Pathway of Purpose

Chaplaincy has a unique role within the wider realm of ministry. It is unique because the chaplain is constantly navigating being pastoral, while also functioning as a member of the organization to which he or she belongs. For myself, as an Army Chaplain, I do the work of ministry, but I also must be a professional soldier. For instance, I am required to maintain a certain level of fitness, and I fall within a rank structure, among other “soldiery” things. It is like becoming a missionary; a chaplain must learn his organization’s culture so he can minister effectively within it.  This transition can be jarring, and the continual balance of ministering within a non-church organization can be especially challenging for some. Unlike church ministry, much of chaplaincy is outside of the chaplain’s control.  Grow Where You Are Planted There is a common proverb found in chaplaincy circles that speaks to this predicament. The proverb advises, “Grow where you are planted.” This was th...

John Maxwell, author, entrepreneur, and leadership expert, once said, "A leader knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way."   I remember someone asking me, "Are you born with leadership, or is leadership learned?" My answer was both. Having said, "both" the question still keeps coming back to me time and time again. Over the years, I have read and taught a lot about leadership from some of the best. There is a side of me that naturally steps into a leadership role because I am wired in this way.   In this post, I want to share with you ten surprising but not so surprising facts on leadership that I have learned over the years.   Fact 1: Leaders have the desire to grow. Leaders are people who are consistently are looking for ways to grow. Either in their specific field of interest or not so familiar areas. Leaders are willing to expand their knowledge capacity.   Fact 2: Leaders take the time to read. Not everyone is a reader, but leaders push themselv...