Easy victories are the leader's worst enemy. Adversity and difficult situations break us out of that rut and bring out our creative strengths. Life’s greatest lessons come from our greatest challenges. Remember how the caterpillar has to struggle from its cocoon to become a fully grown butterfly. We too grow to be all God wants us to be through the struggles. And struggles can make you bitter. . .or make you better.
So look for what God is trying to teach you the next time you face a challenge. In the oldest book in the Bible, the book of Job, Job says: “After these trials, I will come forth as gold.” Look for the gold in this refining process.
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Failure is a great option
Thomas Edison is known for his many successes. But for every successful product, there were thousands of scrapped failures. However, each failure was a learning step to ultimate success.
So, don’t waste a good failure. We can learn from our failures.
I should be very successful. I’ve had many lessons from the college of hard knocks.
Paul the 1st Century Apostle talked about all the wonderful experiences as a leader, but then said there were these thorns in the flesh that kept him from becoming too proud. He concluded that when we are weak, God’s strength shows up in weak people. We should be happy about our failures knowing God works all things for the good of those who love Him and are the called according to his purpose.
So, don’t waste a good failure. We can learn from our failures.
I should be very successful. I’ve had many lessons from the college of hard knocks.
Paul the 1st Century Apostle talked about all the wonderful experiences as a leader, but then said there were these thorns in the flesh that kept him from becoming too proud. He concluded that when we are weak, God’s strength shows up in weak people. We should be happy about our failures knowing God works all things for the good of those who love Him and are the called according to his purpose.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Take It From the Top
Top-down management is not a popular management style. We prefer a more interactive, participative, bubble-up style. However, there are some things that must come from the top.
For example: Mission—who are we? What’s our purpose? We need to put it in words for everyone to know and understand.
And values: What do we stand for? What’s important to us in the way we operate and treat others?
Mentoring: Do we have a plan for replacing people when they move up or move on? Have we identified the next generation of leaders? Are we preparing them for future leadership roles?
And intervention: Are we willing to make the hard calls to move people out who don’t fit?
Paul, the 1st Century Apostle gave this top-down counsel: Follow me in the same way I follow Christ.
--Wayne Pederson
_______
For example: Mission—who are we? What’s our purpose? We need to put it in words for everyone to know and understand.
And values: What do we stand for? What’s important to us in the way we operate and treat others?
Mentoring: Do we have a plan for replacing people when they move up or move on? Have we identified the next generation of leaders? Are we preparing them for future leadership roles?
And intervention: Are we willing to make the hard calls to move people out who don’t fit?
Paul, the 1st Century Apostle gave this top-down counsel: Follow me in the same way I follow Christ.
--Wayne Pederson
_______
Thursday, September 08, 2011
Where were you on 9/11?
Where were you on September 11, 2001? On that 9/11, I was involved in a meeting of National Religious Broadcasters. Erwin Lutzer was keynote speaker. As we learned of the tragic attacks in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania, we gathered the group and Dr. Lutzer began to teach of St. Augustine’s “City of God” vs the “City of Man”. This world is not our home. The City of God is real and permenent.
Our world has changed since then. One can’t get on an airplane without thinking how our world has lost its innocence. And the attacks on our nation transformed America from the great benefactor of the world to a country fearful and suspicious of our international colleagues. Many call them “the enemy”
However, many mission organizations have chosen to not view people in these nations as enemies. Jesus taught to love our enemies and pray for those who despise us. He gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
In the last few years, HCJB Global has re-doubled efforts to proclaim the message of Christ through media and demonstrate God’s love through human care.
The verse I discovered in 9/11/01 rings true this 9/11. It’s Psalm 91:1. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
In fact, all of Psalm 91 is a statement of God’s shelter and protection. It might be good reading and reflection on this 911.
