One of
the most valuable is words.
Words of course are important; yet, they
go beyond a basic form of communication. There must be a form, a
phrasing of thoughts into concise and understandable purposes.
I
have always been told I am a good listener and I have found that to
be true. I value the words of others; I want to learn and understand
their need, desire, or point of view.
Words are powerful. Think
about what words do:
tell the truth!
spread the gospel!
defend a
position or person!
Words are studied, read, written, heard, shared,
and dreamed.
So
how do I understand words and their relation to my ministry?
As
I look over the leadership competencies here are the connections I
see.
Communicator…active
listening and presentation of information.
Open
ears to what others say.
Open
heart and mind to possibilities.
Open
words to invite the conversation.
Compassionate…advocate
for others because one cares.
Listening
to others words in order to understand.
Reaching
out to help.
Soft
words of pastoral care.
Hopeful…direction,
guidance, and faith.
Uplifting
words.
Helpful
words.
Preaching
& Worship leadership…communicate a clear message.
Inspired
words in a sermon.
Prayerful
words in worship.
Spiritual
Maturity…faithfulness of purpose.
Words
of wisdom and experience.
Quiet
words between self and God.
Contextualization…understanding
uniqueness.
Kind
words.
Decision
Making…analysis, judgement, and choices.
Suggestions
and solutions.
Balanced
words.
Strategy
and Vision…future possibilities.
Imaginative
and creative words.
Motivator…enables
others.
Being
a resource.
Supportive
words.
Self-differentiation…personal
boundaries.
Professional
space.
Gracious
words.