There are those leaders who are simply bad. They are toxic to their core and they reap destruction in the workplace. But, there are leaders who begin well and end badly.
Self-Differentiation and the Use of Gifts
Self-differentiation is rooted in biblical and psychological concepts. We need go no further than to focus on the examples of Jesus and King David to illustrate dependence and trust in God as necessary to use our gifting.
The Responsibility of Leaders: Stopping Oppressive Workplaces
King Solomon was maybe the wisest king of all time, How did it all end and what does it teach leaders today?
Saul’s False Apology: Seeking Repentance from an Abuser
What do you do with an apology from an abusive leader? Real apologies are rare due to inner evil. But we are not omniscient so give it time.
Too Close: Lessons from Jonathan on Blindness in Abuse
Standing by abuse victims is vital for all. Jonathan's experience with his father, Saul demonstrates the difficulty of identifying toxic leadership in those with whom we are close.
Fret Not for Vindication: Be Still and Wait Patiently
The struggle for validation and vindication in the face of abusive leadership is echoed in Psalms, encouraging patience and trust in God's righteous judgment. The remedy lies in turning to God's Word—Jesus—for healing and endurance.
What if a Leader were to Boast in Weaknesses?
A leader boasting in weaknesses can demonstrate humility and reliance on Christ's strength, distinguishing good leadership from toxic leadership. Without humility there is just no way.
38 Years: Knit Together for a Purpose
I am thankful that the LORD knit my wife and I together for a purpose. My best friend for 38 years is my partner in seeking justice, faithfulness, and mercy for victims of toxic leadership.
Job’s Counselors: The Misuse of Spiritual Influence
The book of Job highlights misguided counseling of abuse victims rooted in black-and-white beliefs, instead of comprehensive biblical theology. Remember,buse victims are never at fault for the abuse they experience.
Zechariah and Toxic Christian Leadership
Our distrust of God is what drives our trust in ourselves. We, in practice, believe that we can make better decisions, control situations better, and get the job done better than the LORD, even if we would never admit that. So too the Israelite leaders—priests and kings and counselors—thought they knew better than the LORD when Zechariah spoke around 500 B.C.