Our world has changed since then. One can’t get on an airplane without thinking how our world has lost its innocence. And the attacks on our nation transformed America from the great benefactor of the world to a country fearful and suspicious of our international colleagues. Many call them “the enemy”
However, many mission organizations have chosen to not view people in these nations as enemies. Jesus taught to love our enemies and pray for those who despise us. He gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
In the last few years, HCJB Global has re-doubled efforts to proclaim the message of Christ through media and demonstrate God’s love through human care.
The verse I discovered in 9/11/01 rings true this 9/11. It’s Psalm 91:1. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
In fact, all of Psalm 91 is a statement of God’s shelter and protection. It might be good reading and reflection on this 911.
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
Your bank balance: 86,400
Today as a leader, you have a bank account. The balance is 86,400.
That’s 86,400 seconds.
Every day carries forward no balance or deficit.
You can’t save time. You can’t even really manage it.
Have you heard of the 80/20 rule? Twenty percent of our effort produces 80% of the results.
Eighty percent of our efforts produces the other 20%.
We need to decide which 20% of what we do, produces the 80% result; then focus on doing that 20%.
And avoid spending time on the 80% which produces little results.
We all have the same 86,400 seconds each day. Leverage your time for the highest priorities.
Lord, teach us to number our days, for the time is very limited.
That’s 86,400 seconds.
Every day carries forward no balance or deficit.
You can’t save time. You can’t even really manage it.
Have you heard of the 80/20 rule? Twenty percent of our effort produces 80% of the results.
Eighty percent of our efforts produces the other 20%.
We need to decide which 20% of what we do, produces the 80% result; then focus on doing that 20%.
And avoid spending time on the 80% which produces little results.
We all have the same 86,400 seconds each day. Leverage your time for the highest priorities.
Lord, teach us to number our days, for the time is very limited.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
The Lower Place
Roy Lessin writing in Moments of Strength, says: “a man grows tall when he takes the lowly place. He grows strong when he seeks the quiet place. He grows great when he takes the servants place.”
It’s true, when we learn to take the lowly job, we prepare ourselves for the bigger job. Jesus said: “Whoever is faithful in little will be given over much.”
When we slow down and are still, we gain strength. The Psalmist said: “In quietness and calmness is your strength.”
And when we serve others, we demonstrate true greatness. Jesus again: “The greatest among you is the servant of all.”
Hmm. These management axioms sound a lot
It’s true, when we learn to take the lowly job, we prepare ourselves for the bigger job. Jesus said: “Whoever is faithful in little will be given over much.”
When we slow down and are still, we gain strength. The Psalmist said: “In quietness and calmness is your strength.”
And when we serve others, we demonstrate true greatness. Jesus again: “The greatest among you is the servant of all.”
Hmm. These management axioms sound a lot
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
5 Traits of Extremely Effective Ministries
The Willow Creek people have identified 5 traits of extremely effective churches.
1.Their leaders have extraordinary devotion to God. They love God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength.
2.They get people moving. They clearly communicate a roadmap for the next steps in ministry.
3.They embed the Bible in everything they do. God`s word is the central axis for every discussion and activity.
4.They create ownership, making sure everyone, staff and attendees, own the vision.
5.They pastor the local community, addressing the needs outside their own walls, bringing Christ to their community.
The characteristics not only work for effective churches, but effective ministries and organizations. I’ve even seen it work in businesses and corporations.
God’s way is always the best way.
1.Their leaders have extraordinary devotion to God. They love God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength.
2.They get people moving. They clearly communicate a roadmap for the next steps in ministry.
3.They embed the Bible in everything they do. God`s word is the central axis for every discussion and activity.
4.They create ownership, making sure everyone, staff and attendees, own the vision.
5.They pastor the local community, addressing the needs outside their own walls, bringing Christ to their community.
The characteristics not only work for effective churches, but effective ministries and organizations. I’ve even seen it work in businesses and corporations.
God’s way is always the best way.
