Leading towards renewal – Reflections on 2023 Pt 2
Nov 29, 2023
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The hosts introduce a new concept and discuss leadership, followership, and renewal. They discuss the host's eye movement during the podcast recording. The importance of personal renewal in leading to corporate change is explored, along with the challenges faced. The dimensions of fellowship and followership are discussed, emphasizing the importance of being a pillar in a community. Personal experiences with intense crowds are shared, highlighting the influence of social media. The challenging journey of rebuilding is discussed, encouraging listeners to find hope and strength in God.
Renewal is about humbling oneself before God and investing in the larger work of renewal in the world, rather than chasing personal power or influence.
Resistance, conflict, and spiritual pushback are common during periods of renewal, and leaders must persevere through these challenges with humility and discernment.
Deep dives
The Importance of Humility and Investing in Renewal
In the podcast episode, it is emphasized that renewal is not just about personal success or gaining a platform. It is about humbling oneself before God and investing in the larger work of renewal in the world. The focus is on being a pillar rather than chasing personal power or influence. Pillars are individuals who find their strength and purpose in God, and their leadership is marked by humility, character, and serving others. This perspective challenges the cultural emphasis on self-promotion and individual success.
Understanding the Dynamics of Conflict and Backlash
The podcast explores the dynamics of conflict and backlash that often occur during periods of renewal. It highlights that resistance, misunderstanding, and conflict are common and even spiritual pushback can occur when God is bringing renewal. It also discusses how changes in power dynamics and hierarchies can lead to conflicts within institutions and communities. The podcast emphasizes the importance of persevering through these challenges and not being discouraged by the opposition or being tempted to leverage the renewal for personal gain. It encourages leaders to discern God's work and to respond with humility and perseverance.
The Importance of Building a Culture of Prayer
The podcast underscores the significance of prayer in leading toward renewal. Prayer is described as a humbling act of seeking God's power and strength, and creating a culture of prayer within a church or organization is seen as crucial. Prayer allows for a dependence on God rather than personal strength or influence. It brings a sense of submission and aligns leaders and followers with God's purposes. The podcast highlights the transformative impact of prayer and the need to make it a central part of the renewal process.
Making Renewal About Jesus
The podcast emphasizes that leading toward renewal should be centered on Jesus. It cautions against the temptation to make it about personal success or achieving a platform. Instead, it encourages individuals to focus on Jesus and His kingdom, realizing that true renewal comes from Him. By making renewal about Jesus, leaders and followers can align themselves with His purpose and build a culture of humility, service, and dependence on Him. The podcast reminds listeners to keep Jesus at the forefront and to prioritize His agenda in their pursuit of renewal.