The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Understanding Vulnerability in Leadership

We, as humans, are capable of inflicting hurt or harm on another. Thus, in leadership, it is important to understand that vulnerability exists in our natural world (world leadership). Merriam-Webster dictionary defines vulnerability as capable of being easily hurt or harmed physically, mentally, or emotionally. Our acceptance of this responsibility is meant to improve personal leadership skills. Unfortunately, too many congregants’ view vulnerability as weakness.

Conversely, some of the most influential people, in the business, believe that vulnerability enhances their relationships with others as a leader. Businesses encourage leaders to distinguish themselves from others. In fact, leadership is to highlight these as distinguishing traits for building relationships. For example, recent studies show that vulnerability in leadership creates (1) psychological safety, (2) increases employee engagement, and (3) accelerates innovation (Brené Brown). Predominately, these studies relate mostly to organizational leadership style, i.e., authentic leadership and less about ministerial leadership. Authentic leadership, by definition, is a leadership style that is primarily about trustful relationships between employees and the leader. Together, the employee and leader work as a team to accomplish goals. Vulnerability is meant to strengthen the relationship.

Thus, how can ministers of Christianity, bridge vulnerability in leadership with a purpose of growing spiritually for the Kingdom of God?

Building Trust Through Vulnerability

First, experiences of congregants vary. Once, in the beginning of my Christian walk, a well-respected Pastor, gave me pause to mistrust church leadership, especially pastors. His words in regard to his personal misconduct were, “I do not go into my own hen house to scout the chickens but, I will scout out chickens to catch in other hen houses.” Needless to say, over a period of time, mistrust in him was proven in several instances, this individual took advantage of vulnerable sheep and lambs. What did the church learn from this? One individual leader can cause years of harm.

As congregants, mentally and emotionally, our spiritual well-being was harmed by this ministry leader. Especially among young adults, the circle of confidence in the church body was broken.

What can you to do as a servant leader when trust is a challenge in ministry? Without safe spaces, within the ministering body, the harm and hurt will destroy congregants spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Start with building safe spaces. We invite you to check our blog post about strategies to create trusting, safe environments.

The Relationship Between Vulnerability and Effective Leadership

The relationship between vulnerability and effective leadership is backed by case studies. Studies show that vulnerability has a connection to communication and authenticity. According to Mckinsey studies, millennials, in particular, want their leaders to share their human side, including their vulnerabilities. As congregants in ministry, the thoughts are “Can I trust you with this information? Can I be vulnerable and explain my hurt and harm?” In both worlds, background knowledge is part of building trust in relationship. However, remember, opinion(s) is not fact (s).

Not “OK”

As much as we may think we are “ok,” there are circumstances that people face which are so dire, that we know that they are not “OK.” In these circumstances, you may notice changes in behavior, i.e., absences, outbursts, text messages, etc.

Jesus is a primary example of what it means to be in a place of vulnerability and ask for help. For instance, the night before Jesus was ceased in the Garden of Gethsemane, he poured out his emotions to the Father. “Take this cup from me; but yet, not my will but Your will be done,” (paraphrased). In the very next moments, he did not even summon angels, and he could have, to come and help him (Matthew 26:50-53). His willingness to be vulnerable to save us speaks of the level of trust that he had in His Father.

What should leaders do when challenges persist?

Challenges Leaders Face in Embracing Vulnerability

Face it! As a leader, embrace vulnerability as an opportunity for better. Common fears and misconceptions about showing vulnerability is not unusual. In fact, in the natural world, you may hear conversations that speak of finding your “inner compass.” For instance, a leader may rely upon his/her inner compass to guide their responses or actions. This inner compass may lead that person to check in with others or make a self-inventory. How am I doing? What did I learn from the experience(s)? Ultimately, in their leadership journey, there are certain issues and challenges that motivate them.

In ministry leadership, by comparison, you may have misgivings as well. You are not an exception. In fact, you are in good company. As previously stated, Jesus is an example of how vulnerability help in shaping his dependence on the Father. His willingness to be on God’s agenda is the inspiration for our faith.

Self-Reflection

What can we do to analyze the role of vulnerability in our personal leadership? Self-reflect! Here are a few thoughts that I use as part of my self-reflection. in this manner, I encourage myself to use tips to incorporate vulnerability into my leadership style to grow my ministry spiritually. Not necessarily in this order. I choose to:

Identify my list of trustworthy partnerships outside of the ministry
Identify key people who congregants trust and are faithful to the ministry
Identify and engage credible resources to strengthen authentic relationships, i.e., community support groups
Be honest about my challenges and commitment to Godly principles; i.e., integrity, accountability, self-control. Am I honest? Am I accountable and work to grow good fruit (Galatians 5:22-23)?
Daily speak the Word of God
Read scriptures for building emotional support
Prayer consistently with the Word of God in agreement that God wants the best for my ministry, family, connections, and you.