Monday, August 08, 2011
Things You Can Learn from Blogs
You can learn a lot from blogs. One blog shared things to do every day for success:
1) Get up early. For a week, wake up a half hour earlier than usual. Early morning is a great time to gather your thoughts, organize your day and spend some quiet moments with the Lord.
2) Read the headlines. Every morning I get the world headlines in my email from a credible news source. It helps me understand what’s going on in the world.
3) Send something to one person. A note of encouragement, a prayer, an idea or just; “Hey! I was thinking about you.”
4) Touch base with an old friend you haven’t talked to for a while. You’ll make their day, if you thank them for the contribution they’ve made in your life.
Our model is Jesus, who rose before daybreak to commune with His Father.
1) Get up early. For a week, wake up a half hour earlier than usual. Early morning is a great time to gather your thoughts, organize your day and spend some quiet moments with the Lord.
2) Read the headlines. Every morning I get the world headlines in my email from a credible news source. It helps me understand what’s going on in the world.
3) Send something to one person. A note of encouragement, a prayer, an idea or just; “Hey! I was thinking about you.”
4) Touch base with an old friend you haven’t talked to for a while. You’ll make their day, if you thank them for the contribution they’ve made in your life.
Our model is Jesus, who rose before daybreak to commune with His Father.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Jet Ski Leadership
Jet Ski Leadership Principles
This week I spent a fun afternoon on a Jet Ski not oNly was it lots of fun, but i learned things about leadership.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle #1: It's impossible to steer if you're not moving.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle # 2: It's very difficult to steer if you're moving too slow.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle #3: it's much easier to steer if you're moving forward rapidly.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle # 4: To make quick, sharp turns, apply more power.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle # 5: If you keep going I circles, you experience your own wake.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle #6: there are no brakes. Plan ahead how you're going to stop.
It's impossible to steer if you're not facing forward
You're one of the smallest boats out there, but probably the fastest
This week I spent a fun afternoon on a Jet Ski not oNly was it lots of fun, but i learned things about leadership.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle #1: It's impossible to steer if you're not moving.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle # 2: It's very difficult to steer if you're moving too slow.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle #3: it's much easier to steer if you're moving forward rapidly.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle # 4: To make quick, sharp turns, apply more power.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle # 5: If you keep going I circles, you experience your own wake.
Jet Ski Leadership Principle #6: there are no brakes. Plan ahead how you're going to stop.
It's impossible to steer if you're not facing forward
You're one of the smallest boats out there, but probably the fastest
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Keeping a God-focus
Sarah Bentley--Former pastor, now full time mom, says:
Keeping the focus on God as we lead is easier said than done.
Choose to spend less energy over people’s opinions of us and our leadership and more time focusing on helping people better understand Christ’s love for them.
Be quick to praise and encourage others for the way we see Christ at work with them, instead of quietly complaining we don’t get recognition ourselves.
Refuse to neglect time with the Lord, even when our schedules are packed.
I sure like that. Leaders tend to worry about their image. They like to be people pleasers.
But true leadership is other-focused. Seeking to build up others in their careers.
Jesus reminded us that the greatest person is the one who serves others.
So, how do you stack up to Jesus’ measure of a leader?
Keeping the focus on God as we lead is easier said than done.
Choose to spend less energy over people’s opinions of us and our leadership and more time focusing on helping people better understand Christ’s love for them.
Be quick to praise and encourage others for the way we see Christ at work with them, instead of quietly complaining we don’t get recognition ourselves.
Refuse to neglect time with the Lord, even when our schedules are packed.
I sure like that. Leaders tend to worry about their image. They like to be people pleasers.
But true leadership is other-focused. Seeking to build up others in their careers.
Jesus reminded us that the greatest person is the one who serves others.
So, how do you stack up to Jesus’ measure of a leader?
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Jesus' Home Run
Last night, our grandson, Justin, played in a baseball tournament for consolation champs in their little league. In the last inning, he stepped up to the plate and hit a home run, the only home run of the game.
