Today we continue with part two in this series. (Read part one.) These articles developed from a recent gathering of all generations of women’s ministry.
Here are 10 more things leaders of all ages should do as they engage in ministry:
1. Work through preconceived notions. So many conflicts in ministry start with a preconceived idea about an issue. Seek to see from the other viewpoints as well as your own. Work toward solutions, not just raising questions. Seek to solve together rather than criticizing and saying you’d do things differently. Find a way to unify where you can, then seek solutions out of that unity. Respect one another. Always!
2. Be real. Today’s women need leaders who seek to be normal women, not super heroes. They are looking to women who are transparent and share their lives—both the successes and the struggles.
3. Communicate well. Never assume others know what you mean. Ask them to tell you what they heard, then listen for their input.
4. Value everyone’s contribution. Even if the idea shared seems “off the wall” or you’ve tried it many times before and it didn’t work, listen to the ideas again. Allow for a new attempt at it, be supportive, and then help them move on if it doesn’t work.
5. Identify and develop gifts. Always help women discover the strengths God has given them, then open doors for them to use those gifts as God calls them to a place of ministry. Include new members in serving. Show them that you really do need them and that they have a place to connect, grow, and serve.
6. Always be open to learning from one another. Remember that no matter what generation we are and no matter how short or long we’ve served, we all have something to learn from those we serve with. Be humble. Humility is a huge aspect of servant leadership. Christ modeled it well!
7. Constant evaluation is key. We will never get it perfect no matter how often we evaluate. But if we never ask how well something was carried out and whether or not lives were changed because of the ministry, we will never be open to making it more effective.
8. Learn to say no if God does not ask you to be involved in an area of service. Learn to say yes to each time He does assign you to a place of service.
9. Be OK with down time. In fact, plan for it. You cannot be “on the go” all the time. Rest helps you slow down, restore your energy, hear from God, and evaluate your life and ministry. Know your own energy level. Different things energize introverts and extroverts. Rest when you need to.
10. Know the difference between theology, tradition, and preference. And even with theology, know what is debatable but shouldn’t be or what is debatable and is worth the time to discuss.
Watch for the third article in this series on specific dos for older and younger leaders.
Chris Adams is senior lead women’s ministry specialist at LifeWay Christian Resources in Nashville, Tenn. Learn more about Chris here.
