At the Centre

Christian leaders interested in excellence must constantly keep before them core beliefs that will guide decision making and keep the organization on course. Bill Hybels of Willow Creek Church stays out of the chaos that sometimes traps church leaders by remaining convinced of, and committed to, these three bedrock beliefs:
1. Honour God in everything
2. People matter to God
3. The local church is the hope of the world

What core convictions guide your life? your ministry? your work?

BEYOND EXCELLENCE

The Ottawa Sun recently ran a review of a new book authored by elite motivational speaker Mike Lipkin. His emphasis: push beyond excellence to pre-eminence in business and service. What does it take to be outstanding? According to Lipkin it is the ability to consistently go above and beyond what people expect; it is the ability to anticipate needs before they are expressed; the desire to demonstrate care; and it is a commitment to show more depth and speed in response to others.
Above & Beyond: Christians should know something about this:
• Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God – 1 Corinthians 10:31
• Go the extra mile – Matthew 5:41
• The Good Samaritan – Luke 10:25-37
There is no shortcut on this journey. It is a high calling requiring focus and discipline. Are you up to the challenge?

Questions Leaders Ask - of themselves

More insight from Bill Hybels, Courageous Leadership, Zondervan 2002

Questions a leader asks of self:

1. Is my calling sure?
2. Is my vision clear?
3. Is my passion hot?
4. Am I developing my gifts?
5. Is my pride subdued?
6. Am I overcoming fear?
7. Is my pace sustainable?

WHAT KIND OF LEADER ARE YOU?

Not all leaders are alike. We have different styles and different skills. Without a ‘good fit’, a leadership position can quickly turn to frustration and failure. In his book, Courageous Leadership, Bill Hybels identifies ten leadership styles, each of which, in the right context, can qualify as “HIGH IMPACT LEADING. “

1. Visionary
2. Directional
3. Strategic
4. Managing
5. Motivational
6. Shepherding
7. Team-building
8. Entrepreneurial
9. Reengineering
10. Bridge building
The natural question is this: Do we have all these styles represented in our church and are they in the right places?