A Note from Chris Adams: Leaders are disciples seeking to grow, just like those they lead. To be effective and continue growing, we need a few close relationships that hold us accountable and challenge us to keep learning to lead well. Simone Monroe, director of Women’s Ministries at Lake Pointe Church in Dallas, TX shares her own leadership story today.
Everyone desires to be close to the leader. This often presents a problem if the leader seemingly has a closer relationship with some more than others. That being said, I believe that every leader needs to have an “inner circle.” Not only is this beneficial, but it is biblical. If you will remember, Jesus had a lot of followers including 12 disciples and His “inner circle” made up of Peter, James, and John.
An inner circle provides:
- Accountability of the leader
- A sounding board for the leader in making
- Perspective for the leader in difficult situations
- Honest feedback to the leader concerning situations within the larger group
- A safe place for the leader to be themselves and receive encouragement
As a leader seeks to identify those who will become part of that “inner circle,” they need to look for specific character traits. It is essential that these individuals possess traits such as honesty, wisdom, discernment, the ability to speak truth in the face of adversity, a global perspective on the ministry rather than a focus on a special interest, and biblical understanding combined with a close walk with the Lord.
The women God has given to me in this area are taking our ministry to a new level without anyone even knowing they exist as an “inner circle” for the ministry. God has given them to me as a gift. He did not bring them together at one time as this “inner circle.” He brought them one by one. None of them had been friends of one another, but I would dare say they are extremely close now. And even though they are my “inner circle,” they do not feel more important than anyone else on the team or seen as having special insights because we are careful to not identify them as a special group. They are servants and serve as such alongside everyone else.
Each has special areas of gifting. One speaks truth from God’s Word into every decision and situation we face. Another is a great businesswoman and deeply in love with the Lord. One sees the big picture and how it will be affected due to her ability to think globally. She is also a connector of people. Still another has exceptional organizational and people skills. All have exceptional abilities in the area of teaching, mentoring, leadership, or administration. Each is a tremendous prayer warrior. They all have permission to speak honestly and directly into my life as God leads them and into His ministry as He directs.
Having people to speak into your life and ministry makes all the difference. “Inner circle” people do not need attention, and they are willing to give “above and beyond” with their time and talents for the good of the ministry. To say I am blessed would be an understatement. Ask God to identify your “inner circle” to you.
Simone Monroe is the director of Women’s Ministries at Lake Pointe Church in Dallas, TX, a Global Strategist for ProvenWay Ministries, and a LifeWay Ministry Multiplier. As a speaker, conference leader, and freelance writer, she is also a member of the Association of Women’s Ministry Professionals. Simone has earned a Masters degree in Christian Leadership and a Certificate in Women’s Leadership from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Forth Worth, TX. Simone’s passion is teaching and developing women to fulfill their God-given potential.
