Leaders

Jesus gave Peter a do-over and he can do the same for you. In what areas do you need a do-over as His steward?

Everybody faces conflict. Wise leaders, however, know how to manage conflict when it comes. Four good questions arise from Acts 15 for how to face conflict.

Pastors may lead the church as shepherds, but they are not the owners. They are not the only ones who will be held responsible for the condition of the church. That’s on us all.

While leading yourself is vitally important, it is also extremely challenging. The famous pastor D.L. Moody quipped, “I have had more trouble with myself than with any other man I have ever met.” We struggle with ourselves. As you wrestle with the challenge of leading and caring for yourself, here are some practical ways to avoid burnout.

I am not a medical doctor or counselor, but I have learned the rhythms in my own life and have sought counsel continually from leaders I respect. I have seen and also learned the hard way that pushing through seasons of exhaustion can backfire. Here are signs I look for and encourage other leaders to look for in their own lives.

For many leaders, our biggest challenge isn’t giving love and encouragement — it’s receiving them.

As a leader, having routine conversations to collect feedback about what you can do to become a better leader can be uncomfortable at times – at least when the person you’re seeking feedback from is either your boss or peer.

What are we coming to church to feast upon?

What do you do when your plans get interrupted? Fume … fuss … cuss? I tend to fume. I recall two experiences that interrupted my well laid-out plans. In the process, I also learned a few important life lessons.

Steve Gladen, pastor of small groups at Saddleback Church for more than a decade, gives brilliant advice to take your small group to the next level. What makes a group system thrive? Definitely, strong leadership, welcoming groups, small group guidelines. Saddleback’s success from small groups comes from its focus on health. He balances the biblical purposes of fellowship, discipleship, ministry, worship and evangelism.

Most of us feel the Holy Spirit, but are hoping for a visual manifestation, like the church of Acts. We're tired, the world is having more fun than us, and it seems like one thing after another. So why do we press? Is it worth it?

Do I love Jesus? There’s no more important question to ask ourselves. And nothing more important to cultivate than our love for our Savior.