Leading Yourself Well

Introduction

This episode was recorded LIVE on the new Church Leadership Podcast Liveshow, a part of Watermark TV. To watch live, submit a question, see the show notes, and be a part of the conversation, go to www.watermarkresources.com/clplive

Show Notes

Self-leadership is one of the most important topics to discuss during a time of crisis. If leaders are unable to lead themselves well, there is no chance they will lead others well. That is why leaders need to pay attention to how they are doing emotionally, spiritually, physically, and relationally. You cannot ignore these different buckets, and remaining a healthy leader demands regularly filling them up.

Emotional

Any time of crisis is going to be an emotional time, and rightly so. For many of us, grief, anxiety, and worry command more of our thoughts than usual. And while some of us may not particularly feel like grieving, this is in fact a natural part of our reaction in times like these. We feel grief any time our expectations are not met (Proverbs 13:12). We need to healthily grieve the loss of our routines, jobs, and prior way of life. Things are not going to be the same. But ultimately, that is okay. Some changes are going to be difficult and painful. But some changes are very much needed. Christians should not be surprised when they feel this way. Grief is part of the healing process.

If you have having trouble putting words to your emotions, try looking at a feelings wheel. Daily accessing how you are feeling is key to remaining emotionally healthy in times of crisis. Throughout this time, remember Philippians 4:6-7 and 1 Peter 5:7. Jesus is willing and able to carry your worry and anxiety.

One of the best things you can do to help with your emotional health, and an incredibly practical change, is to simply limit your media intake. If you notice your anxiety rise as you seek out information regarding a crisis, simply distance yourself from those sources. You can be informed about an issue without needing to be obsessed or constantly updating yourself.

Spiritual

Hebrews 9:27 reminds us that no matter what, we are all going to die one day. This can either terrify us, or point us to our humanity and need for a Savior. We are not going to know how many days the Lord has for us, but can be confident that he is working all things for our ultimate good.

Times of crisis often reveal where we are actually putting our trust. When we get squeezed, we see what we are made of. If, when under pressure, you are responding with fear and chaos, then this crisis may be a gift and a reminder to run back to the Lord. In any moment this all could go away, so do not forget to spend intentional time abiding with God in prayer and Bible intake.

If you are having anxious thoughts or living in fear, even as a church leader, simply confess them. Understand that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ (Romans 8:1).

Physical

We cannot ignore the positive effects of regularly getting Vitamin D outside, exercising well, eating healthily, and sleeping a normal amount. We also must avoid binging on unhealthy foods, alcohol, TV, and social media. Doing these things is crucial to our physical health and changes we make will spill over into our emotional health as well.

If addiction to pornography or alcohol are a struggle for you, this is the best time to take preemptive action and protection. Confess at the thought level before you even get close to acting on these temptations.

Accountability and community is incredibly helpful in remaining physically healthy. Consider using an app like HabitShare for tracking your habits and looping other people in on how you are doing.

Relational

Find people you can laugh with and be encouraged by. A joyful heart is good medicine (Pro 17:22), and inserting pockets of laughter and humor into your day is a great way to remain positive in times of crisis. If you are interested in another way to stay relationally connected and laugh with family or friends, tune into Watermark Live, Monday-Thursday at 7:00PM (Central).

Matthew 5 is also very relevant when stuck in homes with family and roommates. Now is the time to keep short accounts. If you have unresolved conflict with someone, confess and ask for their forgiveness. We should be united in the midst of crisis and not at one another's throats. As a church leader, our number one ministry is the one at home.

Times of crisis and quarantine can be the best time for families and roommates if they are intentional to relationally invest in one another.

Recommended Resources

• Spiritual Disciplies for the Christian Life