In leadership, we often agonize over persuading others to buy into our vision, what we see as the future of our ministry and our organization. We share what we see, hoping others will grasp it like we do and that they will desire to be a part of this great vision. We may be…to use an old saying… putting the cart before the horse.

John Maxwell’s book The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership reminds us that people don’t often buy into the vision without first buying into the leader. If you are a ministry leader, YOU are the message. A board chairman friend has often told me, “People aren’t giving to a cause because of the vision, they are giving because of the leader.”

Our advertising world understands that. This is why athletic shoe companies like Nike use well-known athletes to promote their products. It is why we often see actors pitching everything from spray paint to retirement funds. Did these people suddenly become experts in these products? Probably not. But because the companies know that people like the athlete or the actor, they will be more open to what they are selling.

What does that say to us as ministry leaders? Maxwell says this:

“Every message that people receive is filtered through the messenger who delivers it. If you consider the messenger to be credible, then you believe the message has value.”

It is not that people automatically buy into your vision because they like you, but it is hard for them to accept what you are presenting if they don’t have confidence in you. You are the message to them. But how do you build credibility with those with whom you share the vision, whether it is your staff or supporters? Here are some of John Maxwell’s suggestions:

  • Develop a good relationship with others.
  • Be honest and authentic and develop trust.
  • Hold yourself to high standards and set a good example.
  • Give your team the tools to do their job better.
  • Help your staff achieve their personal goals.
  • Develop them as leaders.

By the way, all this takes time. Leaders have to learn to be patient, even when they feel the vision is a God-given one. Most of us cannot accomplish God’s vision without having others join with us…and that means these others, whether your staff or your supporters, have to believe in you. Take time to build credibility and integrity, and you will see God’s vision come about.

The prophet Habakkuk was waiting for a message, a vision, from the Lord. When it came, God let Habakkuk know it wouldn’t come about instantly.

This vision is for a future time.
It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled.
If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently,
for it will surely take place.
It will not be delayed.

Habakkuk 2:3 NLT

If God has given you a vision for your ministry or organization, something that will further His kingdom, do all you can to be a worthy messenger of God’s vision… and patiently work to build the credibility needed for others to see that vision through you.

God’s best,