So many pushes and pursuits in leadership! So many skills to learn, projects to see through, conflicts to navigate. Skill is essential in leadership no doubt, but this is not the starting point. King David, in the Old Testament, was blessed and chosen not for his amazing skill. He was chosen because of his pursuit. He pursued the heart of the Lord. Spiritual leaders have the same pressures every other leader encounters, but we must start different. Our pursuit can include skills and learning, but it must begin with the pursuit of the Lord.
The leader’s first pursuit is the Lord. Not church development! Not impact! Christ alone. Sure, we can cover our lack of inner work with Kingdom language – “This is for the Kingdom!” – but can it be when we are not first for the King?
Our pursuit can in fact be measured. What is the subject of our prayers? How do we read scripture – for others or for our own development? Is my schedule reflecting my first pursuit?