It is possible to build a church, an organization, or a team by relying only on our gifts, talents, and experience. We can serve Christ in our own energy and wisdom. We can expand a ministry or a business without thinking much of Jesus or relying on him in the process. We can boldly preach truths we don’t live. And if our efforts prove successful, few people will notice or take issue with the gaps between who we are and what we do.
Remember, Jesus doesn’t say we can’t lead or build a church without him (see Matthew 7:21-23). What he does say is that our efforts are worth nothing unless they flow out of a relationship of loving union with him (John 15:5).
In this podcast, I share an excerpt from the audio version of The Emotionally Healthy Leader where I talk about slowing down for loving union with Jesus. I do this because staying in communion with Jesus is THE most important leadership issue for each of us.
Remember this: You can’t do God’s work your way without paying a steep price. And you can’t live at warp speed without warping your soul. The impact of this is felt not simply in our personal lives but in our teams, families, and ministries we lead – regardless of how good things appear externally.
So take a deep breath. And receive God’s invitation to slow down through this podcast today.