A Peek Ahead

Are there times in your ministry when you need to revitalize the dream? We all go through those low points. We get stuck and realize our rut will require new tools to reinforce solid footing, in order to reach our goals. Read on to find out how animals can point us to the next step…

Do You Feel Powerless?

The stories of ants, coneys, locusts and lizards are recorded in Proverbs 30:24-28. Regarded as animals of no power yet extremely wise, these creatures hold great lessons for leaders. My NIV footnotes say, “Lack of individual power is no hindrance to great accomplishments if there is cooperative effort and wise planning.” (NIV Disciple’s Study Bible, Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers, 1988) p. 785.
First of all, a wise leader brings people on board with a vision. When cooperative effort is paired with a shared goal, extraordinary things begin to happen. John Maxwell says “Nobody can accomplish great things alone. To fulfill a big vision, you need a good team.” (Leadership 101, Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2002) p. 56.
Bring your team together by casting a concept for the desired outcome.
Secondly, a wise leader prepares with thorough planning. When you look at the details, you will consider the cause and effect of your plan. Turn your blueprint around and look at it from every angle. Ask, “How will my decisions affect others?”
Andy Stanley says there are “four components of an effective vision.
1. The problem
2. The solution
3. The reason something must be done
4. The reason something must be done now.” (Visioneering, Sisters: Multnomah, 1999) p. 86.
When you present your case fluently, passionately and convincingly, others will want to participate in your dream. Stanley advises, “It is only when the images which fill your mind are accurately conveyed to the minds of your audience that the vision has been cast. Take whatever time is necessary to develop a clear verbal picture.” (Visioneering, Sisters: Multnomah, 1999) p. 92.
Our family experienced the benefit of teamwork last weekend, when we celebrated my son’s high school graduation. Many hands came alongside to help us applaud that milestone, and we received support from every angle. Some lent carpentry skills, patio furniture and coolers for the food. Others pitched in to frost cupcakes, cut up fruit, fill their crock pots and greet guests. We reaped the rewards of a great cooperative effort paired with thorough planning!
It pays to apply the laws of leadership to every area of life. We need each other. And people find satisfaction in the work, as well as share in the joy of the outcome! So glean from the lessons found in the activities of ants (who prepare ahead), coneys (who provide protection), locusts (who work together) and lizards (who are not bound by limitations). When you empower others with a vision, you will equip yourself to tackle something big!

It’s Been How Long?

Though the ezine production has been stilled the last few months, the wheels are still churning. Tackling family issues and being consumed with the “Mom” role, I’ve been wondering how other moms survive work, family and time constraints. And, in the midst of feeling powerless to help my child through tough choices, I’m leaning heavily on my Abba-Daddy for wisdom. That’s where I should be all along, so I guess difficulties are a good thing, when they drive us back to our Father. Anne Graham Lotz says “To our heart-wrenched cries of Why? God’s ultimate answer is, “Jesus,” as He is glorified and magnified in our lives through our suffering.” (Why?, Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2004) p. 16.
May you find Jesus to be enough when you feel powerless, as well as when things are connecting.
Blessings,
Sally

Sally Ferguson

sallyswords@windstream.net

979 Southwestern Drive
Jamestown NY 14701

(716) 488-1254

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