Accelerating in Leadership

…pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly (accelerate)and be honored...

2 Thessalonians 3:1

2023 is a year for all of us in the Oregon Ministry Network to accelerate our leadership. In February, our OMN Team will be gathering at eight locations throughout the state to share some of the tools that will help us make this a reality in the days ahead.    

A few years ago, I was having a conversation with one of my former pastors and mentors. He was a man of vision and very clear on his responsibilities to lead forward. During our meeting, my pastor friend looked at me and asked, “What are you planning to do in the future?” Now understand I have just led one of the most significant building projects in our church’s history. It was the biggest thing I had ever done. I was looking to enjoy it now simply, and he was asking, “What is next?” I responded, “Well…I’m just trying to survive!” He pressed me more, “I know all you accomplished, and I’m proud of you, but what are you dreaming about now? What is the next step in your mission and vision?” For the next few minutes, my beloved mentor challenged me not to stop dreaming. I now look back and realize he was spurring me on to keep leading forward. 

For us to accelerate as pastors and leaders in 2023, we must pause to reconsider our God-directed mission and vision. Why did God place you where you are? What has he called you to do?

Great pastors and leaders need to know three things regarding their mission and purpose.

1. Clearly understand the WHAT. Ask, what is the central mission and purpose of what I am doing?
2. Clearly understand the WHY. Ask, why is this central mission important, and why am I doing it?
3. Clearly understand the HOW. Ask, how will the central mission be accomplished?

I recently spoke to a couple considering their next steps in ministry. After discussing a recent disappointment in ministry, we all concluded that God was preparing them to turn what appeared to be a setback into a setup for an extraordinary new assignment. We left the conversation full of confidence that God was directing their steps and they would accelerate. 

Psalm 37:23 The Lord directs the steps of the godly.  He delights in every detail of their lives.

I am going to suggest that in the next couple of weeks, you carve out a few hours or a day to get alone and prayerfully contemplate your current role and responsibilities. Here are some coaching suggestions:  

1. Take time to refresh your personal mission statement (God’s calling).
2. Take time to identify one or two new things you want to pursue in 2023 (God’s vision).
3. Take time to discuss with two or three trusted friends your written mission and pursuit (God’s counsel).
4. Take time to reset a timeline to begin, evaluate, and complete your new efforts in 2023 (God’s timing).
5. Take time to begin by taking the first steps needed to stay on mission and fulfill your dreams (Your obedience).

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Jeremiah 29:11