In the American church we have a determined focus on desires for wrongful sex, but James—the writer of the book by that name in the New Testament—has a distinctively different focus: broken relationships. He zeros in on fights of which there are many between a toxic leader and his/her subordinates.
James and Oppression 2: The Center of Toxic Leadership
In this second look at the book of James, we will consider the center of toxic leadership. As was noted in part one of this series, much teaching in leadership circles looks at the outward behavior of the leader as the standard. But that isn't the standard for Christians.
James and Oppression 1: Murderous Words
The book of James has profound insights on oppressive leadership, hypocrisy, and the power of words in Christian contexts. This is the first in a series on James and oppression.
The Heart of Leadership: Seeing Subordinates as Souls
What would leadership look like if the leader viewed his or her subordinates as living souls? What does that even mean?
The Beauty of Christmas: Unto Us a Child is Born
There is something particularly comforting about a belief that God would in humility come as a baby into the world He has created and rules. Merry Christmas from my home to yours.
On Forgiving Because You Have Been Forgiven: There are Qualifications However
According to much of Scripture on forgiveness, the one who needs forgiveness, needs to ask for forgiveness in order to receive it. But there is another kind of forgiveness.
Jealousy and Leadership: A Toxic Mix
For the leader who considers his authority questioned whenever another human being in his orbit receives accolades for his or her skills, the temptation to not only covet but attempt control over that gifted one is a problem.
Thankful 2025
Since 2017, I’ve shared insights on toxic leadership, inspired by personal experiences and supportive theologians. I’m grateful for my family’s journey and hope this blog has contributed to healing for those affected. Thank you for reading.
The Gold Standard: When Unacceptable is Better than Those Others
In the domestic violence world it is common to hear, "Well at least he doesn't hit her." We see the same dynamic in the organization when fellow leaders, boards, or even co-workers suggest that the boss isn't as bad as the last guy.
A Servant vs. a Do[e]g: Complicity with Toxic Leaders
How do organizations develop systemically abusive leadership?Whether in Nazi Germany or a church in a small town, followers can have a huge impact.