Ron Harris

I’m in my late 70s, and I’m still learning and figuring things out. Better late than never.

As a kid, I remember asking my dad about a deep scratch or bruise on his arm. “Where did that come from?” Dad would simply reply, “I don’t know.” I couldn’t believe it! How could you scratch your arm or run into something and not remember the incident? That was beyond my comprehension as a young boy.

I’m beginning to understand. While getting dressed recently, I noticed a couple of scratches on one leg and a bruise on the other. I have no idea where they came from. I flashed back to my time with Dad and understood he was teaching me without lecturing me. Without specific words, Dad said, “It doesn’t matter. It’s not worth worrying about or spending time thinking about.”

I’m finding a lot of applications for that lesson beyond scratches or bruises. There are many things that happen in life that we sometimes spend way too much time thinking about…or obsessing over. We try to find the cause of this little thing or the reason for that little thing. Or we assign some sort of spiritual application to it as a way of explaining it. Flip Wilson was an American comedian famous for saying, “The Devil made me do it.” Pardon the pun, but that was his “flip” answer for why some things happened.

As a leader, you encounter many things each day that could command your attention at home or at your office or ministry. And many of those things won’t matter. Don’t waste valuable time on trivial things that can detract from the important things of your ministry, your work, your family, or your life.

The Apostle Paul often encourages us to focus on the important. After admitting to the Philippian Christ-followers that he didn’t fully comprehend everything, Paul said this:

…but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Philippians 3:13-14 NLT

My translation of that is, “Quit worrying about the little things or the past things. You’re probably not going to figure them all out, anyway. Look forward. See the goal God has set before you…and press on to that. There is a greater reward than figuring out…where that little scratch came from.”

God’s best,

Early in our marriage, my wife Judy would accuse me of purposely hunting for challenging roads. When we were living in another country, I would sometimes see something off in the distance where I wanted to go…and I would just take off heading that way. Even if there wasn’t a good road. Sometimes where there wasn’t any road. To me, it was all about the destination. Seeing something I had never seen before. And most of the time, we were rewarded with something astounding. Has that happened to you?

I had the privilege of getting to know Zig Ziglar, a noted salesman, motivational speaker, and author. And the other day I came across a quote that certainly resonated with me…especially after all the rugged roads I have taken in life. Zig said:

“Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.

The best is yet to come.”

I quickly thought of those many times I headed up mountain roads or across rocky fields and was rewarded with amazing vistas and astounding sights. Of course, not every rough road took us to a great place. There were a lot of U-turns along the way.

Zig Ziglar was talking about more than sightseeing on a vacation. He was teaching life lessons. Reminding us of our Sovereign Lord and how He works in our lives.

Ministry leaders often find themselves on a difficult road. Financial challenges. Personnel issues. Pressure from without and within. It can get rough and seem like we have taken a wrong turn onto a rough road.

Zig Ziglar would often remind people, “There is no elevator to success. You have to take the stairs.”

God’s Word reminds us to persevere even in the midst of trials…or those boulders on our road. The writer of Hebrews gave us this admonition:

For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.

Hebrews 10:36 ESV

Peter wanted his readers to understand that there will be times when patient endurance will be needed.

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.

1 Peter 4:12 NLT

Paul also wanted the early Christians to expect rough roads, trials. The apostle encouraged them not to give up or turn back. And on God’s authority, Paul promised them…

At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

Galatians 6:9 NLT

Are you on a rough road now? Are the trials and challenges tempting you to turn back? That beautiful destination…God’s reward… may be just around the corner. Yes, the best is yet to come.

God’s best,

Leaders have to deal with conflict in their organizations. It is inevitable. Jesus said, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows….” (Matthew 16:33 NLT) James reminds believers, “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” (James 1:2 NLT)

In the middle of conflict, it doesn’t feel like joy. What is your attitude when those troubles come in your ministry or organization? Joy is probably not the first thing on your mind. Most people think their only options are fight or flight and confront the trial head-on. Of course, when that happens, there will be inevitable winners and losers. That doesn’t make for a productive organization or ministry. What if there were another way?

What if you could transform that conflict into something productive for everyone? David Ashcraft of the Global Leadership Network suggests that can happen if we look at conflict differently.

“Conflict isn’t bad; it’s necessary. It’s usually a reaction to something that needs to be fixed, something that is probably holding your team back from moving toward your mission…. we as leaders must put aside both our desire for ease and our desire to be right — and instead choose to lean into conflict.”

Leadership expert John Maxwell has gone so far as to develop a Ten Commandments of Handling Conflict. Here are some of the highlights:

• Love people more than opinions.
• Learn to be flexible.
• Provide an escape hatch for the other person in the conflict.
• Don’t become defensive.
• Welcome the conflict.

