How do we raise up such leaders? The process begins with intentional practices that cultivate stillness, clarity, and peace. Leaders must choose to:
- step out of the noise and busyness into rhythms of silence,
- embrace the guidance of spiritual directors, and
- prioritize soul health.
These practices need to be central, not optional. As Dallas Willard said, “You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.” Tomorrow’s leaders will take this to heart and lead from a place of rest and renewal, not anxiety and depletion.
Finding Peace in the Storm
A pastor I worked with had been running on empty for years. He described the frantic pace of ministry, mounting expectations, and a growing sense that he was losing himself in the process. The proverbial “fire within” had burned out, leaving only ash.
But when the pastor began attending monthly semi-silent retreats, a shift occurred. At first, the experience was unsettling. He was accustomed to noise, activity, and constant productivity. Yet as he leaned into the quiet, he began hearing God’s voice again. The long-elusive peace returned.
Although the pastor’s leadership didn’t change overnight, he became an unanxious presence for his team and congregation. His fire was reignited through surrender, not effort.
If you feel stretched, depleted, or anxious, there is hope. The journey toward leading from peace begins with simple, intentional steps. Consider these next actions:
- Engage a spiritual director. Find a trusted guide to help you hear God’s movement in your life and leadership.
- Assess your soul health. Knowing its current state is the first step toward growth and renewal.
- Regularly attend semi-silent retreats. Step away from leadership demands to reconnect with God. Rhythms of silence and stillness can sustain you in ways nothing else can.
- Practice silent prayer. Set aside time daily to sit in silence before God. Release the need to perform, produce, or impress. Simply be.
Leading Beyond the Fire
The future of leadership belongs to people willing to do the deep, slow work of soul care. As the pressures of life and leadership increase, the world cries out for leaders who carry peace into the storm—leaders who are unanxious, grounded, and whole.
The state of your soul matters more than you realize. When tended well, the fire within you can light the way for others.