Fortunately, I caught the whole thing on video. (It’s on my Facebook page, in case you want to watch it.) Everyone stood. There was cheering. There were high-fives everywhere. Anyway, in watching the video afterwards, what struck me was how everyone was saying Justin’s name: the fans, the coach, his teammates. Over and over your heard: “Justin, Justin, Justin!”
It made me think of what it’s going to be like at the bottom of the final inning when we celebrate Jesus’ home run. I think we’ll all be standing up and celebrating, cheering, giving high-fives. But I believe we will all (fans, coaches, players) be saying the name over and over and over: “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!!”
Fortunately, I caught the whole thing on video. (It’s on my Facebook page, in case you want to watch it.) Everyone stood. There was cheering. There were high-fives everywhere. Anyway, in watching the video afterwards, what struck me was how everyone was saying Justin’s name: the fans, the coach, his teammates. Over and over your heard: “Justin, Justin, Justin!”
It made me think of what it’s going to be like at the bottom of the final inning when we celebrate Jesus’ home run. I think we’ll all be standing up and celebrating, cheering, giving high-fives. But I believe we will all (fans, coaches, players) be saying the name over and over and over: “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!!”
Monday, June 27, 2011
Is your personal ife in chaos?
f your business life is too complicated.
If your personal life is in chaos.
If you're so busy being busy—realize the great achievements come in the simplest forms.
Learn to slow down long enough to see through all the clutter.
Get rid of the hurry sickness that prevails in our culture, even our Christian culture.
While it may be a sin to be lazy, it's also a disservice to burn ourselves out with too much on our plates.
Jesus invites us to take a day off each week. He invites us to learn the unforced rhythms of God's grace.
The Psalmist invited us to be still and know that He is God. And may I add; He's God...and we are not!
If your personal life is in chaos.
If you're so busy being busy—realize the great achievements come in the simplest forms.
Learn to slow down long enough to see through all the clutter.
Get rid of the hurry sickness that prevails in our culture, even our Christian culture.
While it may be a sin to be lazy, it's also a disservice to burn ourselves out with too much on our plates.
Jesus invites us to take a day off each week. He invites us to learn the unforced rhythms of God's grace.
The Psalmist invited us to be still and know that He is God. And may I add; He's God...and we are not!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Why am I so down?
Why do I get depressed?
Is it when I’ve been pushing hard for 3 months and suddenly try to put the breaks on my work pace?
Is it when we arrive at our 2nd home, I”m overwhelmed with all the things that need to be done around the place?
Is it that when I’m weary of making decisions, that there are still decisions to make about social plans?
Is it that while I’m trying to kick-back, I’m still getting phone calls about difficult situations at work?
Is it those social events where the music is too loud, tables are too crowded, everyone shouting to be heard and still you can’t hear more than half the conversation?
Is it the nagging heaviness of the job that keeps popping into my brain when I’m trying not to think of work?
Is it the guilt I feel when I’m not Mr. Happy around spouse, grandkids and friends?
Why do I feel this heaviness? Why am I in this black hole? Why do I walk under this cloud? Why can’t I just snap out of it?
Why do I get so depressed when I should be happy?
The Psalmist must have felt this way. He asked the same question?
“Why am I cast down, O my soul? Why so disquieted within me?”
His writings are full of discouragement, depression, defeatism?
Do you think Jesus in His humanity felt alone and depressed when we withdrew to a lonely place to pray all night? When he said to his followers “Couldn’t you even stay up with me for one hour in my time of need?”
I don’t want to medicate my way to happiness and balance. I’d like to exercise my way to joy. I’d like to feel those endorphins giving me back my mojo. I’d like to take a 20 hour nap that would restore my personality and energy.
How much of this would be better if I were closer to God? My life verse is Psalm 16:11. “In your presence there is fullness of joy.” So could I have more joy if I sought God’s presence more fully?
Is this a spiritual problem, a DNA issue, a fatigue factor, an inherent emotional weakness? I don’t know. I only know I don’t like it.
