VOL 4 NO 4
OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2012
TRANSPARENCY IN LEADERSHIP LEADING AND LISTENING QUALITIES OF A LEADER
Leadership LEARNING ABOUT BIBLE STUDY BY LINDA HIMES
E Q U I P P I N G
W O M E N
F O R
M I N I S T R Y
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M I S S I O N
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LEADERSHIP 05 Transparency in Leadership 09 Walk Worthy
WORLD PRESIDENT OF WOMEN’S MINISTRY
11 Leadership Lessons from a King
OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2012
revive@salvationarmy.org
15 Leading and Listening 19 Leadership Qualities 20 Leading Simply 22 Staying Connected to the Vine
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COLUMNS
IN EVERY ISSUE
10 The Identified Leader LEADERSHIP
02 Book Reviews
17 Spiritual Leadership SPIRITUAL LIFE
04
Editorial
18 The Prayer House
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23 Coming resource/iQuote
All Bible quotations throughout this edition of Revive are from the New International Version 2011 unless stated otherwise TM - The Message, GW - God’s Word, NASB - New American Standard Bible, NKSV - New King James Version, KJV - King James Version, GNB - Good News Bible, NLT - New Living Translation, NIV 1984 - New International Version 1984, SASB - The Song Book of The Salvation Army
Front Cover: Photo of Linda Himes Back Cover: Proverbs 14:28 in Urdu and English, illustration by Berni Georges
A resource magazine for women in ministry and mission Publisher: Commissioner Sue Swanson, World President of Women’s Ministries Communications Secretary, Editor-in-Chief, Literary Secretary, IHQ: Lieut-Colonel Laurie Robertson Editor: Lieut-Colonel Simone Robertson Designer: Berni Georges © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012 Founders of The Salvation Army: William and Catherine Booth Printed in the UK by Lamport Gilbert Printers Ltd
Contact email address: revive@salvationarmy.org
The Salvation Army International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street London EC4V 4EH United Kingdom
Articles on any subject of interest to women in ministry are welcomed by the editor. To send an article, write to revive@salvationarmy.org Subscription details at: http://sar.my/revsubu (Revive subscription UK) http://sar.my/revsubo (Revive subscription overseas)
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editorial
honouring leaders Lieut-Colonel Simone Robertson EDITOR
L
eadership affects us all. Throughout our life we are either leading or being led! Proverbs says; ‘Without leadership a nation falls, but lots of good advice will save it’ (Proverbs 11:14 NCV). Effective leadership and ‘followership’ are both vital. This issue of Revive explores a number of leadership aspects including; the importance of being a transparent leader, leadership qualities and the necessity to Walk Worthy. A Bible study – ‘Leadership Lessons from a King’ focuses on King Jehosphat and what we can learn from him. It does us good to remember, however, that Christian leadership is not just concerned with transparency, qualities and processes – it’s about relationships – how we minister together and how leaders and followers treat each other. As well as leaders having the responsibility to develop and care for others, God wants followers to encourage and thank their leaders.
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Paul tells us: ‘Dear brothers and sisters, honour those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other’ (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 NLT). This doesn’t mean that leaders are more important than anyone else. Mutual respect and love are normal Christian responses. But do we respect our leaders by taking hold of this verse of Scripture and put it into practice? Are the words we use about them ones of encouragement? How do we work at living together peacefully? Where does prayer fit into providing uplifting support for leaders? It is crucial that leaders are prayed for regularly. Prayer is a key way for us to show love and respect. Taking the time to intentionally pray for those who lead us, maybe even asking if there is something specific they would like us to pray about, reveals that we want them to stay in tune with Jesus. In conjunction with prayer, the sending of an encouraging note also lets leaders know that ‘The giving of our time they are appreciated. The giving of our time is another practical way to is another practical positively build into leaders. Remember, they are people way to positively too, and they may like to be invited out to dinner or on a build into group outing. Even if they never come out with us, the simple fact of being invited can be encouraging. However, leaders’ we need to be sensitive and not put them into situations where they feel uncomfortable. Leadership is not an easy responsibility – whether it be leading ourselves to make the best decisions or leading groups of people – the encouragement of others helps us to do our best. If there is a particular aspect of leadership you believe would be helpful for Revive to address, please email me at revive@salvationarmy.org. I would love to hear from you.
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wo glasses containing the same amount of water provide us with a simple illustration of transparency. Only one of the glasses contains clean, fresh water, whilst the other is full of sediment which, when disturbed, clouds the water, making it impossible to see through it. Being transparent in leadership is similar to this basic illustration. To be effective leaders there must be transparency in our lives, work and relationships with others. Transparency in leadership goes hand in hand with teamwork and integrity.
There are various leadership styles, there are leaders who are reticent to face the truth and then share this with others. It is almost as though these leaders choose not to be aware of what is going on around them and therefore do not need to take action or make changes. In many ways it is easier to lead in a dictatorial manner, but, this style of leadership often results in people following orders out of fear, rather than being part of the solution and responding out of conviction. In some parts of the world, there is still the idea that the leader knows it all and cannot make mistakes! Revive 5
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The idea of democratic leadership – sharing decision-making and problem-solving – is foreign to people in these situations. Therefore, when a leader includes those around them in such a way, they can feel out of their depth. They may also think that by asking questions the leader is showing weakness as she is expected to have all the answers! It can also be the case that some leaders want to ‘protect’ what they perceive to be their privileges and do not want people to see, or know, what they are doing. This has the potential to lead to the abuse of both people and systems.
