A specific decision is always at the epicenter of taking a risk. Again, do your homework, but don’t stall or procrastinate once you know all you can know. It’s time to decide and make a decision. If you make a mistake in the process, learn from it and keep going.
- What is the most recent risk you have taken; how did it go?
- What risk are you considering now?
5. A Genuine Care and Concern for People
Professional people exhaustion is a common workplace experience. For example, it’s possible for a Golf Pro, after teaching students all week, to have no desire for even a conversation with an aspiring golfer on their days off.
The Golf Pro loves golf and people, but can reach a point where the exhaustion begins to win out over genuine care and concern for people.
The same is true, if not more so, for those of us in vocational ministry.
Be careful not to run so hard and so long that your love for people gets lost in the busyness of ministry.
Take time to get some rest, replenish your soul, and enjoy something fun on a regular basis. That’s not selfish, its so you can continue to give yourself away for the good of others.
There are usually signals and warning signs if you are pushing too hard and running on the edge. Do you know what they are for you? Be mindful and live wisely, so you can genuinely care about those you serve.
- Is your heart still warm toward people?
- Are you happy to give your time to others?
6. A Consistent Pattern of Healthy Habits
Character requires a lifetime to develop but can be damaged or nearly destroyed in a moment. Stay on your guard, allow advisors and friends to speak into your life.
Talent may get you in the door, but character keeps you in the room.
Pressure is the great enemy of character. We all have limits to the amount of pressure we can sustain as a leader. The key is to know your limits and practice healthy pressure relief habits.
Good habits help you:
- Keep your emotions in check
- Keep your body in shape
- Keep your words uplifting
- Keep your heart truthful
- Keep your thoughts productive
Healthy habits help form good character and good character helps you sustain good habits.
- What one good habit do you need to strengthen?
- What one unhealthy habit do you need to break?
7. A Deep Trust in and Dependence Upon God
Yes, I’ve saved the most important for last. I’m glad you are still reading.
As a spiritual leader in the church, nothing is more important than your trust in God and living dependent upon him.
There is great beauty and truth in the fact that God’s wisdom, power and favor are available to all spiritual leaders regardless of church size, education, gifting or talent. God’s love and kindness is available for all who seek it.
That is the one condition, we need to pursue God’s presence and power.
The invitation to an intimate relationship is clear. Prayer is the best avenue, and I’ve learned that some of the best time in prayer is spent in silence, waiting and listening. Praying through Scripture is deeply meaningful as well.
God has promised to be with us—such an incredible gift.
- How are you pursuing God today?
- In what specific ways do you fully trust him?
This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.