Maybe I’m down because i’m putting too much faith in myself, not enough on God. My feelings, sadly, go up and down. But He is constant. The same yesterday, today, tomorrow.
So as I seek to be more godly, perhaps I need to seek His constancy, His stability. Maybe I need to let the one who promised to make the rough places plain to exalt the valleys and and lower every big mountain.
I’ve discussed this with my wife. She says I haven’t been myself, whatever that is. Hopefully I’ll wake up in the morning and things will look brighter. I won’t be annoyed by every little thing. I’ll be in my groove again. I’ll feel right with the world. I’ll feel close to God again. Maybe I’ll be a better husband, father, friend.
Back to David: Psalm 42:11 from the Message:
Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God— soon I'll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He's my God.
Maybe if I fix my eyes on God, I’ll be smiling again.
Is it when I’ve been pushing hard for 3 months and suddenly try to put the breaks on my work pace?
Is it when we arrive at our 2nd home, I”m overwhelmed with all the things that need to be done around the place?
Is it that when I’m weary of making decisions, that there are still decisions to make about social plans?
Is it that while I’m trying to kick-back, I’m still getting phone calls about difficult situations at work?
Is it those social events where the music is too loud, tables are too crowded, everyone shouting to be heard and still you can’t hear more than half the conversation?
Is it the nagging heaviness of the job that keeps popping into my brain when I’m trying not to think of work?
Is it the guilt I feel when I’m not Mr. Happy around spouse, grandkids and friends?
Why do I feel this heaviness? Why am I in this black hole? Why do I walk under this cloud? Why can’t I just snap out of it?
Why do I get so depressed when I should be happy?
The Psalmist must have felt this way. He asked the same question?
“Why am I cast down, O my soul? Why so disquieted within me?”
His writings are full of discouragement, depression, defeatism?
Do you think Jesus in His humanity felt alone and depressed when we withdrew to a lonely place to pray all night? When he said to his followers “Couldn’t you even stay up with me for one hour in my time of need?”
I don’t want to medicate my way to happiness and balance. I’d like to exercise my way to joy. I’d like to feel those endorphins giving me back my mojo. I’d like to take a 20 hour nap that would restore my personality and energy.
How much of this would be better if I were closer to God? My life verse is Psalm 16:11. “In your presence there is fullness of joy.” So could I have more joy if I sought God’s presence more fully?
Is this a spiritual problem, a DNA issue, a fatigue factor, an inherent emotional weakness? I don’t know. I only know I don’t like it.
Maybe I’m down because i’m putting too much faith in myself, not enough on God. My feelings, sadly, go up and down. But He is constant. The same yesterday, today, tomorrow.
So as I seek to be more godly, perhaps I need to seek His constancy, His stability. Maybe I need to let the one who promised to make the rough places plain to exalt the valleys and and lower every big mountain.
I’ve discussed this with my wife. She says I haven’t been myself, whatever that is. Hopefully I’ll wake up in the morning and things will look brighter. I won’t be annoyed by every little thing. I’ll be in my groove again. I’ll feel right with the world. I’ll feel close to God again. Maybe I’ll be a better husband, father, friend.
Back to David: Psalm 42:11 from the Message:
Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God— soon I'll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He's my God.
Maybe if I fix my eyes on God, I’ll be smiling again.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The best leaders can weather any storm.
Justin Menkes, writing in Harvard Business Review writes these abilities come from relentless and realistic optimism, single minded focus combined with looking at a complex problem with clarity.
He recommended taking a deep breath, relaxing face muscles and to speak slowly and at a lower pitch.
I have another recommendation. Pray. Cast all your cares on the Lord. He said that all things are possible to him who believes.
So take a deep breath, slow down, and pray. Great leaders in times of crisis turn to the sustainer of the universe.
He promises that the peace of God which passes all understanding will keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
Try it.
He recommended taking a deep breath, relaxing face muscles and to speak slowly and at a lower pitch.
