“The exercise of authority is designed to serve the well-being of those under its care,” says Timothy Witmer. That seems basic to the Christian, and yet how many bosses view their leadership this way?
Serving Under Toxic Leaders
Aaron’s Story: Pastor as Predator
I could tell in our discussion that Aaron was the dream employee. After two years of serving in the church, Aaron came home to his wife and shared with her, “I think Pastor Gene has a man-crush on me.”
Imaging Leadership: When Image is More Important Than Anything
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.
Touch Not the Lord’s Anointed: Respect and Accountability
Is a church leader, by nature of the office he holds, the "Lord's anointed" as David calls King Saul in 2 Samuel 1:14?
Consider It Joy [In Time]! Weeping With Those Who Weep
"Consider it joy! It will make you stronger." Yes, the Bible tells me so. But it so often seems so callous for someone to remind me of it. Rather, Weep.
Strange Fire: Holding Leaders Accountable
Bad leaders are held to account by the Lord and His people are called to hold them accountable for their failures where they have that ability.
Giving Leaders a Free Pass: The Story of Praise
Having spent nearly a decade working for a mission college in Africa, I have a keen interest in African leadership. When I spoke with Praise (not his real name), he shared his own experience with leadership abuse in the African nation in which he grew up.
All That Glitters Is Not Gold: Emily’s Story
Emily joined the African mission work because it "sounded good. It was the way we should be helping." But all that glitters is not gold...
Integrity Under Fire: Kani’s Story
The leader of the international organization for which Kani worked fired him after he confronted corrupt ministry practices.
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.