The world is and has always been a scary place. Our modern world feels scarier because we’re subjected to more information. The combination of social media and the 24-hour news cycle provides instant access to even the most mundane current events. The only limitations we have for knowledge are those we place on ourselves. But with the knowledge of everything that’s going on around us comes the fear of how we will be impacted – both personally and professionally. Do we trust in the face of fear?
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.
– Psalms 56:3
The Bible tells us to trust in God always, and specifically when we’re afraid. As leaders, we face fears daily, from the external fears of the world around us to the internal angst of ensuring team and organizational success.
As we trust in God, our teams, employees, and organizations trust in us … and God. Not to confuse the two, leaders are not God. Rather, leaders have been given the responsibility for those they lead – and that can lead to fear. Fear can be crippling. It can paralyze its victims to the point of inactivity, exhaustion, or death. But leaders shouldn’t succumb to fear.
Fear also provides opportunity. Opportunity to trust in the Lord in the face of fear. Opportunity to be an example for everyone around us. Opportunity to rise to the challenge and meet the fear head-on. Opportunity to acknowledge that God is in control and knows infinitely more about what’s best for us than we ever could.
In many instances, leaders are in a position to do something about the fear their followers are experiencing. It’s during these times that the importance of Biblical Leadership is most important, and the understanding that God provides security for all of his people is paramount. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
We should offer these teachings to our teams in moments of doubt and fear. Trust. Do not fear. He is with us. No matter what we’re going through, He will uphold us with His righteous hand. Trust in the face of fear is a quintessential ‘easier said than done’ statement. When we feel the weight of the world crumbling around us, do we answer that challenge with trust? Or do we rely on our own understanding? Those we lead are depending on us to make the right choice and to set the example.
Selecting new leadership for your organization requires a lot of trust. And it can be scary. Finding, vetting, and securing the right leaders for your organization can be a daunting task, and it’s vital to secure the right leaders at all levels of the organization. You have to trust that the people you’re hiring to lead your organization are the right fit for your organization’s future.
FaithSearch Partners has 30+ years of proven experience in faith-based executive search. If you’re looking for differential leaders throughout your organization that can have a positive impact on your people and community, FaithSearch excels in securing leaders for nonprofit, academic, and athletic organizations.