Summative, this is my good ” startup” to incorporate vulnerability into my leadership style as a servant leader. The Holy Spirit is your guide!

Servant Leadership NOW: "Stepping Up Your Leadership Call"

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August 2, 2026

The Challenges of a Servant of God

Lone tree on a grassy hill overlooking rugged mountains and lakes with dramatic clouds

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Quite often my friend Stacey reminds us that “It is not easy, but it is durable.” In this post, I ask you, “Is it durable?”

I believe that we stand in agreement that a Servant of God has challenges. Life is challenging, yes! Still, how durable is life as a Servant of God?

Count it All Good

First of all, the scripture of James 1:2-4 (count it all joy) is a familiar and quoted one among believers. However, I believe the mindset must agree with the spirit in order to do just that. How can I feel joy in the midst of my troubles? Moreover, how can you express joy in the midst of challenges? Emphatically, God is not asking us to do more than we are capable of. In fact, what he wants from us, is trust. Trust him during these times. That can make the situation DURABBLE!

Additionally, having a capable mentoring group or circle of friends, who fear God, will lighten your burdens. That small group of friends will share experiences that give support and relieve much of the stress that otherwise you would endure alone.

Thirdly, look for things that will make you laugh in those times. Laughter is good for the soul. Proverbs 17:33 speaks how good it is to have a spirit of laughter.

Approval

Whose approval are you looking for? In the process of life, we want the approval of others. That is normal. However, be honest and ask, “Whose approval do I really need?” As a Servant of God, his approval matters most!

In serving God, his ways will really surprise you. Because of your transformation, God’s strategies will change how you now handle situations. For instance, before transformation, your heart was hardened. Do you remember how Saul was changed to Apostle Paul? In this instance, you see how transformation in the heart brings Paul to seek God’s approval more than any man. Thus, consider the situation or challenge, and seek God’s wisdom for pleasing Him. Again, that makes it DURABLE!

Control

Finally, we like to be in control. Hence, challenging situations makes us feel out of control and uncomfortable. It is impossible to be in control of everything in your life. A good example of being out of control is that of a fig tree. The fig tree must have certain conditions to grow. It needs sunlight, soil and water. But it can only grow under certain conditions. For instance, the soil must be well-drained. Although it needs water, overwatering will damage the root. It needs the sunlight, but the branches require protection from the sun’s harshness. Thus, the fig tree must rely upon the control of the Creator to flourish and bear fruit. In making of the tree, it is the Creator who knows and understands the hard and dry seasons of the fig tree.

One such writer, Habakkuk, wrote that although the fig tree has no blossoms, and no fruit is on the vines, I will rejoice in my connection to the Lord – my salvation. How can he do must a thing? Habakkuk recognize s that God is always in control. Whether in dry challenging seasons, God has you (Habakkuk 3:17). He knows what it takes to make you grow to meet your challenges.

For more posts, in your spiritual journey, we suggest that you share these:

If you enjoy poetry, one wonderful place about leadership to explore is called “Imperfect Taylor.” where others share.

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June 5, 2026

Wellness and Leadership: Building Strong Teams

Wellness and Leadership build strong teams

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Healthy Leadership

Wellness and leadership work together to build strong teams. We begin this blog post with this thought: A healthy mind produces healthy thoughts. Healthy thoughts produce healthy actions for healthy leadership. On the contrary, an unhealthy mind produces unhealthy thoughts followed by unhealthy actions.

Nebuchadnezzar (in Daniel 2) is an example of a leader who was troubled in the mind by dreams. Daniel 4 records how he lost his mind (Daniel 4:32-33) and ate grass like the ox. In action, his attitude toward those he led was one of animosity and antagonism as it suited him. Evil was his companion in the beginning of his leadership. God will use such leadership for the good of His purpose and people.

