Concering stressful schedules

I agree with you, Manric. We have a crisis of "product." May I add a thought (or maybe more than one thought)? Our problem is not so much our "product," but our "generic" product. I mean, we are aiming to produce generalists in our leadership core. We want supermen who can do all things (not necessarily through Christ). We want leaders who have all the qualities and competencies of an "ideal" leader. (Talk about "traits" overdose!) Consequently, we ask our leaders to do so much. Instead of focusing, they start decomposing. They are spread out like peanut butter, and it's really a mess, Manric. Why? Because of vague definitions of what it means to be a leader (like"one who influences," sorry Max). The truth is, being a leader is more than just influencing. Our model of leadership must be holistic (you're right again, Manric). I believe there are three things a true Christian leader must focus on:

1. Pursue vital relationships (with God, with family, with friends, etc.)
2. Proclaim the word (starts with evangelism but continues on in various contexts)
3. Produce leaders and shepherd your flock through them

There are degrees to this leadership model, depending on what level of leadership you are in. There are at least five levels of leadership:

• Level One: A Mobilizer (one who mobilizes others, duh)
• Level Two: A Facilitator (one who leads a small group of people)
• Level Three: A Manager (one who manages a unit or group of small groups)
• Level Four: A Director (one who gives direction to an organization)
• Level Five: A Catalyst (one who provides momentum to a movement)

Each level would require a different expression of the threefold model that I mentioned earlier. But all true leaders must focus on only three, not three thousand! If you find yourself neglecting any of the three, it's time to reassess and change. If you can't, just quit and go find another ministry situation where you can. I rest my case.