That last one is hard. I sure don’t wake up in the morning hoping for a conflict. Usually, it is just the opposite. So, how do we welcome conflict? Maxwell expands on that thought:

“In spite of our best efforts, we will all have conflict with other people, because they’re not just like us. They have different personalities, beliefs, and desires, so there will be disagreements and misunderstandings. Rather than running from conflict, or reacting with horror when it comes up, focus on resolving it together and making it a learning experience. It’s been said that conflict can give you either ulcers or understanding.”

Often, we as leaders must check our attitude. Are we more interested in winning or moving forward as an organization? Are we more focused on our leadership position or on the overall good of the ministry?

Kenneth Cloke, a professional mediator, has written, “Every conflict we face in life is rich with positive and negative potential…. The choice is not up to our opponents, but to us, and our willingness to face and work through them.”

Conflicts will certainly arise. Rather than fight or flight, we should work to transform the conflict into something that honors the Lord and moves us closer to His ministry purpose.

God’s best,

I love pulling one of my old media books from many decades ago to see how the information relates to today’s tools and technology. To be honest, it doesn’t always hold up. Equipment has changed so much, and the way production work is done is dramatically different. Yet, some truths remain. In the opening pages of a classic academic book, Television Production by Alan Wurtzel, the author verbalizes the truth that still holds today.

“In order to communicate effectively in any medium, it is essential to first understand the capabilities and limitations of both the medium and its tools and techniques.”

Wurtzel adds that all of that is a part of the critical process “… to produce programming which will communicate messages and ideas to the viewing audience.”

For those of us in the media realm, we cannot overlook the potential and the limitations that our tools afford us. As new technologies evolve…which seems to happen weekly if not daily…we may need to evaluate those tools again and again.

• What are the limitations?
• Can we get around such limitations?
• What can we do with what we have today?
• How can we stretch our potential?

I’ve always seen the limitations in media work as a challenge. Before TV broadcasting had stereo capabilities, I led our church media teams to use local FM radio stations to carry the stereo audio of the church’s televised musical specials, a simulcast. Voilà. Stereo television! This not only overcame technical limitations, it also provided a unique experience for those who viewed the program.

Working in Christian media gives us an advantage the secular media world does not have. We do what we do to honor and bring glory to our Lord. And He has assured us our imagination is not big enough for what the Lord wants to accomplish through us. That is a promise from Almighty God.

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”

Ephesians 3:20 NLT

Eugene Peterson in The Message, his paraphrase of the Bible, says, “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!”

Alan Wurtzel talked about communicating messages and ideas to the audience. God’s purpose takes that much further. We are not just taking a message or an idea to the audience. We have the privilege of taking God’s most powerful message and sharing it in unique and effective ways with the audience. And it isn’t just to be entertained or enlightened. Our use of today’s media tools is to see God make an eternal difference for all who hear and accept His Son, Jesus, as their Lord.

Yes, know your tools, their limitations, and their potential. And be sure their potential includes all God wants to accomplish through you and what He has put in your hands. Remember, Moses only had a stick, a shepherd’s rod. God did far more with it than anyone ever imagined.

What does the Lord want to do through you?

God’s best,

There is a difference between leading and managing. Peter Drucker, the father of modern management, defined the difference this way: “Managers focus on doing things right, while a leader focuses on doing the right things.” Drucker also made another distinction that leaders should understand: “Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.”

Which one is better, the leader or the manager? Both! The key is knowing your ability and knowing your role. It is rare to find someone who can both lead and manage.

Fred Smith, a leader of many in business and ministry, once gave examples of U.S. presidents who were either a good leader or a good manager. Then Smith explained:

“Even if a leader is not strong in administration, he/she must recognize the crucial value of these skills. Bringing top-notch administrative skills to the team is critical, whether it is leading a country or an organization.”

Our friend Steve Gutzler identified some pillars of effective leadership. Here are some of the key pillars he listed:

• A sense of calling
• Visionary thinking
• Personal drive and energy
• Active listening

Fred Smith’s daughter, Brenda, keeps Fred’s legacy and his wisdom alive through the “Breakfast with Fred” website and blogs. She poses three questions for leaders to consider as they develop their leadership skills:

1. Am I more gifted in leadership or management?
2. How am I developing my skills and contributing to my organization?
3. Who could I help with the distinction between leadership and management?

The writer of Hebrews instructed his readers to consider those who had led them and seek to live according to their lives.

Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith. Hebrews 13:7 NLT

Fred Smith concluded his thought by saying, “A successful organization has leadership and management. You lead people, but you manage work.”

As we launch out into a new year, it is good to know how the Lord has gifted you. And to understand how you can best lead your organization, ministry, or your family in God’s ways to accomplish the Lord’s purpose.