The Mindset of Leadership

In the scriptures, there are numerous examples of the mindset of leaders. Attitude is to leadership as hand to glove. Changing your attitude (mindset) toward a situation is powerful. Why? Because attitude influences the mindset of others. For a simple example, think about preparing a family meal. How you approach the situation is telling in the preparation and taste. So, it is when facilitating a project. A relaxing attitude decreased anxiety. The mind is at ease. Blood pressure is lower and it is easier to breathe. Your attitude determines the approach and affects others. Therefore, be willing to check the mind; and change your attitude for healthy leading. A simple thought i.e., “Everything I do today will represent the goodness of God in my life.” That is a way to check your attitude.

Keep your thoughts positive because your thoughts become your words. Keep your behavior positive because your behavior becomes your habits. Keep your habits positive because your habits become your values. Keep your values positive because your values become your destiny. – M. Ghandi

Healthy Leaders Reflect Good Understanding

Healthy leaders reflect understanding about the needs of the team. Biblically, the scripture states in Philippians 4:7-8 NIV,” And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. This type of leader has the focus on the big picture; but takes the time to understand the smaller tasks. This leader gathers necessary information to make an informed decision.

Studies of the mind, such as psychology, form concepts taken from scriptures. Long before the term psychology emerged as a study, people engaged in the understanding of the human soul, mind, and body (refer to Psychology and the Bible, Toccoa Falls College for more about this.). Working as teams is what God formed. Human thoughts perceive (go before) your action(s). God thought and then created. The very act and deeds of God produced the world.

Weighing the consequences of your actions is productive thinking. A healthy leader leads with this type of understanding with the intent to produce the best decision(s).

“No matter how “big” the size of your head, you can only hold one thought at a time, ” – My Paternal Grandmother.

Healthy Leaders Voice

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Philippians 4:8). One biblical example that comes to mind, is the voice of Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses (Exodus 2). Jethro, also known as a “friend of God,” explains why Moses saw him as a “healthy” voice in his life. God will place healthy voices in the lives of leaders. Thus, a leader must adhere and be sensitive for sound voices for a sound mind.

Even in dreams, God sends messages that blesses the wellness of his leaders. Examples include Joseph (husband of Mary), Elisha the Prophet, and Apostle John. And God will do the same today. Your voice is important for healthy leadership in Him. Model 2 Timothy, “Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior (2 Timothy 2:16). Again, I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights; a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people,” (2 Timothy 2:23-24 NLT).

Restraining the Lips

Not only will the healthy leader listen for soundness and avoid foolish talk, but this type of leader seeks and practice the restraining of the tongue (i.e., the lips). James wrote, “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless,” (James 1:26). Ta lking too much is a sign of weakness in leadership. In the science of psychology, a windbag is known as one who is overly self-important; engages in useless talk or empty talk. On the other hand, one who knows how to restrain the lips is a reflection of a wise leader and one of humility. You can be grateful for the Holy Spirit (Psalm 141:3) to rule that untamed organ – the tongue (James 3:2; 7).

Known for Quality

The healthy leader is known for success, even those challenges come. Their success is the result of their qualities. This leader is not perfect but works in excellence. Their mode of conversation is to resolve issues. They speak of problem-solving. More importantly, their conversations are toward possibilities. On the other hand, what irritates them more than most, is the inability of others to see the vision. Consequently, their attitude or mode of operation is to accelerate the tasks, identify the means and move forward.

People who lack this type of enthusiasm, will find it difficult to be a part of the team. It is difficult for them to connect wellness and leadership in building strong teams. Still, the healthy leader’s voice speak to different personalities; but only carry the best resources to finish the tasks, while looking toward the future. Healthy leadership is the product of characteristics i.e., integrity.

We invite you to follow these blogs for more information about wellness and leadership to build strong teams:

For more information about qualities and characteristics, you may wish to read “21 leadership qualities and characteristics of a successful leader” by Elizabeth Perry, ACC.

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March 6, 2026

Leaders Must Avoid Dangerous Reefs in Business

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Leaders must avoid the dangerous reefs. This is to be aware of dangerous reefs because they can shipwreck you! Jude only wrote one chapter scripture, but the lessons in his text are powerful. Let us begin with understanding a little about his analogy of leaders and dangerous physical reefs. Where are your reefs?

Marine Life and Reefs

First, we draw your attention to the physical meaning of reefs. Marine shipwrecks, created by humans, become artificial reefs. The ideal is to allow shipwrecks or wreckage to lie undisturbed on the ocean floor. Of course, this impacts marine life. There are similarities and differences in marine life between shipwrecks, which serve as artificial reefs, and natural reef habitats. Both artificial and natural spaces provide a home for fish, algae, and other living organisms. However, researchers found a difference in the organisms that gather around a shipwreck compared to those in natural spaces. For instance, the production of fish varieties increases around artificial reefs in comparison to natural habitats.