Jesus provided an excellent example of transparency in leadership
Within the pages of the New Testament we discover that Jesus was a transparent leader. He told the disciples the truth about himself, about what was going to happen, and that following him would not be an easy option. He also explained, on a number of occasions, that he would suffer, die and rise from the dead. When encouraging people to follow him, Jesus could have said, ‘Follow me and life will be easy because I am the promised Messiah’, but that was not his style. He chose to tell the truth and warn people that if they decided to follow him they may be rejected, just as he had been. As a recognised rabbi, healer and important figure in the community, who perhaps may have expected both respect and courtesy, Jesus could have demanded anything he desired and expected it to be given to him. Once again, this was not his leadership style. Jesus chose to identify with the human race and demonstrated this when he attended a wedding; cried over the death of a friend; slept in a boat when he was exhausted; took time out to be alone; accepted invitations to eat with sinners and allowed people to get close to him. What a wonderful example!
Being transparent in leadership starts at corps level
You might have noticed that although a corps may decline during the stay of one officer, it thrives when another is appointed. What is the difference? The same people are involved, yet the leadership dynamic has changed. A leader needs to inspire those they lead. 6 Revive
We find that where a leader involves every soldier and friend, where they seek God’s leading, enjoy a good team spirit, and lead with integrity and transparency in all matters, corps grow.
1 Reasons to be transparent in leadership
People like to know the truth and relate to it The people we lead desire authenticity. They do not want us to pretend that things are other than what they are. When there is a lack of transparency and honesty, nothing is as it appears to be and therefore issues cannot be faced and tackled. It is as though we live under an illusion and forget that it is ‘…the truth [that] will set you [us] free’ (John 8:32)! Being an authentic leader involves living honestly and being transparent in our lives as well as our work. Those we lead need to know that what we say is true in our daily living. We need to practise what we preach. People like to be treated with respect and dignity When we lead with transparency – ‘telling things as they are’ – and inviting participation from those we lead, people feel
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To be effective leaders there must be transparency in our lives, work and relationships with others respected and valued. If the leader is a dictator, people quickly become demotivated. The same applies if an insecure leader answers questions or comments with, ‘Trust me, I know best. You must obey’. Perhaps these approaches have worked in the past, but they will not work in the 21st century. People like to be involved in finding a solution to a problem. As leaders we need to recognise that the world has, and is, changing. Many people, especially the younger generation, have been lost to the Army and even to God’s Kingdom. A strong contributing factor to this is often that their leader lacked transparency and was not authentic in their Christianity. The mission is advancing Reality has shown that in many places where the mission is growing there is transparency, integrity, involvement, trust and a strong team spirit.
2 Results of transparency in leadership ●● ●● ●● ●●
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People feel trusted. People feel involved and take an active part. People feel valued. We gain the respect of our people, not just with regard to our title or position, but more importantly because of the person we are. Where there is transparency there is good team spirit, a good working atmosphere where people are not afraid to share their ideas and make a contribution. Other people often have skills and ideas that we may not have. Getting people involved can be beneficial to the leader. The combined effort will achieve more and reflect positively on our leadership. The mission grows and develops.
3 Dangers of transparency in leadership
It is important that we are wise when leading with transparency. Too much transparency can be overwhelming and have a negative effect on people. We can be transparent in many subjects but, of course, anything relating to the private lives of our people should be kept confidential. To be too transparent about ourselves can also be negative, especially if we give the impression that we are worth nothing and that life is too difficult. This would give a negative picture of the power of God in our lives. Instead of being a tool to encourage people, we would discourage them from turning to God.
4 Requirements for transparency in leadership
Trust We need to able to trust each other. Where this breaks down it is difficult to be transparent and working relationships become strained. Revive 7
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Good knowledge of the situation As leaders we need to have a good working knowledge of the requirements related to our position. We need to be well informed, to know what we are facing before we set about finding solutions. The faith-based facilitation tools (available from IHQ – www.salvationarmy.org/fbf ) can be used at leadership level to do just that, helping us to find solutions together. Integrity People need to know that ‘what you see is what you get’. There must be a willingness and openness to scrutiny. If we are afraid of this, it could mean that we have something to hide. Of course corruption is linked with integrity and we need to be aware of this and not fall into temptation. If we want to be taken seriously as a leader we need to address these issues. Good communication This is vital in transparent leadership. Clear systems, good governance, clear strategies People need to be aware of both strategy and future planning. Updated accounts and financial reporting The lack of transparency in accounting creates suspicion. This is a large grey area that can be easily addressed by employing competent, qualified accountants! Optimism We must believe in the power of God to transform people. Even when facing difficulty a strong leader will remain optimistic, because she knows that God is in control and that if she does her part, God will do his. The world around us is crying out for transparency and integrity! People are dissatisfied with pretence and desire authenticity and openness in leaders in all areas of their lives and ministry. 8 Revive
‘Even when facing difficulty a strong leader will remain optimistic, because she knows that God is in control’ Transparency is a buzzword. It is the subject of many debates and conversations. In a way, there is actually no other choice today but to be transparent. Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 10 highlights how important transparency was to him. ‘There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops… Everyone who confesses me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in Heaven’ (Matthew 10:26-32 NASB). Within the Kingdom of God, open-handed honesty is the order of the day. ‘We have renounced secret and shameful ways, we do not use deception, nor do we distort the Word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God’ (2 Corinthians 4:2, 3). If you choose the road of transparency in your leadership, it will not be the easier route, in fact quite the opposite. You need to come alongside people and be ready to speak, explain, listen to and share in discussion with those you lead. You will also need to put in place proper systems and face opposition if necessary. In the end though, with God’s grace, it will all be worthwhile.
