Is merciful leadership an oxymoron or is it effective leadership? The traditional American view of leadership is gruff and somewhat ruthless. The take-no-prisoners style of management, however, rarely produces dedicated followers. While ruthless leaders can achieve results, even amazing results, they leave a trail of wounded victims in their wake. Too often, this philosophy of leadership has infiltrated church leadership.
Jesus promises in the Beatitudes that the merciful will receive mercy. Just as those who live by the sword will die by the sword, those who show mercy will receive mercy. Leaders, remember to be good stewards of the authority you’ve been given. Just because you “can” doesn’t always mean that you “should.”
If you find yourself veering more on the dictatorial/micro-managing side of leadership, take these tips to heart:
- Don’t take yourself too seriously. We’ve seen the Barney Fife/Paul Blart characters that take authority too far. It never ends well.
- Turn the tables. Before dealing with a situation, imagine yourself in the other person’s circumstance. How would you expect to be treated?
- WWJD? Yeah, it was weird as a bracelet, but it’s an effective mantra for ministry. Would Jesus throw the book at the individual or extend mercy?
Allow input from your staff and from peer leaders. If you find yourself becoming afraid to solicit input or easily offended at the input you’re receiving, watch out.
Mark Forrester 