The more I understand what it means to serve, the better I understand leadership. Having been a part of several churches and organizations, I can testify that the best leaders serve others around them which, in turn, inspires them to follow. The difference between inspiring and directing is significant.
This past week at WFX I spent dozens of hours listening and talking with people from churches of all sizes and denominations who were struggling with either being a leader or following a leader. I, too, know exactly what this is like. That’s why I felt conviction when I heard this from a friend:
We can’t serve well when we have our own agenda.
One of the toughest conversations we can have is when we have to ask forgiveness from our leaders for trying to prop up our own agendas instead of aligning with the vision of the house. This doesn’t mean you hide your passions, give up your identity or never push back against ideas. It simply means finding ways to match the goals of your leadership with the courage of your convictions, gracefully.
Before your team, organization or church can move forward, pause and exhibit the servant-like humility of Jesus through a tough conversation that aligns your heart and mind with the vision of the house. The vision of the house is more important than your personal vision for your area.
