tThese are uncertain times in our churches, communities, our nation and the world. One things is for certain, life is always changing. With the current volatile political climate throughout our nation, life is changing. With the digital world, life is changing.
In these unprecented times, those of us who lead churches, organizations, even as parents, we must embrace leading through uncertainty.
In the church I have the joy of pastoring, we have been in a season of uncertainty. Since September, we have had one staff member sense God’s calling to a new ministry. Two other staff members retire. And one staff member called to the international mission field. I heard Andy Stanley once say, “In the midst of uncertainty, people need clarity.” So how do we lead through uncertainty?
Here are 5 reminders that have encouraged me and might help others when the time comes to leading through uncertain seasons.
- BE PRAYERFUL | When faced with uncertainty, there is a natural tendency in all of us to feel overwhelmed and look for the panic button. However, let me encourage you to pray first! It is amazing how the peace God calms our heart and mind we pray.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7 - BE SENSITIVE | For those who have been transformed by God’s grace through salvation in Jesus, the power of pray is how it connects us to His presence in our lives. And as we become more aware of His presence we begin to hear God speak… through His Word… through His Spirit within us… through our circumstances… through many ways. And when He speaks we must be sensitive to what He says. Where God guides, He provides.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 - BE CLEAR | When leading through uncertainty, those we lead do need clarity. Thinking back to 2020 and the Covid-19 pandemic. I recall being faced with a multitude of decisions regarding our response. When will we reopen? How will we reopen? What if we have a COVID outbreak after we reopen? We didn’t develop a perfect plan, but our staff developed a clear plan. And even though not everyone agreed, the clarity
The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand. Psalm 27:23-24 - BE CONSISTENT | When leading through uncertainty, this reminder is a biggie. Whether it be our churches or our businesses or our families, those we lead need consistency. They need someone they can look to who will not be tossed around by whatever circumstances may come. I am always reminded of Paul’s encouragement to Timothy regarding being consistent.
Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you. 2 Timothy 1:13-14 - BE LOVING | There are times when leading others that we can become so focused on the outcome or the task at hand, that we lose sight of the reason God has called us to lead. It is out of a love and care for people. When leading through uncertainty, allow others to see the love you have for them.
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8
What am I missing? What other reminders can you share about leading through uncertainty?
