FIVE WAYS TO ENCOURAGE YOUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
Effective leaders approach their positions as a responsibility rather than a right. One of the greatest responsibilities of any leader is the development of his team. Leadership provides the awesome opportunity of developing those people God has entrusted to your care.
The serious and sobering nature of leadership is addressed in Hebrews 13:7 which reminds leaders they will give an account for those to whom they minister because “they watch for your souls.”
Leadership is more that being a boss. It is more than basic instruction, even though you may feel a bit more adept at giving direction. This is definitely a critical part of leadership. However, encouragement and guidance are also foundational. We find a good example of this in Deuteronomy 3:28, where Moses was instructed to ‘charge, encourage and strengthen’ Joshua.
I want to suggest five ways to develop and encourage your leadership team.
- Build Mutual Respect – We do this when we show honor or take time to cultivate relationships. This does not require being best friends with every person but there should be an effort to make a connection. (Proverbs 17:17; 1 Peter 2:17)
- Build Credibility – You will want to lend credibility to younger leadership. One of the ways leaders do this is by practicing public and private praise of those working with them. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
- Build Team Spirit – Communication is strategic to building an effective team. This will require a willingness to share your heart and passion as well as practicing the art of listening. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10; Romans 15:5-6)
- Build the Individual – Assisting in an individual’s growth process means taking the time to evaluate both their strengths and weaknesses for the purpose of encouragement. (Acts 15:36; Proverbs 27:5-6, 23)
- Build by Modeling – Others will be encouraged by your example in stewardship and servitude. Remember, leadership by example is encouraging and motivational. More is caught than taught. (Ephesians 5:15-16; Philippians 2:5-7)
One of my favorite examples of leadership in the Bible is found by comparing the difference we find between 1 Samuel 22:2 and 2 Samuel 23:9-10. In the first, David recruited those who were “in distress, in debt and were discontented” but the second refers to them as “mighty men of valor”!
In reading the two passages, the only difference in these men was a lengthy association with a godly leader. I am challenged every time I am reminded of this truth – to take my leadership seriously and to be committed to encouragement.
