2Tim 1:6-7 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, 7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Among the great fears of most thoughtful pastors is becoming the lid on the church’s potential. That was continually true of me, but especially in the transition from seminary to a lead pastor role. I was confident in my Biblical training and my calling but NOT in my leadership capacity. As the church grew through different seasons, I was grateful and excited. But there was often a nagging anxiety about whether I could grow enough as a leader to keep leading well in the church I loved.
Leadership can be taught! That was good news for a nervous heart!
The most significant early book (outside of the Bible) that gave me hope and practical help was Developing the Leader Within You by John Maxwell. There has been a flood of pastoral leadership books since, but this was foundational for me early in ministry. I found myself coming back to it often and reading it with others I sought to develop.
Continue reading Book Highlight: “Developing the Leader Within You” by John Maxwell
The Pastor's Life 