Silvia Cox Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland
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WOMEN’S MINISTRIES – NEW YEAR MESSAGE
2013 OFFICE OF THE WORLD PRESIDENT OF WOMEN’S MINISTRIES
‘…we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way.
Dear Sisters in Christ,
Colossians 1:9-10 (NIV 1984)
Greetings to you all in the name and power of Jesus! May his grace and peace be your special gifts as we begin this New Year. The international theme selected for this year is ‘Walk Worthy’. It stems from Paul’s prayer for the saints in Colossae. These believers had come to faith in Christ. Their lives were a witness to the community in which they lived and the testimony about them was this; they expressed their faith by loving people. We want the hallmark of our global Women’s Ministries to be the same: we also express our faith by loving people. When Paul prays for these Christ-followers he wants God to help them to ‘walk in a manner worthy of the Lord’ (NASV). And that is our prayer for our global Women’s Ministries. We want to pay attention to what it means to ‘Walk Worthy’. It will involve knowing his will, seeking to please him and ‘bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God’ (v10). We pray that in all we do we will be living lives that bring honour to him. May God bless us as we seek to ‘Walk Worthy’. May our life-walk give witness to Jesus who is ‘the Way, the Truth, and the Life’ (John 14:6). I pray that women will be attracted to Christ because our lives honour him. He walked worthy. Now, let’s walk worthy too.
Sue Swanson Commissioner
World President of Women’s Ministries
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The
leadership
Identified
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have been pondering the issue of identity – a life-long I have many labels that ‘describe’ me – but none of those is my ‘pondering’ – since I am a twin. My sister was born 44 minutes true identity. To be a Relational Leader, Prophetic Leader, Missional before me. I was born at 12 noon – ‘just in time for lunch’ – my Leader (as mentioned in my 2012 articles), we must walk in our sister used to say to anyone who would listen. true identity. This is not the label the world, culture or the Church Even though we are fraternal twins we look and sound very gives us but, rather, the identity we have in Christ. The enemy of much alike and are often mistaken for one another. our soul will do all he can to ensure that we care Because we are both officers serving in the USA I have many more about our labels than our identity. Central Territory we have potential to create drama at The truth is this, when we are saved we take on labels that any territorial event. We have unintentionally caused Christ’s identity. The name and essential character some confusion when people expect to be warmly ‘describe’ me that identifies us is that we are ‘in Christ’, reconciled greeted by Major Cindy Strickler, and instead LieutCreator and living now to reconcile the world – but none of toto our Colonel Susan Bukiewicz walks by with a nod and him. ‘But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s smile. So in the interest of self-preservation we have those is my physical body through death to present you holy in found it easier to stay together during these events, sight, without blemish and free from accusation’ true identity his and just hug everyone! (Colossians 1:22). People called us ‘the twins’, but the story of our ‘naming’ is I am reconciled with God! My identity is fused with my interesting. Our mum and dad, also Salvation Army officers, had Saviour’s. My identity has merged with God’s. My labels will no idea that the birth of their first baby was going to be in two never mean anything to the Lord, but my identity does. No more instalments. My mum wondered if she was giving birth to an identity crisis for this leader! octopus because they hadn’t considered the possibility of twins. They had decided on the boy’s name, but a girl’s name was a problem. Mum wanted a ‘Cindy Marie’ and dad wanted a ‘Susan We thank Lieut-Colonel Susan Bukiewicz for her columns this year. Lynn’. They could not agree on the name for a girl, even up to The new columnist for 2013 will be Major Val Mylechreest, Adult and Family Ministries Officer Evangelism Department, the birth. So when my sister was born and the doctor said, ‘Wait, United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. there’s another one taking her sweet time’, my folks were ecstatic. Both were able to use their chosen names for their twin daughters. Nevertheless, I grew up yearning to be one-of-a-kind – unique – special. I wanted an identity other than the one that always attached me to someone else. Lieut-Colonel Susan Bukiewicz Through the years, I’ve come to know that a label is different Divisional Director For Women’s from an identity. A label describes a person or group. Whereas Ministries, Metropolitan Division USA Central Territory identity is the name or essential character that identifies someone.
Columnist for 2012
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Leadership d
LESSONS FROM A
King Linda Himes
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hildren love to play ‘follow the leader’. I remember, as a child the many hours of laughter, as our appointed leader led us skipping, hopping, running, jumping or tumbling around our neighbourhood. It was fun to imitate the leader but then it was my turn to lead and I was unsure of so many things. When do you run and for how long? How many times do you jump before you start skipping? Tough decisions! God calls us to be leaders in our homes, churches, communities and our world. If we are to influence people for him, we must live a life worth following. Who do we look to for examples of leadership? The Bible is full of both good and bad leaders from whom we can learn. Let’s look at King Jehoshaphat for some principles of good leadership.
Leaders Must be Courageous
It is not unusual for leaders to lead under less than ideal circumstances. That was the case with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah (2 Chronicles 20 NIV 1984). He received word that three armies were on their way to make war with him, and they were already very close. Even though he was the king, his reaction was what you would expect from anyone outnumbered three to one. He was alarmed. However, his actions were not what you would expect from a king. He should have been calling his troops together to prepare to fight the enemy. Instead, ‘Jehoshaphat resolved to
‘Remember that God is
more powerful than you no matter what
your position’
enquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah’ (v3).
