"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as, in fact, you are doing." I Thessalonians 5:11
This verse emphasizes the importance of mutual encouragement among believers. Encouraging each other is seen as a way to build up and motivate one another. It implies that positive words and actions inspire and uplift individuals, fostering a sense of purpose and determination. Encouragement is presented as a communal responsibility, highlighting the idea that motivation can be strengthened through the supportive words and actions of others.
This is the third in a series of reflections on Dr. Peter Senge's, The Fifth Discipline.
When can you remember being excited about something you were doing? As you mull over this question, you're probably thinking about a hobby or an inspirational trip – not the eight hours you've just spent at the church office.
But let's face it – most of us spend much of our lives in offices. So, shouldn't they, too, be exciting places full of life and passion? And if you represent a church as an employer, don't you want your staff to do their best, not just go through the motions?
Our work excites and engages us when it stretches us and allows us to develop personal and professional competence. This feeling of personal mastery isn't about beating someone at something or measuring up to someone else's standard. It is internal, not external – a deeply personal pursuit of fulfillment. This fulfillment comes when we figure out our purpose and vision and devote ourselves to these.
Of course, once you've discovered your vision, you'll quickly realize that reality does not live up to it. That can be discouraging, but it can also be motivating. The trick is to view things the right way. The gap between where you are and where you want to be can build creative tension. And it is this tension that will propel you to action.
For some churches as employers, promoting personal satisfaction and growth in the workplace can seem irrelevant, sometimes even threatening. How do you even implement it? And how will it help the Church grow and become vital?
There is much evidence that investing in employees is great for business.
Senge cites Japanese ceramics, technology, and electronics giant Kyocera. It began as a start-up and grew into a company with $9 billion in sales. How? By putting the growth of its employees at the center of company policy. A similar thing happened in the United States when a new CEO of Hanover, a property firm, insisted that they prioritize Hanover's staff's well-being. These business lessons can apply to church organizations as well.
One example of a church that experienced rapid growth by prioritizing the well-being of its staff is "Life.church. Life." This multi-site evangelical Christian church, based in the United States, is known for its innovative approach to ministry and emphasis on creating a healthy work environment for its staff.
Life Church was founded in 1996 by Craig Groeschel in Edmond, Oklahoma. From its humble beginnings, the Church grew rapidly by emphasizing caring for its staff members. The leadership recognized that a healthy and motivated staff would lead to a more vibrant and impactful ministry.
To prioritize the well-being of its staff, Life Church implemented several practices and policies. Here are a few examples:
1. Flexible Work Environment: Life Church recognized the importance of work-life balance and offered flexible working hours and remote work options when feasible. This allowed staff members to meet personal obligations while still fulfilling their responsibilities.
2. Comprehensive Benefits: The Church provided comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. They aimed to ensure that their staff members had access to the necessary resources to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
3. Professional Development: Life Church invested in the professional development of its staff, offering opportunities for training, conferences, and workshops. They believed in equipping their employees with the tools and skills necessary to excel in their roles.
4. Supportive Culture: The Church fostered a supportive and encouraging culture. They emphasized teamwork and open communication and created a safe space for staff members to share their ideas, concerns, and feedback.
5. Pastoral Care: Life Church recognizes that ministry can be emotionally and spiritually demanding. It provides pastoral care services and support systems to help staff members navigate challenges and maintain their spiritual well-being.
Through these efforts, Life Church created an environment where staff members felt valued, supported, and motivated to carry out the Church's mission. The positive work environment contributed to the Church's growth, attracting talented individuals passionate about serving in a healthy and thriving organization.
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