God’s best,

No better time to take stock in life than at the close of one year and the launch of another. It’s an excellent time to reflect on past blessings (or challenges) and future hopes and dreams. That’s true if you are 29 or 79. Believe me, I know!

Mike Huckabee is a well-known figure in America. Having run for President twice, Mike has gained notoriety for his wit and insight. I have had the joy of knowing Mike for over 40 years and have watched his amazing influence. From media professional to seminary student, pastor to state governor, and candidate for President of the United States, he has hosted national radio and television programs. All the while, I have seen the same foundation and faith that was instilled in his life at an early age.

A few years ago, Mike and I were together at a ministry dinner, and I was reminded of how the Lord is using him to influence and impact lives. One of his books is titled Rare, Medium, or Done Well. In it, he reflects on how our past and present decisions and choices shape our lives for today and tomorrow. As a result, we influence others—for good or bad.

Huckabee points this out in a strong way in his book:

“Even though we don’t choose how we start life or how we end it, we most certainly choose how we live it.”

“The real legacy of life cannot be calculated by an army of accountants. The value of one’s life is seen in the character of those whose lives were touched, whether children, extended family members, or even strangers who benefited in some way from a person’s influence.”

George Herbert Walker Bush was the 41st President of the United States, serving one term from 1989 to 1993. He was defeated for a second term. But his influence was the result of the choices he made early in life to love people, serve his country, live a life of deep faith, and lead with both strength and compassion. At the same time, George H. W. Bush poured out unconditional love on his wife and children. His son, George W. Bush, who followed him a few years later as President, eulogized his dad at his funeral service and, through tears, concluded with these words to his father:

“We’re going to miss you. Your decency, sincerity, and kind soul will stay with us forever. So, through our tears, let us know the blessings of knowing and loving you, a great and noble man, the best father a son or daughter can have.”

Legacy. A life done well.

What are the foundational principles of your life? What are the choices you are making that will build up others and help them along life’s pathway? How are you modeling the principles you proclaim in ministry and life?

Today is a good day to reflect on past blessings…and even past mistakes. Yes, mistakes. Failures and mistakes are part of life. But they don’t have to define us. There is no leader in all of God’s Word who lived a perfect life…except Jesus. Yet, with the power of God’s Spirit, leaders like David, Moses, Paul, Peter, and many others left a legacy of influence that impacts our lives today. What impact will your life have?

In addition to leaving a powerful and positive legacy, also long for those words from our Heavenly Father…

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Happy New Year from your MEDIA Alliance family.

God’s best,

You probably have one of those Christmas cards with the sweet scene of Mary on a donkey and Joseph by her side, with the Christmas star shining down brightly as they walk to Bethlehem. It’s a pretty scene.

My mind, though, quickly returns to the reality of those days. An oppressive government forced people to go to their hometowns to be counted so they could be taxed. Mary and Joseph had to trek the ninety miles from Nazareth to the city of David, Bethlehem. Mary was pregnant and rode that donkey for almost a week.

Now, I’ve ridden a donkey a time or two. It was not a pleasant experience. I can’t imagine what Mary was going through on that journey.

I wonder…did Joseph ponder about all that was happening in his life? His betrothed carrying a child that wasn’t his. Now, having to travel with her all that way. I wonder…did Mary think of the hardship she was enduring and contrast it with her beautiful praise a few months before?

Oh, how my soul praises the Lord.
How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!
For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,
and from now on all generations will call me blessed.

Luke 1:46-48 NLT

Then, finally arriving in Bethlehem, to find all the rooms were taken, and the most important birth in all of history relegated to a smelly animal cave as the birthplace of God’s son. It was probably not what Joseph and Mary had expected.

It is not unusual for our high expectations to be dramatically changed and for roadblocks and hardships to replace our vision of how things should be. Does that mean we are off track spiritually? Does it mean we are out of God’s will?

Joni Eareckson Tada, whose life took a dramatic turn when at age seventeen she broke her neck in a diving accident, certainly faced overwhelming challenges. She has lived for almost sixty years as a quadriplegic. Out of God’s will?

Joni points to Mary and Joseph as illustrations that hardships don’t necessarily mean we have strayed from God’s will for our lives. These two were absolutely in God’s will, part of the fulfillment of prophecy for the birth of our Savior, Jesus. Yet they faced challenge after challenge.

The Lord Himself explained such hardships in the Christian life.

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.

John 16:33 NLT

These holiday times can be especially difficult. Our expectations for family gatherings may not go as we had hoped, and we may experience multiple disappointments. Hardships and challenges can take many forms and be catastrophic. Jesus, whose life was filled with trouble from the earliest days, tells us to take heart and be encouraged. He has overcome the world.

And that is, indeed, Good News.