1. How do you see courage displayed by the king’s actions?
2. What important lesson can you learn from his example?
Leaders Must Maintain an Active Prayer Life
Once his people were gathered at the temple of the Lord, he stood and prayed. His prayer is a good pattern to follow (v612): ‘O Lord, God of our fathers, are you not the God who is in Heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you’ (v6). King Jehoshaphat first worshipped God by recognising that while he is the ruler
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over the nation of Judah, God is the ruler over all kingdoms. Leaders must never forget where their authority comes from. Remember that God is more powerful than you no matter what your position. Next the king recalls what God has done for them in the past and the promise he made to hear their prayers and answer them. Focusing on God, who has the power to help you, and remembering that he has done it before, lowers your anxiety level in any leadership challenge (v7-9). As a leader you sometimes find yourself in situations that don’t seem fair. You may not understand what is happening, but that does not change the fact that it is happening. This was Jehoshaphat’s experience. He admitted he did not understand it and didn’t know what to do. However, his resolve was firm as he said ‘…our eyes are upon you’ (v12).
1. What part of the king’s prayer speaks to you?
2. What do you understand about the king’s relationship with God?
Leaders Obey God’s Plan
While the people were still gathered, God sent his answer to the king’s prayer through a prophet.
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‘Good news leaders –
it’s not your battle! All you have to do is show up and watch God
fight for you’
‘He said: “Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.’”’ (v15-17) Good news leaders – it’s not your battle! All you have to do is show up and watch God fight for you. Recognise that God’s plan is not always logical because his ways are not our ways! Leaders have a tendency to develop a detailed plan to face challenges. Don’t forget, Jehoshaphat was a king with an army trained to go into battle, but God was saying not to fight. It is
hard to have the faith to trust God when his plan does not seem to make sense. Leaders also must be obedient to God’s timeline. His plans don’t always fit your personal calendar but, as we will see in King Jehoshaphat’s story, you never want to alter God’s timeline. God told him to go the next day. The king could easily have said that did not give him enough time to mobilise his army. He could also have argued that the enemy was on their way so they should get going now. God said ‘tomorrow’!
1. What do you do when the answer God gives does not make sense?
2. What lesson do you learn from obeying God in those situations?
Leaders Communicate a Clear Vision
King Jehoshaphat involved his people in this challenge from the beginning. They were made aware of the situation and they witnessed their leader seek God’s direction. Then they observed him bowing to the ground and worshipping the Lord for the answer to prayer (v18,19). When you make yourself accountable to God’s people, it gives you more courage to follow God’s plan. Early the next morning the people set out with Jehoshaphat reminding them to
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have faith in God and his message, and they would be upheld. Then, as their leader, he shared the plan as to how they would go to meet the enemy. ‘Early in the morning they left for the Desert of Tekoa. As they set out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, “Listen to me, Judah and people of Jerusalem! Have faith in the Lord your God and you will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you will be successful.” After consulting the people, Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the Lord and to praise him for the splendour of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: “Give thanks to the Lord, for his love endures forever.” As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated’ (v20-22). This portion of Scripture always brings a smile to my face as I envision King Jehoshaphat walking among his men asking who sings tenor and who sings bass. Then he did something that makes no sense. He put the singers at the head of the army. If you were going to war wouldn’t you want your fighters to be at the head of the army? But God told him this was not his battle, and the people of Judah were only going out to watch God fight for them. Placing the singers in the lead,
singing thanks to God before he did anything, was an act of faith in God’s plan, and a clear communication to the people of how that objective was going to be carried out. Everyone was united in the vision and their actions initiated God’s plan (v23-28). ‘The men of Ammon and Moab rose up against the men from Mount Seir to destroy and annihilate them. After they finished slaughtering the men from Seir, they helped to destroy one another. When the men of Judah came to the place that overlooks the desert and looked towards the vast army, they saw only dead bodies lying on the ground; no one had escaped. So Jehoshaphat and his men went to carry off their plunder, and they found among them a great amount of equipment and clothing and also articles of value – more than they could take away. There was so much plunder that it took three days to collect it. On the fourth day they assembled in the Valley of Beracah, where they praised
the Lord. This is why it is called the Valley of Beracah to this day. Then, led by Jehoshaphat, all the men of Judah and Jerusalem returned joyfully to Jerusalem, for the Lord had given them cause to rejoice over their enemies. They entered Jerusalem and went to the temple of the Lord with harps and lutes and trumpets. The fear of God came upon all the kingdoms of the countries when they heard how the Lord had fought against the enemies of Israel. And the kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side’ (v23-30).
1. How did King Jehoshaphat
communicate the plan to his people?
2. Why were his people willing to follow him?
The harps, lutes and trumpets played for the great time of rejoicing
Revive 13
bible study Leaders are Humble
After the battle Jehoshaphat led all of his men joyfully back to Jerusalem. Can you picture them dancing and singing in the streets as they marched to the temple? The harps, lutes and trumpets played for the great time of rejoicing. What a perfect opportunity for the king to stand before his people and take credit for the victory. That did not happen. This leader followed God’s plan and gave God credit.
