I recently listened to a podcast by Selma Wilson called, Writing Your Leadership Story, and I thought about our recent Women’s Leadership Forum for 2016.
My closing message to these leaders (some who have attended all 21 of these forums!) was one of closure for me as I retire next March 1. My message truly was a glimpse into my leadership story. It was about what I wanted them to know about the various seasons of leadership and life and how each one is vital to prepare for our continued journey with the Lord.
We are all on a leadership journey whether it’s just beginning, in the middle, or maturing in leadership. That’s not just talking about age, but the season of the leadership call God has on your life. Although I am in the maturing stage in the position as women’s specialist at Lifeway, I am on a beginning journey for whatever the Lord will lead me to do as I continue to serve.
Each season is so exciting and hard all at the same time. In every season and in every leadership position God calls us to, we are to “replicate” what He is doing in our lives into the lives of others. Paul boldly stated: “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ.”
(1 Corinthians 11:1).
I have struggled with this Scripture, feeling like I could NOT say that to those I lead. Yet, when I see what Paul really was doing—following HARD after Jesus and taking others along with Him—then I understand that this is what we all are to do.
So my questions to you today are:
- How are you writing your leadership story?
- Who are you taking with you?
- What do you want them to replicate from your life?
- What do you NOT want them to replicate from your life?
- What can you do today to grow in Christ as you serve and lead wherever He calls you?
Remember, every day you are writing your leadership story.
Chris Adams is senior lead women’s ministry specialist at Lifeway Christian Resources in Nashville, Tenn. Learn more about Chris here.
