Recently, at a meeting with a number of young pastors, Geri and I were asked, “What has been your greatest regret in leadership?” I was taken aback by the question, unsure of where to begin. There were so many. We talked about dual relationships and power (which led the group into a lively, spirited discussion), but I realized that I needed to think much more about that penetrating question.
This led me, over the next several weeks, to ponder the list of my greatest regrets over the last 40 years. I categorized them, edited them, and placed them in an order that began to make sense – at least to me. The process was both painful and freeing. The painful part revolved around vulnerability required to put them down on paper; the freeing part was seeing the love of God who brought me back to himself each time I strayed. I marvel at how he worked in, through, and in spite of my mistakes!
Here are the first four regrets I share in this podcast:
- Not understanding dual relationships and power
- Impatience and rushing in making key decisions
- Not leading (or listening to God) out of our marriage the first nine years
- Not working less, resting more, and giving away responsibilities earlier.
Hope you enjoy it.
