Illustration - Visionary Leadership

In his book Survival Skills: Leading Your Church in a Changing World, Stan Toler quoted a church leader who obviously was seminar-weary: "I have a mission; or is it a vision; or are they goals? Oh, who cares! God will sort it all out in His will." But leadership without a definite vision is like a luxury car without an engine. The shiny materials are all there, but the drive is missing.

Stan writes: "Vision is like a thumb in the Christian leader's back. It encourages you to take bold steps toward Spirit-directed goals. It is not only the scaffolding of God's will for your life; it activates and focuses the skills of your fellow laborers. As you give people a clear picture of where they could be, they'll be more apt to head in that direction.

What is visionary leadership?

* It is directional. It points to definite places, times, and tangible results.
* It is practical. It sets goals and objectives that are within reach.
* It is motivational. It creates an environment of enthusiasm.
* It is eternal. It builds on the things that last forever.

The Swiss psychologist Carl Jung said, 'Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.' So look inside. See the resurrection power of the Holy Spirit that not only gives energy enough to awaken you, but direction enough to guide you." (Click here to learn more about the book Survival Skills)