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A Flexibility Born of Faith

   As I think about spiritual leadership, I become convinced that the key is the Holy Spirit energizing and directing the leader's uniqueness and gifts by giving him or her a vision that creates a passion. I have never known a lazy or confused leader who had a clear sense of passion.

   For twenty years I've been writing for Christian leaders. I've spoken to many groups, both large and small. I realize that it is a difficult time to be a Christian spiritual leader in an almost totally secular society whose great renewed interest in spirituality is cultish, not Christian. Christian leaders have lost much of the respect they once had in society. Burnout is common. Depression is almost epidemic. And stress seems to be growing. Immorality and divorce seem to be increasing. Short tenure is becoming too common. More and more preachers and teachers are faced with the demand for entertainment in their message and excitement in their programs.

   Could a major part of the problem be that leaders have lost their vital identification with the Lord? Have they become convinced they work for the church rather than for God? Those who feel they work for a church board surrender their authority in spiritual leadership.

   I believe there is a flexibility in spiritual leadership that is based on faith in God's provision and direction. It is a calling, not a career. I have great respect for a prominent minister who privately says, “I would be glad to get out of the ministry if God would let me off the hook. In fact, if he doesn't keep me in it, I want out of it.”

   It is possible, even probable, that some in Christian leadership are misplaced. Leaders who are not endowed with gifts energized by the Spirit become easy prey to the human methodology of leadership. This opens them to the temptation of power, prestige, and money. The three individuals I have been discussing never show any signs of insecurity in what they do. They seem to have the flexibility born of faith. They didn't manipulate their way into leadership, nor are they going to manipulate their staying there. They have a calling to fulfill, not a profession to pursue. Each has a strong feeling of stewardship but little feeling of ownership. They are great by serving. They know joy!