1. Why is humility in a leader so important?
Leaders Exhibit Total Obedience
In his prayer King Jehoshaphat told God he didn’t think this whole situation was fair, and that he didn’t know what to do. He and his people had their eyes fixed on God for the answer. The answer came – God said, ‘go out… tomorrow’. They went out early the next morning. God said they would not have to fight. They sang and watched God destroy the three armies. Jehoshaphat could have told his people to stay at home since God was going to fight the battle. However, because he was obedient, they were in the right place at the right time to see God work on their behalf. God wanted to do more than just save them from their enemies. He provided blessing upon blessing by allowing them to carry off so much plunder (equipment, clothing and articles of value) that it took them three days to collect it all. If they
Wherever you are called to lead, do it with humility and remember that honouring
the name of God is your goal
had not been obedient, they would not have seen God’s mighty hand and would not have received the plunder. However, the greatest benefit of their obedience was that God’s name was glorified. All the kingdoms of the surrounding countries feared God when they heard he fought against the enemies of Israel. As leaders, our first priority is to honour the name of God. Because we represent him to the unsaved people of the world, it is crucial that we uphold his name. When God’s plan does not seem rational, it would be very easy for us to want to ‘fix’ it and do things our own way. This causes us to miss the blessings he has for us and prevents the world from seeing his power displayed through us. Only total obedience honours God and brings peace.
1. Why was it necessary for the king and his people to go to the battle?
2. Why was it necessary to ‘go’ when God said ‘go’?
3. How might the outcome have changed if they had no been totally obedient?
Leaders Finish Well
While there are many lessons to be learned from King Jehoshaphat’s obedient behaviour, there is one to be learned from his disobedience. ‘Later, Jehoshaphat king of Judah made an alliance with Ahaziah king of Israel, who was guilty of wickedness. He agreed with him to construct a fleet of trading ships. After these were built at Ezion Geber, Eliezer son of Dodavahu of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat,
saying, “Because you have made an alliance with Ahaziah, the Lord will destroy what you have made.” The ships were wrecked and were not able to set sail to trade’ (v35-37). In this instance Jehoshaphat did not seek God’s direction. He made an alliance with a wicked king to build trading ships. Obviously, this move was motivated by money rather than honouring the name of God. This was a decision the king chose to make and the ships were destroyed. Leaders must seek God’s guidance in every situation. Choosing to make your own decisions can lead to ‘shipwreck’, causing God’s name to be defamed. These lessons from King Jehoshaphat’s life should cause us to reflect on our own leadership. As leaders we are to be followers of Christ. ‘Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ’ (Galatians 1:10). Wherever you are called to lead, do it with humility and remember that honouring the name of God is your goal. The world is looking to follow someone who will lead them to Christ. Will that be you?
1. What are some reasons a leader might choose not to seek God for direction?
2. What do you understand about the
character of God because he wrecked the king’s ships? 3. From what you have learned in this study, summarise what God wants from leaders.
Linda Himes Stewardship and Bible Ministries Consultant USA Central Territory
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my story
Leading and
Listening
Commissioner Marie Willermark, Territorial Commander for the Sweden and Latvia Territory, has a unique role as leader of two diverse nations. She shares about the challenges and joys of serving the Lord in these lands.
Commissioner Willermark enjoys the fruits from her garden
Can you give us a brief overview of The Salvation Army in Sweden and Latvia? Sweden is a country in northern Europe with nine million inhabitants. The Salvation Army has around 5,000 soldiers and adherent members and 140 active officers. We run centres for rehabilitation, families, youth and children. For several years we have worked on integrating corps fellowships and social ministry as well as looking at closing small corps with no local leadership, and opening new corps plants. Latvia is a small country of 2.1 million inhabitants on the other side of the Baltic Sea from Sweden which previously belonged to the then Soviet Union. There are 10 corps and three outposts and 15 active officers, eight second-year cadets and two first-year cadets. Corps fellowship and social ministry is very much intertwined. Here is the region’s English website: http://www.pestisanasarmija.lv/?lang=en What are the major areas of ministry in your role as territorial commander? My first ministry is to stay in a personal relationship with God in order to be
sensitive and obedient to his presence in my life, in other people and in the practical circumstances of Salvation Army mission. The outcome of that is to lead and listen to the leadership team – the cabinet – so we all contribute with our gifts and leadership responsibilities. Another important area is meeting leaders in our local corps and centres and considering their opportunities and challenges. My ministry is also to build relationships outside the Army, to understand what happens in our society and how God wants to use The Salvation Army to serve his purposes in this world. What are the areas of ministry you are most passionate about? Releasing the God-given potential in every believer, young or old. That we, through prayer and confidence in each other and in
‘My ministry is also to build relationships outside the Army, to understand what happens in our society’
God, understand opportunities for the Holy Spirit to lead us, and then ‘go for it’. I am challenged by and interested in meeting people where they are, not waiting for them to turn to us. I try to connect to people outside the church sphere through my blog (in Swedish). I also enjoy slowly building natural relationships with my neighbours. What is the relationship between Sweden and Latvia and how do you work together as one territory? Latvia has a regional commander and quite a large degree of independence. Sweden provides a major contribution to the Latvian budget and that sets a general framework. There is regular interaction with our cabinet, mainly between the chief secretary and regional leaders. The Latvian officers came to the Swedish congress last year and we encouraged people to visit Riga for the Latvian congress last summer. There is also interaction between Swedish and Latvian corps. Being a territorial commander of two countries means you probably travel extensively. How do you create Revive 15
my story ‘sanctuary’ in your life – protected time with God – amidst all the travel and the subsequent disruption it brings? I don’t apologise for setting aside time for days off, spending time at home and just slowing down. My fundamental attitude is that all of life belongs to God and I serve him in rest as well as in action. Practically, this means I use worship music to come before the Lord and just ‘know’ that he is Lord and good and worthy of all praise, confident that he holds me, the Army, and the world in his hands. I make time everyday for reading the Bible and other literature and then just live with a heart turned to God during the day. After winter, I enjoy spending time in my little garden. The process of sowing, planting, weeding, caring and enjoying the fruits of my work is simply wonderful and relaxing. You served for several years in Ukraine, part of the Eastern Europe Territory. What were some of the highlights of that experience? It is just life-changing to live with new people in a country that comes from a different historical context. It makes me refocus my perspective on issues like faith and culture, on managing difficulties and on what can be considered as reasonable expectations of life. The highlight I think is to have seen young people develop into mature Salvationists and leaders. And that is still ongoing. Other highlights of my travels are visiting corps, where I meet lovely people and hear their testimonies. I also enjoyed making friends with other Scandinavian people living in Kiev and singing in our Nordic choir. What are some of the greatest needs in Sweden and Latvia? As in the Western world in general, there is a growing power gap in society. The affluent get richer and more families and individuals end up in poverty and resigned to their circumstances. We also suffer from the effects of a secular society, a focus on image and the superficial that causes depression and makes people easy targets for costly lifestyle products. In Latvia, the greatest need is to relieve poverty. Politically, the country needs healing between Latvian-speaking and 16 Revive
Right: a new bilingual corps in Haparanda, on the border of Finland. Below: Akalla Centre, Stockholm. Here, women (only) can learn Swedish, get support and be part of and contribute to fellowship.
