In the hustle and bustle of daily operations, it’s easy for leaders, including myself, to become so immersed in the “doing” that we forget to focus on the “leading.” When I started Anchor Point, I wore many hats, from cleaning toilets to handling marketing. While these tasks were necessary, I learned the hard way that if I continued working solely in the business, I would hinder its growth. As Proverbs 29:18 reminds us, “Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.”
Early in my journey, a wise mentor challenged me with a poignant question: “If you weren’t here, would your ministry survive?” This question prompted me to reflect on my role and the dependency my team had on me. It’s a reality that many leaders face, yet we must strive to empower others. Ephesians 4:12 tells us that the church is called to equip the saints for the work of ministry, and that principle applies to any non-profit or business.
I recall learning from Chuck Colson at Prison Fellowship, observing how he transitioned from CEO to board chair. He effectively raised up others to take charge of daily operations, allowing him to focus on strategic vision and writing. This model inspired me to cultivate a similar approach within my team. My goal is to work my way out of my position by empowering my staff and building strong teams, echoing the message of Matthew 20:26-28, where Jesus taught that true leadership is about serving others.
To facilitate this growth, I realized the importance of stepping away from the noise of daily tasks. Spending dedicated time in prayer and reflection is crucial for receiving God’s guidance (James 1:5). Just as I recently found clarity in seeking His wisdom, I encourage fellow leaders to carve out time for reflection. When we approach our leadership with intention and a spirit of empowerment, we create an environment where both the organization and its people can thrive.