Leaders Who Last Part 7

We have been in a series of leadership lessons on what it takes to have longevity in a ministry. We have said there are two areas we concern ourselves:

1. The inner life of the pastor
2. The relationship with the congregation

In the first area, we find six principles:

1. A calling to ministry
2. A mission with that calling
3. A godly definition of success
4. A disciplined life
5. A willingness to change
6. A security found in Christ

If you have to be liked, you cannot lead. All of us want to be liked. It’s the reason why many enter the ministry. However, in the leadership role, one must often make the tough decisions. These decisions are made much harder in that many in the church will not agree with them.

These disagreements are often over the hiring or firing of staff or over a large expenditure such as a new building. We are in spiritual warfare. Paul teaches us, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12

As we make tough and often unpopular decisions, Satan will attempt to place rebellion in people’s hearts. They become afraid of what they may lose. Fear is moving them to rebellion. The opposition can become unbearable for many pastors and the result is to leave the church. Of course, then the problem-creators in the church are never corrected, and the opposition is then for the next pastor. If you get your security anywhere but Christ, it will be difficult for you to stand firm and face down the opposition with love. Courage is essential in the ministry. It’s tough to stand when your security (your true god) is popularity and acceptance among the congregation.

Where do you find your security?
 
Next lesson: Integrity.