Russian-speaking people, and political stability. What are some of the most difficult challenges you face in ministry? Making decisions that will have an impact on the Army’s work for the next decades. Shall we invest in a new property for a corps or for a centre? Does this serve the purpose God has for the Army in the next 20 years, or is it the other option? What are some of the deepest joys in your ministry? Dedicating and praying individually for 40 teenagers who have completed their two-week confirmation camp and at the final ceremony declare that Jesus is Lord of their lives. Commissioning cadets as they give their lives to serve Jesus and make finding the lost their purpose in life. Praying and talking with people until they find peace with God and his will for their lives. What can our readers be praying about for The Salvation Army in Sweden and Latvia? Thank him for the candidates, cadets and
officers who give their lives to be available for God in the Army. Pray for local corps and centres, and that God’s Spirit will influence the unsaved to hunger for God’s word and desire to be born again. Pray for soldiers and volunteers to open their hearts and homes for building relationships with each other and newcomers. Pray that our young believers will influence their generation with a living, creative and relevant faith. If you could choose a handful of people from history to be your guests at a dinner party, who would they be? Catherine Booth, Stevie Wonder, John the Baptist, Jane Austen, Commissioner Clive Adams (TC Norway) and Mary Magdalene. This article first appeared in Women In Touch – June 2012 – published by Australia Eastern Territory
Marie Willermark Territorial Commander Sweden and Latvia Territory
spiritual life
EDITOR, Caribbean Territory
Columnist for 2012
U
nlike the corporate world, spiritual leadership embraces the Christ-like attitude as relevant and effective. This is the type of leadership that will bring the International Vision Plan One Army, One Mission, One Message into focus, changing the status quo and moving to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The Salvation Army’s most valuable asset is it’s people, and how we make them feel is vital to the health and future of the Army. Following are key components of spiritual leadership that empower and provide perspective:
Biblical Example
The spiritual leader takes her cue from the Bible, presenting it as paramount and relevant in her own life and witness. ‘Do as I say and not as I do’, is not effective in our day. People look beyond the profiling to see Jesus. The spiritual leader needs to take her prayer life, Bible reading and study, as well as her testimony into consideration, realising that if these are intact, her leadership will evoke a more positive response from the people she leads.
Love of God’s People
Today, many people are angry, disillusioned and disappointed with negative behaviours that bombard them on a daily basis. Hatred abounds in families, even in the Church and within our ranks. Many are hurting, but their cry often falls on deaf ears. Selfishness and greed are hallmarks of those who pursue their own agendas. The weak are marginalised. The spiritual leader along with her caring staff, calls her people to come away from the hustle and bustle, hatred, and the valley of self-pity. She calls them to gather around her as she shows the love of Christ, which empowers them to move forward.
Teaching God’s People
The spiritual leader teaches her people to walk in the paths of truth and righteousness. Many make mistakes simply because they lack information and are looking at things through imperfect human eyes. God empowers leaders to disseminate information that will help people in danger to look to the ‘Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’ (John 1:29). O teach me, Lord, that I may teach The precious things thou dost impart; And wing my words, that they may reach The hidden depths of many a heart (SASB 612 v 4)
Spiritual
Major Molvie Graham
Leadership ‘each of us has the ability to lift others up and can help to strengthen their faith’ Perpetuating Unity
In closing, let me repeat what I said in my first Spiritual Life column for 2012 – being linked by prayer unifies us. Through him, we can ‘meet around one common mercy seat’ (SASB 573 v 3). We see that each of us has the ability to lift others up and can help to strengthen their faith. Leading by example, loving and teaching biblically will bridge the gap between ethnicity, class and culture and will define unity, which is the hallmark of progress in the Army. As we do this people will look beyond the colour or style of our uniform, method of worship, or status and reach out for much-needed spiritual guidance. May we be inspired by the example our great leader Jesus Christ, as we seek to lead others to him. God bless you all! We thank Major Molvie Graham for her columns this year. The new columnist for 2013 will be Colonel Prerma Varughese Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries Zimbabwe Territory
Revive 17
the
prayerhouse
‘ T hey all j oined together constantly in prayer ’ ( A cts 1 : 1 4 ) Pauline Dean (back right) and members of the Leeds Central prayer group sharing prayer requests around the prayer table. The focus was reminding people to pray for the United Kingdom.