Although the intentional submersion of large objects in oceans has long been a practice of humans, this activity alters the ecosystem of marine life. The result is also a change in ocean composition. For example, chemical changes occur in the ocean’s water. As a result, these submersions alter the natural habitat, even at a distance from the shipwreck.

Exposure to Environmental Risks

Another consideration regarding reefs is the impact on air quality from shipwrecks used as artificial reefs. Even though researchers find some ecological benefits to artificial reefs, there are environmental risks that must not be ignored. In fact, our human lives depend on good air quality. Marine life is important to the air we breathe because oceans release oxygen. Ships consist of materials such as wood and metal. They decompose. Sinking ships can damage the natural habitats of our beautiful system of coral reefs (Shipwrecks As Artificial Reefs) and carry oil pollutants, bacteria, and other contaminants into the water supply. This process thereby influences the breakdown of photosynthesis and air quality.

Dangerous Human Reefs

Spiritually, Jude compares this phenomenon to ministry leadership. He uses this as an analogy to warn church leaders about the impact of human reefs. He warns the leaders about fellowship with humans who are like dangerous reefs (Jude 1:12). In his words, they care only for themselves. As trees in autumn, they do not bear fruit because they do not plant in soil that produces strong roots (Jude 1:13). In fact, these people are grumblers and complainers, and they operate as flatterers to get what they want (verse 16). Moreover, dangerous human reefs divide people. They carry pollutants and contaminate. Therefore, as a leader, the question becomes, “How should a leader respond to dangerous human reefs among you?”

Dealing with Human Reefs

Jude, as a leader, deals with this from a spiritual yet intelligent response. Further in the text, he offers these suggestions for caring for the people that they lead. Leaders:

build each other up
pray in the power of the Holy Spirit
remain faithful
show mercy to those who faith is wavering
rescue others by snatching them from such flames of judgment

Yet, leaders ask, “What does this leadership look like in your natural world?” Successful companies in the business world recognize the value of good leadership traits. Although the terminology differs, the concept is the same for the servant leader. The mindset is scripturally grounded.

In the article “To Be a Leader, Model These 9 Traits” by Forbes Magazine, the view of a servant leader emphasizes spiritual connections. For instance, these leaders are self-aware, accountable, ask powerful questions, generous, and are change agents. Their focus is to serve others. Discern. Check your mindset to ensure that you recognize dangerous human reefs and act within the boundaries of wisdom.

For more like this blog post, we suggest:

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October 22, 2025

Servant In the Courtroom

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

By now, if you follow me, you understand my passion to encourage. Like many, when I was growing up in church, those in leadership positions were pressed to serve. Serve the church and serve others in the community. The definition of a church leader was service. Church members voted for different positions. Authorization came from them. The words, “Enter to worship, Depart to Serve,” were often stressed at the end of each worship service. Decades later, those words were also inscribed on the church bulletin. In ministry, I still meet people today with similar backgrounds from different countries with that definition of servant. The ideal servant leader will meet the need.

Servant Leaders Meet the Need

Apostle, Bishop, Pastor, Elder, Minister – The most important title you will have been “Servant.”

In spite of opinions in the courtroom, facts matter. Consequently, the goal of courtroom proceedings is to serve equal justice. Human justice, of course, is flawed. Because humans are flawed. Although many people do not always recognize it, God’s system is at work every day. Every day, God extends new mercy. And he loves justice. For it is written in Isaiah 61:8: “For I, the LORD, love justice; I hate robbery and iniquity and Psalm 11:7: “The Lord is righteous, he loves justice.”

The Job of a Servant Leader

The job is to serve the needs of others. If you need food and I am able to support the need, and I refuse, then I haven’t served you effectively. Jesus came because we had a need for salvation. It is out of the need to save us, to give salvation, that Jesus gave his service. He spoke about needs by teaching parables (Matthew 25). The hierarchy of needs consists of both physical and spiritual. If we are not serving the NEED(s) of people, we are not on God’s agenda.

What Becomes of the Servant?

There is an appointed time of judgment in God’s court. What did the servant do on earth? The servant saw hunger, sickness, and more. The Lord’s reply was this, “Whenever you saw such, you did something about it (Matthew 25:35-40). In the final judgement, God will NOT ask about earthly titles. Thereupon, there will be order in His court. He will judge each by His merits. In His court, only the title of Servant will matter.

