A leader’s world can spin so fast there’s barely an opportunity to focus on God. But like Olympic divers who regularly orient themselves to the water so they can enter it splash-free – being intentional in our pursuit of God is essential to good leadership. At our staff’s weekly Body of Christ time in early […]

When we’re offended as leaders, it’s tempting to keep track of every jot and tittle – especially when it’s a long-standing, multi-layered conflict. We want to hold court and hold the offending party accountable for each aspect. But is that Jesus’ way? In my early years of ministry, an offense from another ministry leader rose […]

If you’re a typical leader, hard conversations come with the territory. When human beings with their unique personalities and perspectives work side-by-side – sparks can fly. Let’s unpack the dynamics and look for ways to keep conversations productive, not explosive. Hard conversations usually follow disagreements, which often stem from different viewpoints. Let’s use the tale […]

Great leaders surround themselves with other great leaders. They’re not afraid to have significant bench strength – a team of talented individuals who shine in their own right. That’s not to say they don’t occasionally wince with envy while applauding an associate’s success. If you can relate – you’re in good company, and Jesus has […]

If you’re scratching your head trying to remember your last retreat, it was probably too long ago. Leaders in every capacity face challenges that require wisdom and deplete reserves. Regularly getting away for focused time with God is a Christ-like habit worth forming. I was five or six years into full-time ministry when the fabric […]

As relentless as leadership demands are, wise leaders follow Jesus’ example of “walking away from it all” to be with their Father. Whether it’s several days at the beginning or end of the year, a day each quarter, or something else – a rhythm of spiritual refueling and retooling is vital to healthy leadership. Let’s […]

I’ve been reading John 13-17 for the past few weeks, and here’s an amazing truth the Spirit highlighted to me recently: It’s a single word from John 13:1 – “Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father.” Did you catch it? Jesus’ description of where He was […]

For starters, let’s define the ball. As leaders, our minds readily go to the strategic plan or the upcoming board meeting. These aren’t bad things to focus on, but there’s something even better. Or I should say Someone. God is the “ball” we want to keep our eye on and be postured toward. I’ll unpack […]