Leading with a Biblical Perspective and Emotional Intelligence
Even the healthiest tree cannot assume responsibility for its effectiveness. The tree relies heavily on nutrients, minerals, and other ingredients in its soil. An environment makes all the difference! Not only does the tree need the resources immediately available and accessible, but it is dependent on its cultivators.
Jesus says that He prunes productive trees to make room for greater capacity to produce. Emotionally intelligent leaders do the same.
“He won't brush aside the bruised and the hurt and he won't disregard the small and insignificant, but he'll steadily and firmly set things right.” (Isaiah 42:3 MSG).
It is one of the greatest tragedies to see the vulnerable & disadvantaged go to leaders for guidance or wise counsel only to see their issues exacerbated because of a lack of emotional intelligence possessed by the individual in charge.
Throughout the Bible, history, and especially today, we see leaders revered for their philosophies, academic achievements, accomplishments, economic status, and eloquence. However, very few are known for their immaculate character, having a happy and healthy marriage, sacrificing themselves for the betterment of their subordinates, practicing honest dealings across the board, or cultivating diversity.
King Solomon writes, “God hates cheating in the marketplace; he loves it when business is aboveboard. The stuck-ups fall flat on their faces, but down-to-earth people stand firm. The integrity of the honest keeps them on track; the deviousness of crooks brings them to ruin.” (Proverbs 11:3 MSG).
In what way do we see emotionally intelligent leaders conduct themselves in our business environment? Are we that leader?
Honestly, this type of leadership is one of the most challenging endeavors. It is much easier to have titles and influence without character or compassion. Unfortunately, there seems to be a shortage of Christian leaders that operate at this level or from a godly perspective. Oh, the sad irony!
Leader, here are a few self-assessing questions for us:
1. Do we KNOW our team members from direct conversations and open dialogue or solely rely on the testimonies of others?
2. Do we cultivate a non-threatening environment where issues are dealt with directly and correction disseminated appropriately?
3. Do we educate, cross-train, and provide the proper resources for others to be successful?
4. Do we show favoritism or keep it professional, though we may have better relationships with some than others?
5. Can operations flow smoothly in our absence? Will the mission continue when we’re gone?
Very few people will own their improprieties.
Are you familiar with Proverbs 31 (the virtuous or morally excellent wife)? One day it became apparent that it was more about effective leadership and not just performing domestic responsibilities impeccably. The attitude of the work environment truly reflects that of the leader. The leader is the thermostat at work and especially at home. The leader will not have all the answers but knows how to access resources and put the right people in a position for the entire operation to be successful.
One of the greatest Pastors I knew was not articulate, hermeneutically sound, or graduated from Bible College. However, he loved God with a relentless love and passion, loved people, publicly corrected when it was necessary, preached Jesus, developed leaders, let them lead, and cultivated community. I feel the presence of God as I write about him. We were not a perfect church family, but a family. I believe this to be a way of doing our Father God's business.
Jesus says that He prunes productive trees to make room for greater capacity to produce. Emotionally intelligent leaders do the same. ~Wylie Foster
Healing, being open to learning, increasing emotional intelligence, and ridding of poor habits as individuals will help us be more effective leaders and not continue to do business as usual or inadequately.
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