I have another recommendation. Pray. Cast all your cares on the Lord. He said that all things are possible to him who believes.
So take a deep breath, slow down, and pray. Great leaders in times of crisis turn to the sustainer of the universe.
He promises that the peace of God which passes all understanding will keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
Try it.
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
How can you be so stupid?
Bill George, author of TRUE NORTH, says: "Too many people reach the top only to lose their moral compasses." We've seen that in recent days when a promising congressman torpedos his political career with foolish indiscretions. We've seen prominent pastors who lose family, reputation and ministry for momentary and risky behavior. Too often, successful, talented people feel they're invulnerable to getting caught. They pursue their narcissistic pleasures to the ruin of their moral reputation.
How can a leader avoid such traps from the dark side? Start by having a group of men whol hold you accountable and who call you on stupid behavior. God's word says: "Above all, guard your heart for out of it come the big issues of life. "
How can a leader avoid such traps from the dark side? Start by having a group of men whol hold you accountable and who call you on stupid behavior. God's word says: "Above all, guard your heart for out of it come the big issues of life. "
Monday, June 06, 2011
When will things be normal again?
People keep asking: “When are things in the economy going to return to normal?”
Well, if the economic news last week is any indication, we won’t be returning to “normal” anytime soon. Housing issues, unemployment, sagging stock market, federal deficit all point to the fact that we’d better get used to the “new normal”.
We’re temped to ask: Will I have a job next year? Will my house sell? Will social security and medicare be there when I need it? What about my 401K?
Then we might ask: “Can I afford to give my resources to ministries?”
Amidst all the bad stuff coming out of the media, this morning I read these reassuring words from Jesus in Luke 12
"So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life — whether you have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. For life consists of far more than food and clothing. Look at the ravens. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not! 26 And if worry can't do little things like that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?
"Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you? You have so little faith! And don't worry about food — what to eat and drink. Don't worry whether God will provide it for you. These things dominate the thoughts of most people, but your Father already knows your needs. He will give you all you need from day to day if you make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.
32 "So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
Luke 12:22-32 NLT
Okay, Jesus. I can live with that!!
Well, if the economic news last week is any indication, we won’t be returning to “normal” anytime soon. Housing issues, unemployment, sagging stock market, federal deficit all point to the fact that we’d better get used to the “new normal”.
We’re temped to ask: Will I have a job next year? Will my house sell? Will social security and medicare be there when I need it? What about my 401K?
Then we might ask: “Can I afford to give my resources to ministries?”
Amidst all the bad stuff coming out of the media, this morning I read these reassuring words from Jesus in Luke 12
"So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life — whether you have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. For life consists of far more than food and clothing. Look at the ravens. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not! 26 And if worry can't do little things like that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?
"Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you? You have so little faith! And don't worry about food — what to eat and drink. Don't worry whether God will provide it for you. These things dominate the thoughts of most people, but your Father already knows your needs. He will give you all you need from day to day if you make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.
32 "So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.
Luke 12:22-32 NLT
Okay, Jesus. I can live with that!!
Friday, June 03, 2011
How do you make decisions?
How do you make decisions? Flip a coin? Procrastinate?
I like how they did it in the First Century church. The book of Acts records that the leadership team was seeking direction on an important strategic decision. Which way to go? Who should decide?
Then, Acts 15:28 records: “It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…”
So, they allowed the Spirit of God to lead their decision making. They put the matter before the Lord. And they listened to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit for the answer.
But it seems they also sought consensus from the group. And, they felt affirmed by God and by one another.
Next time your team is making a decision, pray that it would seem good to the Holy Spirit and to us as we decide and move forward.
I like how they did it in the First Century church. The book of Acts records that the leadership team was seeking direction on an important strategic decision. Which way to go? Who should decide?
Then, Acts 15:28 records: “It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…”
So, they allowed the Spirit of God to lead their decision making. They put the matter before the Lord. And they listened to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit for the answer.
