When we think of developing our leadership skills, forgiveness isn’t typically one of the first characteristics we think of. In a secular work environment, this quality could be a sign of weakness or foolishness. However, Jesus was the prime example of leadership, and He led with humility. Nothing about Jesus’ character was prideful, and we should follow this example. Long-time pastor and author Mark Jordan challenges leaders in his book, Living and Leading in Ministry, to not be above asking for forgiveness. This story from his book illustrates this key leadership skill:
Living and Leading in Ministry
J. Mark Morgan
When my wife and I arrived in Toledo, we started a youth chorale. After a year or so, some bad attitudes developed, and keeping the group together became a big hassle for me. I disbanded it. The next morning, I shared my rather arbitrary decision with the senior pastor. He was not happy, to put it mildly. He asked me what I did wrong in my leadership to destroy a ministry that was growing into a great blessing to the church. I could not believe it. It was not me, I assured him, but the kids who were so irresponsible, disrespectful, unmanageable, and downright spoiled that I was not going to put up with it any longer. He would have none of it. He pressed me to find out what I did wrong. Finally, I admitted to some very minor offenses. I had been late to a couple of practices and I might have shown some impatience a time or two. He told me that was enough. He instructed me to call a meeting of the chorale, apologize for my failures, and ask for forgiveness. Embarrassed and somewhat angry, I had no choice but to obey my boss. The effect was electrifying. No sooner had I followed through with my distasteful chore than the atmosphere in the room changed dramatically. One by one, the kids stood and asked me to forgive them. They insisted that they were indeed the ones at fault and they were sorry. A prayer meeting ensued and rotten attitudes miraculously changed into loving and repentant dispositions. After that incident, the fortunes of the group flourished. We organized two tours, recorded a tape, and made a major contribution to the lives of the young people and to the church. If I had placed myself above asking for forgiveness, I would not only have forfeited the successes that came to that musical group, I would have sabotaged the will of God in my own ministry and leadership. A wise pastor knew that all of this was at stake.
He also knew that I needed to learn to ask for forgiveness early in my ministry or would face insurmountable problems later.
This story from Living and Leading in Ministry shows how the willingness to admit fault, even if only at partial fault, can make you a more respected leader. It develops trust between the leader and followers. Throughout the book Jordan shares many more wise qualities to ensure success as a leader. He also includes many stories that help us practically visualize these qualities in action. This book leads you to ask yourself hard questions about your leadership and ultimately your character.
It is so easy to assume we hold humility because we do not ask for recognition when we accomplish something. In all actuality, that is just a small part of humility.
Humility is not just what you don’t do, but it is also what you do. Share on XDo I admit my faults? Do I own up to a mistake? Do I take corrections with a critical and bitter spirit or with an open and remorseful spirit? These are all difficult questions to ask yourself but they lead to deeper self-reflection. Jesus shows us how to lead, and even if it is sometimes painful, we need to recognize those carnal areas in ourselves that do not match Jesus’ leadership qualities. Then we can change these qualities, with His help, and become the leaders He has called us to be.
If you would like to enhance your leadership traits that go beyond talent in a job or ministry field, you can follow this link to purchase Living and Leading in Ministry and glean from this challenging and beneficial book.