Equipping Leaders To Multiply

Conversations that Nurture the Soul of Leaders

Compelled by the grace of God spiritual leaders serve selflessly, love extravagantly and give sacrificially.  But frequently it’s their untiring efforts for the cause of Christ that bring exhaustion physically, emotionally and spiritually.  Isn’t it ironic that serving the God we love can cause us to feel distant from the God we love to serve?  That’s why it’s essential that the leaders greatest priority is the care of his or her own soul.

There have been plenty of times my spiritual tank has been so low I can’t seem to get myself back into a healthy place with God.   It’s in these times I need someone else’s perspective, wisdom and faith to boost my own.  That’s why I value Soul Care Conversations as a vital part of my spiritual regimen.  These discussions with trusted spiritual friends nourish my soul and keep my perspective in alignment with God’s perspective.

Even the most mature leaders need these types of conversations.   King Hezekiah was the most spiritually mature king Israel had known in years, yet when the King of Assyria threatened to destroy Israel, he found himself under a tremendous amount of stress.  As his soul began to weaken under the weight of the situation he sent word to Isaiah informing him of the situation.  Hezekiah’s words reflect his concern, as he put on sackcloth and ashes he said, “This day is a day of distress and rebuke and disgrace, as when children come to the point of birth and there is no strength to deliver them.” (Isaiah 37:3)   

Sensing his weariness Isaiah spoke God’s truth to Hezekiah saying, “ This is what the LORD says: Do not be disturbed by this blasphemous speech against me from the Assyrian king’s messengers. Listen! I am going to put a spirit in him so that when he hears a certain report, he will return to his own country, and there I will have him cut down with the sword.” (Isaiah 37:5-7).   Isaiah’s words in this soul care conversation helped Hezekiah see the situation from God’s perspective and  infused him with the hope, faith and courage he needed to move forward.

If you’re finding that your soul is weary maybe it’s time for some soul care conversations.  Here are a few questions that might help stimulate the discussion.

  • What’s the freshest thing God has been doing in your life lately?
  • How full is your emotional, physical and spiritual tanks?   Empty, quarter filled, half, three quarters or full.
  • What theme does God seem to be emphasizing in this season of your life?
  • If you could see God do one thing over the next 30 days what would it be?
  • What’s God been saying to you through His Word recently?
  • What passion is God stirring in your soul recently?
  • What season best describes your spiritual life right now: Winter, spring summer or fall?  Why?
  • What’s exciting you the most in your spiritual journey these days?
  • What are you most excited about what God is doing in, through or around you?

This Weeks Leadership Challenge: Seek out a trusted spiritual friend and have a honest open soul care conversation.