One of the surest ways to kill an organization is to be driven by image. One of the surest ways to identify a toxic leader is to find one driven by image.
Narcissism
Toxic Spillage: The Side-Effects of Following a Toxic Leader
If you work for a Christian organization (or other) that is ruled by a toxic leader, be aware. It will spill out and over you.
Nebuchadnezzar and [un]Humble Leadership
Humble leadership is the best. This kind of leadership is exactly what we find taught in Scripture.
All Things for Good: Beauty from Ashes
It is not uncommon to hear people speak of the good that has come from a leader even though he or she is toxic. Let's not draw those lines.
Tongues Are Sharp As Swords: Verbal Abuse in the Bible
Those who suggest emotional or verbal abuse is not really abuse need to consider scripture and psychology.
Counterfeit Gods: The Power and the Glory
Timothy Keller writes insightfully, "To be your own god and live for your own glory and power leads to the most bestial and cruel kind of behavior. Pride makes you a predator, not a person."
Headship: Demand it of Yourself
In the experience of abusive leadership in the home, workplace, and government, it is not uncommon to hear demands of submission as if the leader has absolute and ultimate authority. Biblically, it is not true. Don't be fooled by the blustering.
Though They Rage…God is Our Refuge
Wading into the depths of Psalms 44 & 46can be both the healing balm and helpful aid to building boundaries that protect our integrity from those who war against a Biblical understanding of abuse.
Humility, Like Oil On the Head
We are all dependent. We long for respect and love and relationship. But leaders need to depend on God, not our subordinates.
Wild Grapes: God’s Judgment on Power & Oppression
People were created to love God and neighbor. They were created to care for and keep the world [Genesis 2:15]. To create flourishing. They were not created to sow power and reap abuse.