But it seems they also sought consensus from the group. And, they felt affirmed by God and by one another.
Next time your team is making a decision, pray that it would seem good to the Holy Spirit and to us as we decide and move forward.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Vision
We hear a lot of talk about vision. But not a lot of articulation of clear vision.
Vision is what you WANT to do, not just what you THINK should be done.
You can have thousands of grand ideas, but you can only really activate a few core desires of the heart.
I’ve often said: The accomplishment of the smallest good deed is far more valuable than the grandest intention never accomplished.
Jesus told about two men: one said “Yes” to a request; then didn’t do it. Another said “No” to a request; then later recanted and did what was asked. Which was better? The obvious answer is the one who ultimately acted on the right impulse.
I can give an immediate yes to a request, then try to wiggle out of it. But I’m FAR better off hesitating on making a commitment so I can think and pray about it.
Vision is what you WANT to do, not just what you THINK should be done.
You can have thousands of grand ideas, but you can only really activate a few core desires of the heart.
I’ve often said: The accomplishment of the smallest good deed is far more valuable than the grandest intention never accomplished.
Jesus told about two men: one said “Yes” to a request; then didn’t do it. Another said “No” to a request; then later recanted and did what was asked. Which was better? The obvious answer is the one who ultimately acted on the right impulse.
I can give an immediate yes to a request, then try to wiggle out of it. But I’m FAR better off hesitating on making a commitment so I can think and pray about it.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
I don't know where I'm going, but I'm making great time.
“To the person who goes not where he wants to go, there is no favorable wind.”
It’s true. If you don’t know where you’re going, you can’t really move forward.
A modern day philosopher, Jim Rohn says: It is the set of the sails, not the direction of the wind that determines which way you will go.”
I think I like that statement even better. Good sailors don’t have to go “with the wind”. They know how to use their sails to make the wind take them to where they want to go.
Christ-follower, Paul of Tarsus, in the First Century warned against being unwise—toss about by waves of the sea driven by the wind.
Rather, we are to seek wisdom from God, who promises to give wisdom generously to anyone who asks in faith.
So use God’s wisdom to set your sails against the prevailing winds of the world, so you can get to where you want to go.
It’s true. If you don’t know where you’re going, you can’t really move forward.
A modern day philosopher, Jim Rohn says: It is the set of the sails, not the direction of the wind that determines which way you will go.”
I think I like that statement even better. Good sailors don’t have to go “with the wind”. They know how to use their sails to make the wind take them to where they want to go.
Christ-follower, Paul of Tarsus, in the First Century warned against being unwise—toss about by waves of the sea driven by the wind.
Rather, we are to seek wisdom from God, who promises to give wisdom generously to anyone who asks in faith.
So use God’s wisdom to set your sails against the prevailing winds of the world, so you can get to where you want to go.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Attack problems, not people.
Attack the problems, not the people.
Oh what a difference that can make in relationships, from marriage to the workplace.
I’ve often said, that as we sit as a management team dealing with an issue: We’re not here to fix blame. We’re here to fix the problem.
Often the tendency to blame another person prevents the group from attacking the problem.
Now, not all problems can be solved. Some situations have to be managed. There are just some things in a sinful and broken world we just have to manage, not resolve.
So, acknowledge that there’s a problem. Recognize we are imperfect people working in an imperfect organization that exists in a far-from-perfect world.
Jesus said: “Judge not; then you will not be judged.
Oh what a difference that can make in relationships, from marriage to the workplace.
I’ve often said, that as we sit as a management team dealing with an issue: We’re not here to fix blame. We’re here to fix the problem.
Often the tendency to blame another person prevents the group from attacking the problem.
Now, not all problems can be solved. Some situations have to be managed. There are just some things in a sinful and broken world we just have to manage, not resolve.
So, acknowledge that there’s a problem. Recognize we are imperfect people working in an imperfect organization that exists in a far-from-perfect world.
Jesus said: “Judge not; then you will not be judged.
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