Leadership Focus

This morning in my office I have been reading e-mails and blogs from some people that I really respect in ministry. I typically devote the first part of my day to catching up on what some people are writing and saying and thinking through my reaction and feelings about their thoughts. I read stuff from guys I respect a ton: Steven Furtick, Perry Noble, Gary Lamb, Ed Young, Jr., Andy Stanley, etc. All of these guys are pastoring churches that are really making a difference in the kingdom of God. I want to learn from them as much as I possibly can.

One thing that I consistently notice is that they are extremely focused. The men I read and the churches they lead have a singular focus that I strive for in my own life: Jesus Christ above everything else. They are always sharing stories of how lives are being changed because of Jesus. They challenge me, they encourage me and they frustrate me because I am not sure that I maintain my focus as well as I should.

It is so easy to compare lives and ministries with men you have never met. There are so many things behind the scenes that we never hear, but they are doing big things for God and sometimes it is easy to get sidetracked into thinking that because our church is not as large, our ministry is not well known or no one is asking me to write books or speak at conferences that somehow I am insignificant to the kingdom of God. That is simply a case of sin and pride getting the best of me. It is ego at its worst.

When it comes to following God, all of us have things to offer. God never told us to seek out fame or favor, God simply called us to obedience. When you start feeling like you don’t matter in the kingdom, simply ask yourself a questions: “Am I being obedient to what God has called me to do with my life?” If you answer yes, then you have understood that your life matters for eternity. If you are not sure, then ask yourself, “Where can I serve, where can I lead, and where can I grow to be all that God called me to be?” Then call me. Let’s have lunch or grab a Starbucks and talk about where God may be leading you.

You matter to God. LifeQuest Church matters to God. And you have a role to play in declaring the fame and the name of Jesus Christ!!

To paraphrase Stuart Smalley from the old Saturday Night Live routine: “You’re good enough, you’re smart enough, and gosh darn it, Jesus likes you!!!”