Therefore, one day, God will hold a great court session. Facts matter, not opinion, in His court. God knows all the facts. Each of us will stand before that Great Judge. Now, as a servant today, be reminded of 1 John 5:21, which tells us to keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your heart. For the words you want to hear are, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things. I will make you ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of the Lord, Matthew 25:21.”

Other Related Posts at:

Servant Leadership NOW: "Stepping Up Your Leadership Call"

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July 3, 2025

Safe Spaces: Creating Environments for Youth

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

The time to revisit Safe Spaces for children, youth, and young adults is now. True leaders must be willing to spend time and effort to support this subgroup. Among this generation, some leaders have reasons to choose organizations other than the church. They wish to be heard.

Why Young People Disconnect

Although this survey was taken a few years ago, it is still what I hear today. When they are not heard, this leaves young people open to other religious networks.

Data shows top fie reasons for decline in church attendance of church dropouts

Silent – No More – Clinical Professionals

Clinical professionals offer another view for consideration. First, leaders must listen with open hearts and not criticism. We must have a wish to create positive spaces for this subgroup to develop and grow. Why? Most are in pain. The first protectors of children are supposed to be parents, teachers, older siblings, pastors, and police officers. Unfortunately, these individuals can also be children’s first predators. Establishing tools to build safe spaces for conversations is a great start. Healthy spaces are good for everyone. The cost of inaction is too great.

Networks of Psychological Trauma

Second, we must engage to share insights. We need to determine how to push the development of “Safe Spaces for Children, Youth and Young Adults.” It is important to grow a strong base of caring, insightful leaders. How? Gather information from gifted clinical therapists for insight. These professionals have the knowledge base about networks operating in their field, including information about current, organized religious networks. Not all networks work in the interest of solving problems. Sadly, some networks foster psychological trauma among our most vulnerable populations. Even more shocking, some networks exist to foster religious child maltreatment (RCM).

What is Religious Child Maltreatment ?

When Janet Heimlich began writing her book, Breaking Their Will: Shedding Light on Religious Child Maltreatment, she realized something important. The term religious child maltreatment (RCM) was not among the most popular for online searching. In fact, the subject matter, according to Heimlich, made many uncomfortable. RCM is religious child abuse. Predators of RCM, like other networks, use social media as an online method. They aim to gain access and infiltrate the mindset of the young. As a result, some of our young people are falling into the hands of predators without leaving their homes. Beyond the home, predators also look for places where young people hang out, i.e., with friends, schools, college campuses, recreational centers, shopping malls, etc.

As a norm, children, youth, and young adults take a “leap of faith” in adults without much fear and experience. They follow the religious teachings and steps of their parents. However, the impact of social media on the value system is real. Therefore, it is crucial to include this population in our conversations to help them feel at ease engaging in discussions. We must prioritize knowing more about the topic. Sharing information with them about Religious Child Maltreatment (RCM) is essential for change.

Be Silent No More

Some institutions of faith have open safe havens to discuss sexual abuse and immorality. Some institutions choose to abandon the discussions and just pray about it. On the other hand, some faith-based organizations are part of national organizations for transforming policies that support their theology. Nevertheless, research shows that trauma continues to increase across all areas of social and economic status. For local pastors and ministries, this is a known problem as a related decline in attendance. Subsequently, it gives them unique opportunities to serve people. This service includes addressing values, religious trauma, and faith.

Personal Attachments Make It Harder

According to clinical professionals, personal attachments make it harder for abused people to leave their situations. Some leaders practiced RCM and are defined as religious cult leaders. Well-known examples include Jim Jones and Wilbert Thomas. Why? Their followers’ emotional attachments gave them a sense of protection by their abusers. However, according to clinical professionals, most leaders of RCM are not widely known. What can today’s true leaders offer to victims of RCM? (1) Conversation and definition of RCM. (2) Gives people the true message of what faith and grace is based on the Word and not human theology. (3) No more silence. (4) Remain knowledgable and discerning with materials i.e., The Child’s Song: The Religious Abuse of Children. The late Dr. Donald Capps (Princeton University Seminary) writes about religious abuses in this book,

Workshops of Support

Today, let us continue to make an impact in 2025 and beyond. Remember that you are relevant – not a mistake.

Other suggested articles, read The Next Generation Is Leaving the Faith Earlier Than You Realize. For further study, read “The Cost of Inaction for Young Children Globally by the Institute of Medicine Forum. It highlights the need to do more.

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May 5, 2025