastor was able to see my insecurities, and I was teachable enough to listen and grow.
Leaders Must Assess Their Identity:
As a leader, how are you attracting other leaders?
Do those leaders stick around, or do you experience high turnover in your ministry?
Are you listening to “truth-tellers” in your life and leadership?
Do you have an “open” or “teachable” stance to input about your leadership from those you currently lead?
Do you have an intentional plan for personal, relational, professional growth? What is it?
How to Take Charge As a Leader:
Healthy leaders develop other leaders, and leadership development starts with you. No one is going to care more about your personal growth than you. So, be a leader and lead yourself and your growth. Then, start reaching out and building your team.
Did You Know
Terry Porter is an executive life coach that helps his clients reach their goals – Click Here to learn more.
NOTES:
James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner (2006). A Leader’s Legacy. Jossey-Bass Publishing.
Cloud, Dr. Henry (2009). Changes That Heal: Four Practical Steps To A Happier, Healthier You. Zondervan Publishing.
Cloud, Dr. Henry (2006, January). Integrity, The Courage To Face The Demands Of Reality. Harper-Collins Publishing.
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