From all of us at MEDIA Alliance International, Merry Christmas. May the Lord Jesus bring you hope and joy as you put your trust in Him.

For Jesus is…God’s best,

I got to thinking about my heritage the other day. Like we often do, my brother and sister and our spouses gathered together for fellowship, food, and fun stories of our past…our heritage. We call ourselves the Super Six, primarily because of that heritage. Part of the evidence is faithfulness in marriage. We pointed out to our waiter when we dined together recently that among our three couples are 167 years of faithful marriage to our original spouses. Most are amazed. There aren’t too many examples like that. That was part of what we learned from our parents and grandparents. Our folks and ancestors beyond them left quite a legacy of faith and faithfulness. Not perfect…but they sought to please God.

What is a heritage? Someone explained it this way:

Heritage is a person’s unique, inherited sense of family identity: the values, traditions, culture, and artifacts handed down by previous generations.

We are a product of those who have come before us. I see that in our family. My parents were both musical. And we kids were given lots of opportunities to develop in that area of life. Mom and Dad both loved the Lord and were faithful to serve Him through the church. All three of us children have been active in church ministry in various ways. It’s part of our heritage.

Dr. Henry Blackaby said a godly heritage is a gift from the Lord.

“As Christians, we ought never to overlook our heritage. An awareness of our Christian heritage helps us to understand our identity and gives us a sense of where God is leading us.”

It doesn’t take much reading of the Bible to see that not every saint in God’s service had a sterling heritage. I’m sure if I dug back into our ancestors, I would find some bad folks. But somewhere along the way, there was a change. Someone decided to follow the Lord’s ways rather than simply repeat their parents’ lifestyles or values. Someone changed the heritage of those who would follow after them by going God’s way rather than man’s.

Blackaby talked about the value of that heritage…and the Lord’s purpose for us because of His gift.

“Do you see the full picture of God’s redemptive work? God’s plan involves you, just as it has included each Christian throughout the centuries. God wants you to participate in His continuing work to redeem a lost world. Your obedience today will provide a legacy of faithfulness to the generations that follow.”

God’s Word talks of the importance of recognizing our foundation in life. Isaiah passed that godly wisdom on to the people of his generation.

Listen to me, all who hope for deliverance—
all who seek the Lord!
Consider the rock from which you were cut,
the quarry from which you were mined.

Isaiah 51:1 NLT

So… what if you don’t have a godly heritage? What if those who came before you in your family did not live lives pleasing to the Lord? You can be the one who changes that for all who follow…your children and others who see your life. You can redeem the past and present a God-honoring heritage for those who follow you.

I’m reminded of the words of that Steve Green song.

“Let all who come behind us find us faithful.”

God’s best,

If you have been in leadership for very long, you have come across such people. In West Texas, they refer to them as. “aginners.” They are the ones who are seemingly against almost everything. They may do what needs to be done, but they don’t seem to have much joy. If you are not careful, people like this can derail the job if we as leaders don’t handle them with love and understanding. By the way, people like this are nothing new. You find folks in the Bible who are part of this group.

As I read through the Bible each year, I try to read all the verses, including the ones of genealogy and the lists of names of people. While it sometimes feels tedious, I am often rewarded with interesting passages.

Recently, I have been reading Nehemiah and his account of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. There is so much to learn about leadership from this Old Testament book. The people in Jerusalem worked on the wall, often right in front of their homes and often in groups. As Nehemiah was listing the workers, he said this about one group:

Next were the people from Tekoa, though their leaders refused to work with the construction supervisors.

Nehemiah 3:5 NLT

I don’t know what the problem was with the leaders from Tekoa, but there was something between them and those Nehemiah had chosen to be supervisors. They just didn’t see eye to eye.

Have you run across folks like that in your organization? John Maxwell has much to say about leading difficult people. Here are some of his suggestions:

• Find the one percent you agree on and give it one hundred percent of your effort.
• Give others the benefit of the doubt.
• Learn to be flexible.
• Check your own attitudes.
• Don’t overreact.
• Welcome the conflict.

Despite our best efforts, we will all have conflict with other people, because they’re not just like us. They have different personalities, beliefs, and desires, so there will be disagreements and misunderstandings.

In the end, these people from Tekoa still did the work of rebuilding the wall in Jerusalem. Later in the same chapter, we read that these folks still helped accomplish the critical task before them.

Then came the people of Tekoa, who repaired another section across from the great projecting tower and over to the wall of Ophel.

Nehemiah 3:27 NLT

Yes, we may encounter folks who grumble and complain. But when the cause is right, and the overall vision and importance are shared, even these people will do the right thing.

Challenging? Yes. But God’s eternal work is worth going the extra mile as a leader and keeping your people on task for the glory of the Lord and for accomplishing His purpose.

God’s best,