There are many individuals in the Bible that were chosen by God for specific callings–to speak, to conquer, to be an example, to perform miracles, and to lead. They weren’t all ready or seemingly “fit” for the calling, but there’s a lesson that can be gleaned from each life to get an understanding on how God treated his ‘team members’ who struggled and how to do the same when being trusted to lead others who are struggling as well. Here are 3 ways people’s lives were profoundly impacted by God’s leadership when they were struggling. Consider what that could look like at work today.
- Give them a Vision.
Gideon was, in his own words, from the weakest clan in his country and he considered himself the weakest within his own family. As we can see, Gideon didn’t have much self awareness of his abilities, strengths and value. Nevertheless, no matter the lack of awareness for his potential, God gave him an inspiring vision for himself by calling him a “Mighty Warrior.” God saw his potential, and made sure Gideon saw it for himself.
Yes, leaders want the people they lead to be killing it in their role, but there may be that one or two that need leadership support. You just may be in someone’s life at work to help propel them to their potential.
Give team members (struggling or not) a vision for their role or for a future role that you can help groom them for. Don’t miss the opportunity to change someone’s life in the workplace, as the workplace is not just about the work.
When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.” Judges 6:12
Bible reference: Judges 6
- Give them Grace
Before Jesus was arrested to be murdered, he gives Peter the heads up that he will fall short by rejecting Jesus 3 times. Peter couldn’t fathom that to be true.
But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. Matthew 26:35
But in Matthew 26:72, lo and behold, to save his neck, he rejected Jesus 3 times.
He denied it again, with an oath: “I don’t know the man!” Matthew 26:72
If we look at Matthew 16:19, Jesus is speaking to Peter as though he had never messed up–as though he hadn’t done anything to offend him. An amazing lesson right here when a team member gives you all the reason to not invest in them. There’s absolutely room for discipline and training but also, overlooking the offense (Proverbs 19:11). It encourages them to avoid a defeated mindset, but rather keep going and strive for better. Jesus not only gave Peter another shot, he gave him a leadership role on a huge project that would change lives for centuries and beyond.
And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:19
- Give them a Challenge.
A natural inclination when interacting with someone who isn’t excelling is to expect less from them. That will backfire. When you expect less, you will likely get less. God motivates people by doing the opposite–he expects more. He expects greatness and his challenges match that sentiment.
Moses tried to intercede in a conflict that an Egyptian boss was having with his worker and it didn’t turn out too well. [Exodus 2:11-12] Moses tried to intercede in a conflict between two Jews which also ended unfavorably. [Exodus 2:13-15]
Moses didn’t fit in with the Egyptians, because although he was raised as one, he was actually Jewish so he never adopted the Egyptian identity. He didn’t fit in with the Jews because it was known that he wasn’t raised in a Jewish household. By human standards, he wasn’t the most fit for a major assignment which involved influencing high ranking Egyptian leaders. Yet, God gave him that very charge.
Moses was assigned to persuade one of the highest ranking leaders of the country. God put him in a position that would stretch him and show him what he’s made of (and of course Who was backing him). Expect greatness from team members and challenge them to strive for it. They just may reach that level.
And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, and I have seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them. So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” Exodus 3:9
If you’re in a leadership role, test out these biblical leadership approaches, and see how it makes a difference in your team member’s work life. And if you’re not, what do you think about these methods?