Bill Hybels in his latest book "Axiom" talks about his biggest mistake he's ever made as a leader. His response is insightful and an all to often heard comment.

"My biggest mistake has been placing people in significant leadership roles who were not first tested."

For me this has been the most chilling mistake I have ever made. I did it in my early ministry a lot. You'd think I would have learned ... remarkably I didn't! I kept doing it and kept doing it. Thankfully I think I have learned ... fingers crossed!

I ask this question; WHY do we place the wrong people in positions? I have 4 answers ...

1. We like someone and think the chemistry we had with each other would some how carry us through hard times. Invariably this will break down over a whole pile of others issues and you end up no longer being friends.

2. I gave someone a job because I wanted to keep them in church and happy. I learned a long time ago that what ever you compromise to keep you will eventually lose. This includes people you put into positions of leadership. Never put some one in leadership because you want to keep them because you will eventually lose them.

3. They looked good but eventually the real them will be revealed. This is why we need to come back to 1 Timothy 3:10 that says "they must first be tested." I have met a lot of people who look good. They have a "great menu" but have nothing good cooking in the kitchen. Test people first; nudge them in small and gentle ways to find out what's in their heart - do this before you put them in any position of leadership.

4. I have a leadership position "open" and I NEED someone to fill it NOW. Never surrender to the urgency of the moment. Never put some one in positions of leadership just because you are in desperate need. WAIT; PRAY; SEEK; LOOK for some one - but never be in a hurry to put some one in place until they are tested, proved and tried. God knows your need, God is aware of the situation. TRUST HIM.

Just a few thought for leaders in today's church. If you have any other thoughts why not comment below with your insights too.

Thanks for reading I hope this has helped you to become a more prepared leader.

Hear from you soon,

Tom Rawls
tomrawls@proclaimers.com