Weekly Thought Archives > Integrity of Leadership

Integrity of Leadership

As I think about spiritual leadership, I am convinced the key is the Holy Spirit’s energizing and directing the leader’s uniqueness and giftedness by giving him or her a vision that creates a passion.

I have never known a lazy or confused leader who was clearly passionate.

Oat Willie of Austin, Texas, charged "Onward, through the fog." It works for cartoon characters, but fails miserably as a leadership mantra.

For years, I have been writing articles targeted to Christian leaders. I have spoke to groups, large and small. I realize it is difficult to be a Christian leader in an almost totally secular society interestd in nonbiblical spirituality. Christian leaders have lost much of the respect they once enjoyed. Burnout is common. Depression is almost epidemic. Stress is increasing. Immorality and divorce are more prominent. Short tenure is too much the rule, rather than the exception. More and more preachers are faced with the demand to entertain and excite.

Could a major part of this 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? Are they surrendering their spiritual authority to the church board?

Some in Christian leadership are misplaced. Remember the farmer who read a "GP" in the clouds, immediately left the field, and headed for the pulpit? After he failed as a pastor, the word came down from above: "Farmer Brown, "GP" meant go plow, not go preach!"

Leaders who are not endowed with gifts energized by the Spirit become easy prey to human methodology and open themselves to the temptations of power, prestige, and money. Christian leaders should always remember that theirs is a calling, not a career -- that it’s all about stewardship, not ownership.

This week consider: 1) How clear is my leadership? 2) What is my definition of integrity? 3) What can I do to encourage my pastor?

Words of Wisdom: "I have never known a lazy or confused leader who was clearly passionate."

Wisdom from the Word: "I have had great joy and encouragement because of your love, for the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, brother." (Philemon 1:9 NET Bible)