Folks, let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention in Christian leadership: vulnerability. For years, I thought being a leader meant having all the answers, never showing weakness. Boy, was I wrong.
True leadership, especially Christian leadership, requires vulnerability. It’s about being real, admitting when you don’t have it all figured out, and letting others see your struggles.
I remember when I first started sharing about my journey with Standing Stone. It wasn’t easy to talk about my failures in business or my struggles in ministry. But you know what? That vulnerability opened doors. It allowed others to relate, to see that they weren’t alone in their struggles.
Vulnerability builds trust. When leaders are open about their challenges, it creates a safe space for others to do the same. It’s like what happened with the pastoral couples at our retreats. Once we shared our story, they felt free to open up about their own struggles.
But let me be clear: vulnerability doesn’t mean oversharing or lacking boundaries. It’s about being authentic and transparent in appropriate ways.
Vulnerability also models growth. When we admit our mistakes and share how we’re learning from them, we encourage others to embrace their own growth journeys.
Remember, Jesus himself was vulnerable. He wept, He expressed His struggles in the Garden of Gethsemane. If the Son of God can be vulnerable, so can we.
So, to all the leaders out there: don’t be afraid to let your guard down. Share your struggles, admit when you don’t have all the answers, be real about your journey. Your vulnerability might just be the key to unlocking authentic community and transformative leadership.
Remember, strength isn’t about having it all together. True strength is found in admitting when we don’t, and pointing to the One who does.