When a team of leaders/workers are
embroiled in conflict it may be the result of poor leadership. Healthy teams will disagree at times and
debate issues. However, the debate should
not be combative or adversarial. Rather it
should be a healthy exchange of ideas shared in an atmosphere of mutual
respect. We are often tempted to make
disagreement on an issue personal and attack the disagreeing person rather than
tackling the issue to discover the best way forward. It is an imperfect world so conflict cannot
be avoided entirely, but wise leadership will mitigate an atmosphere of
conflict and create unity accompanied by mutual respect.
I believe a healthy, happy, and
united team is largely the product of the example of the primary leader, a
shared vision, and good communication.
Dismissal or resignation from a team becomes necessary for the good of
the cause when one lacks respect for the primary leader, won’t support the
vision, or refuses to communicate and cooperate.
A good leader will model a
respectful attitude toward others in general and their team in particular. They are humble, willing to listen, and
willing to change when they are wrong.
They correct in private and compliment publicly. They have “the back” of their team members. They also exemplify a steady spirit that allows
team members to function without anxiety.
They welcome and create opportunities for laughter and wholesome bonding
in team relationships. On the other hand
an angry or erratic leader will foster conflict and thwart progress. Furthermore, a spiritual leader must lead the
way in their relationship with God and impart confidence in the team they are
seeking God’s direction in all they do.
Effective leaders have a clear vision
accompanied with values that when accepted by a team fosters unity in
direction. For example, when an Associate
Pastor begins to chafe under a Lead Pastor’s vision that is an indication the
Holy Spirit is nudging him/her into another role where they can fully express
their vision. Paul and Barnabas parted
ways to do what each thought should be done when they could not agree on
whether or not to take John Mark on their second missionary journey. That is far better than trying to sustain a
diverging working relationship.
Wise leaders keep communication
open. Conflict on a team often is the
result of surprises or lack of communication.
Planning ahead, anticipating questions, preparing people for the future,
and having periodic meetings with key people, will help keep the organizational
machinery well-oiled and everyone on the same page. An important ingredient in a healthy,
effective ministry is united leadership.
Where unity in the work of God prevails God commands His blessing (Psalms
133:1-3).