Leeds Central Corps For some time I knew God was leading me on other pathways because I had been gradually discovering the joys of creative prayer. It was at the Roots conference in Wales when God put the thought into my mind – ‘start a prayer group’. The Leeds Central Corps prayer group has now been meeting since 1995 at 10am every Sunday morning.
The prayer tree –
We started with a prayer tree (a simple branch in a pot) placed in the entrance hall, where people could write their prayer requests on a card and hang them on the tree, knowing that every week we would take them down and pray for the people and situations. Many people use our hall during the week, so we have lots of prayer requests come through to us. Some are given to us at ‘shopper’s church’ on the high street. It is amazing how people are open to prayer.
Coming before God We begin each week by coming into God’s presence in creative ways – using pictures, poetry, music, clay, silence, creative meditations, and lecto divino 18 Revive
‘There is so much to learn about prayer, it’s an exciting adventure’
Prayer Group (divine reading). We learn a lot from each other about using our senses and bodies as vehicles in prayer. We pray in small groups, by journaling – silently and out loud.
Praying for our corps
the Leeds Festival, and to have a stall at the Leeds Mind Body and Spirit Festival and the Kirkstall Festival. All these events are soaked in prayer.
God answers prayer
Ours was a white middle-class congregation in a city that was multi-cultural, so we prayed that God would send us people from other countries. Three weeks later the first African family came, then many more, and now we have a diverse and vibrant congregation.
And does God answer our prayers? Ask the mum who was told that her baby was going to be born with disabilities – she gave birth to a healthy little girl. Or the parents of a lost son, who, we praise God was found later that day.
Praying for our community
There is so much to learn about prayer, it’s an exciting adventure, with amazing results.
We wrote to local councillors, the police, businesses, schools, health centres and shops to let them know that we were praying for them. We asked for their prayer requests and had more replies than we had expected. It is a privilege to bring these all to God. We prayed for openings to bring God’s love to local situations – and they came. We were asked to serve the young people at
Prayer changes people, situations and corps, but most of all it changes us.
Pauline Dean Leeds Central Corps United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland
Captain Pamela Shiridzinodya
I
thank God for calling me to ministry and spiritual leadership. In my officership I have served in a number of different appointments including urban and rural corps, at the college for officer training and at territorial headquarters. Through these appointments I have come to understand that wherever I serve God I need to be a good leader. The Book of Daniel contains helpful information about leadership which is relevant for us today. Daniel 1:4-19 highlights leadership qualities that King Nebuchadnezzar was looking for from Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.
What are these qualities that God is looking for? Prayer warrior – Daniel and his friends were prayer warriors. He prayed three times a day and had a disciplined prayer life. Our prayers are usually interrupted, not by threats, as was the case with Daniel, but simply by the pressure of our work schedules. We should take our inspiration from Daniel and maintain habitual, private, sincere prayer no matter what the situation or circumstance, for prayer is our lifeline to God (Daniel 6:10). Aptitude for learning – these men were educated, well-informed, quick to understand and qualified to serve in the king’s palace (Daniel 1:4). God wants Christian leaders to be equipped and knowledgeable for his service. Wise – Daniel and his friends showed wisdom and consequently were able to achieve the desired results. We must be women of wisdom and use God’s given skill for us to achieve more for his Kingdom (Daniel 1:8-14).
Le
resources
ad e
equipped for leadership. We need to be open to learning so that we continue to acquire new skills and knowledge. Furthermore, be open to the teaching of the Holy Spirit through God’s Word so that we reach our full potential as spiritual leaders. Submissive – these men became team players, working and praying together. As spiritual leaders, are we supporters or team players in our ministry? We must be submissive to the authority of Jesus Christ.
rsh ip
Relational – our relationships with those we lead matter most. We must learn to be with our people in spite of position or authority. God says, ‘By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another’ (John 13:35). We must be women for the people, showing the love of Christ. Excellence – these were men of excellence. This is important in our leadership. We should be women who aim to give and do our best for the Lord. Daniel and his friends learned all they could about their new culture so they could do their work with excellence. While they learned from the Babylonians, they maintained steadfast allegiance to God, and God gave them skill and wisdom. We must be competent and we are required to pledge our allegiance to God first. Leadership is the ability to influence others for better – not to discourage them. Good leadership requires using these qualities so that those for whom we are responsible grow in their spiritual lives, and we bring glory and honour to God.
Servant heart – they served in the king’s palace. Our leadership is to be one of a servant heart. We are called to seek and serve the lost, not to be served (Daniel 6:20). Teachable – Daniel was trained for three years to serve the king. He was taught the Babylonian language and literature so that he would be well
Pamela Shiridzinodya Private Secretary to the Territorial Commander/Chief Secretary and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Zambia Territory
Revive 19
resources
John Staite
, a Salvation Army officer for more than 40 years, has held a variety of leadership appointments including national secretary of The Salvation Army in Australia and deputy chairman of the board of The Salvation Army Employment Plus. Leading Simply presents universal leadership truths in a concise, easy-to-read format. Listen to people. Plan ahead. Show flexibility. Be truthful. Set goals. Be persistent. Manage your workload. Protect your reputation. Have a positive attitude. Work hard. It’s maxims such as these – simple but wise – that fill the book and make it one that every leader should have within arm’s reach at all times. Following are excerpts from some of the chapters.
