Words of caution for visionary leaders: First, there is the danger that the “vision” becomes more important than God and His people. The wise leader must remember that he or she is also called to love as Jesus loved. Too many Christian leaders have pounded home their ideas of vision with such force that their followers are battered and bruised. Vision sent from God unites His people and blesses them. Vision, yes! Abusive leadership, no!
A second danger is assuming that a finely crafted vision statement is all that is needed to inspire and unite followers. But that puts the cart before the horse. A vision statement should flow from the vision already born in the heart of the leader. Just having a “Vision Statement” framed on the wall doesn’t mean the vision is either clear or compelling.
A third danger is that of forfeiting authenticity. Sometimes leaders attempt to imitate role models who have inspired them. They may even repeat the same phrases or assume the same personality traits of their exemplary models. But vision communicated without authenticity will simply come across as a marketing scheme or, worse, as an insincere manipulation. Effective leaders must be true to themselves, even as they are true to the Lord and to the vision God has given them.
When the leader’s passions and values touch the vision that God has for the organization, the leader is filled with joy and infectious hope that are communicated through his or her personality and spirit. The God-given vision will inspire and motivate followers and will honor and glorify the Lord Jesus. The bottom line is that it’s all about Him.
-- Steve Irvin
#2292
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for sharing your comments about a quote or about this ministry. Please include your name and what state or country you live in. If you do not have a registered profile, you can login using the "Anonymous" tag in the "Comment as:" box below.
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.