This is a guest post by Joe Jansen. He is a former pastor of 18 years and the Director of U.S. Ministries at Elim Fellowship. Joe provides guidance to pastors on church growth strategies, maintaining healthy congregations, and personal transformation.
It has been all over the news: the cruise liner that was sailing off the coast of Italy and struck rocks, leaving a tilted ship, at least 6 passengers losing their lives, and thousands onboard terrified and needing to be rescued. The ship ran into unexpected trouble, and from reports, it seems that numerous people had made some mistakes. The ship was tilting in the face of obvious peril, and the crew was ill prepared to be a help to the frightened passengers. It is also reported that the captain abandoned ship in the midst of this deadly mishap.
This news reminded me of one of John Maxwell’s book, 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. Maxwell explains the law of navigation: anyone can steer the ship, but it takes a leader to chart the course. Leaders see the trip ahead and plan for it.
“First rate navigators always have in mind that other people are depending on them and their ability to chart a good course.”
The tragedy at sea last week might have been avoided if they had had a leader who understood the law of navigation, charted a safe course, thought ahead, and knew that many people were depending on him.
As you pastor your church, at the beginning of 2012, how is God leading YOU to chart the course this year?
I challenge you to take some time to establish the course and vision for yourself, your family, and your church.
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”