Monday, 24 September 2012

• Leaders Need Help Too: How to Receive Help when Needed

  By Roderick Evans
  
  In our previous post, we discussed reasons why leaders don’t get the help they need. Now, we will focus on what leaders must do to receive help when they need it. We have established that pride, embarrassment, hopelessness and security, and family are the major reasons among many why pastors and leaders continue to minister and counsel without receiving ministry. However, the question remains,

   “How can leaders find counsel and support for the issues in their lives?”

  There are certain keys that pastors and leaders must use in order to unlock the door to freedom from issues.

  1. Humility. Leaders have to be willing to admit there is a problem. The scriptures say that confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:10). Before Christ is received, sin and guilt before God has to be acknowledged. It is then that one can receive Him. Likewise, leaders have to humble themselves and admit the truth about themselves and their situations. It is unprofitable to rationalize sin and weakness. Humility demands honesty within and to God. God will supply grace to those who are humble. (James 4:6)

  2. Overcome Fear. Humility is the beginning. However, admittance without action is useless. Once confession is made, the next step is to overcome fear. Four out of the five reasons for pastors and leaders not receiving help are the offspring of fear. Whatever fears may be present, leaders must take control. Fears have to be presented at the foot of the cross. Pastors and leaders have to remember that God has not given us the spirit of fear. Fear has to be dispelled. (2 Timothy 1:7)

  3. Ask.  The Bible says that you have not, because you do not ask (James 4:2b). After humbling themselves and overcoming fears, leaders have to ask for help. Though leaders may have to be selective, it should not deter them from seeking guidance. There are ministries (online and otherwise) designed to aid pastors and leaders. If pastors feel they cannot receive the best help possible from within, then they have to seek help from outside sources. A little research is needed depending on the need, but help is available. Again, leaders must be willing to admit their problems and ask for help.

  4. Listen/Follow Through. Pastors and leaders understand that information without application is useless. Once counsel is received, leaders have to follow the directives given to them (James 1:22). Leaders have to resist a “know it all” mentality. Pastors and leaders are accustomed to dispensing advice, but they have to know how to take it. Proverbs tells us that wise men hear. Leaders who truly want help will listen and take action.

  5. Accountability. After receiving counsel, pastors and leaders should submit to some form of accountability. It is imperative to have individuals that they can confide in. In addition, leaders can benefit from persons who challenge them in their walk with God and their ministries. Accountability is a necessary precaution, so that they can maintain a life of purity and integrity.

  If the above steps are applied, leaders will find their journey to recovery filled with success. Until next time.

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