Leading A Commonsense Approach to Inspirational Leadership
Excellence Why should leaders aim for anything less than the best – for themselves and their team? The phrase ‘always strive for excellence’ is a significant challenge to anyone. For leaders to present such a cause to their team is verging on the ideal, but why shouldn’t it?
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The capacity to read a situation or a person and come to an accurate conclusion, discernment is an ability that should be in every leader’s toolbox.
Discernment
A
c u s
s e c
ul f s
e d lea
to look s d ahe ee n ad r
and formulate
n r e t l an a
It is inevitable that leaders will face pressure from time to time. Pressure goes with the task of leadership, and leaders must be prepared for the possibility of difficult situations cropping up at any time.
Pressure
resources
O
Simply Honesty Of all the qualities leaders possess, there is a case to consider that the most important is being honest in all their dealings
It is a fact of life that leaders have to rely on the competence of others‌ Leaders are called to place their trust in the team.
One of the qualities of great leadership is persistence. Those who lack this quality are likely to litter the landscape around them with failed opportunities and objectives.
bjectivity
It is imperative that leaders maintain their objectivity, no matter what pressure comes to distract them from the task.
Priorities
Leadership is a lot easier when abiding by priorities in all circumstances. Resist the temptation to compromise. One thing is certain: if leaders do not establish an order of priority, others will do it for them. Don’t allow minor matters to whittle away your precious time and rob you of initiative and purpose.
. n la p on i t ac r o y g e t a r st Competence
ve i t a n
100 per cent
Persistence
Reliability Servanthood
Servant leadership speaks of the capacity of leaders to do the things they expect others to do, even if this is a lowly task. Servant leadership may involve getting your hands dirty! Demonstrate servant leadership by what you do and not merely what you say.
The reliability of the team, either collectively or individually, is paramount if the leader is to accomplish objectives. How often has there been a breakdown simply because the reliability of an individual was found to be wanting? Be reliable yourself. Expect reliability from others.
Training One of the vital responsibilities of leaders is to ensure that adequate and appropriate training is given to members of their team. Be a good leader. Train, train and train again. Prepare for it and budget for it.
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Staying connected to the
TRUE VINE
Major Jane Musyoki
A
s God’s children, it is vital to fellowship with him through prayer. These times enable us to stay connected to him.
Prayer moments are precious to me; I have found myself growing stronger every time I discipline myself to earnest prayer and meditation. It takes commitment and dedication to set aside time for undisturbed meditation. GOD THE GARDENER God, our Heavenly Father, knows us intimately. He knows that we need his care and is ready to attend to us – if we let him. When we are full of unwanted things, he cleanses us so that we may have enough space for a better harvest. Lord, send the Holy Ghost fire and cleanse me. ‘He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful’ (John 15:2). Pruning can be painful, but the truth is that we need it more than we imagine. It is for our own good. Lord God, I know the process of pruning might be painful, but I am willing to be 22 Revive
Lord Jesus, you are the source of my fruitfulness; my service will be worthless without you. Remain in me and make me useful in this ministry, for your glory. BRANCHES ‘If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers…’ (v6). Branches are part of the vine, but they cannot survive without being connected to the vine, which is the sole provider of nourishment for its branches. We are vulnerable if we strive to bear fruit on our own.
pruned by you. Remove everything in me that is not pleasing to you. Lord, shape me into the best vessel fit for your Kingdom. JESUS THE TRUE VINE ‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing’ (v5).
‘Branches are part of the vine, but they cannot survive without being connected to the vine’ Unless the branches are connected to the vine from which they feed and grow, they will not become healthy enough to bear much fruit, nothing will be found on them. Our fruitfulness is found in Jesus, we need to be deeply rooted in the Word of God to be fruitful. If we take root inwardly, we will bear fruit outwardly. People will see the fruit of the Spirit in us and praise God.
Jesus I give myself to you. I choose to remain in you, feed on your Word and do your will. Help me to hold on to your promises. ‘You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit – fruit that will last – and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you’ (v16). Fruit is the final product of growth. Fruit comes after all the work has been done – the watering, top dressing and pruning. God chose us for a purpose! We are known to him and the fruit we will bear will be for his glory if we remain in him. It will not be seasonal but will last for eternity. Our Army needs prayerful leaders. If we remain in him, we will receive from him and then we will produce for him. As the songwriter reminds us: ‘For out of his infinite riches in Jesus, he giveth, and giveth, and giveth again’ (SASB 579 v 3).
Jane Musyoki TERRITORIAL EDITOR Kenya East Territory
comingresource
The Walk Worthy Bible studies are available for free from your territorial president of women’s ministries. Order through your divisional director for women’s ministries.
A leader is a dealer in hope. Napoleon Bonaparte
What women bring to leadership are talents such as emotional sensitivity, empathy, a penchant for long-term planning, a gift for networking, a desire to reach consensus, and a collaborative leadership style.
There is no improving the future without first disturbing the present. Catherine Booth
To give spiritual leadership in the 21st century, we need to be people with spiritual depth and credibility. General Linda Bond
Helen Fisher and Judy Rosener
How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. Anne Frank
Empowering leaders make decisions with people, not just for people. Kris Vallotton
subcriptions
Revive 23
Proverbs 14:28
The mark of a good leader is loyal followers; leadership is nothing without a following (The Message)