I've had the priviledge this week of focusing a lot of my time doing what Steven Covey calls "sharpening the saw". For several days this week I've met with people who have spoken truth into my life, listened to our story, and challenged my thinking in some area. Here's what I know about sharpening the saw:
1. It always takes time. As busy as I am sometimes, if I don't stop, not slow down, not take it easy, but STOP what I'm designed to do to be sharpened, I will not be effective at all
2. Sharpening comes with friction. If you've ever seen anyone sharpen a knife you know you have to rub it against a stone to get the edge back. Now I'll tell you, I don't like friction. I don't like conflict. I don't like criticism. But if I want to stay sharp I must welcome it, get close to it.
3. It makes you more effective in fulfilling your purpose and passion. When an axe is sharp. A lumberjack can go through some trees. And that's what he was born to do.
I'm born to lead Jouney Church. There is no higher calling in my life. But if I want to be an effective leader, I'm going to have to welcome the sharpening process.
I have people in my life in different roles that sharpen me. My wife is the Godliest woman I know and she keeps me focused on my greatest ministry-my family. I have friends who are leaders at Journey that help me stay focused on leading our church. I have other church planting friends and pastors who ask me tough questions and sometimes even challenge me on something I'm doing because they want to see Gods best in me and through me and my family and our church.
Do you have anyone who "sharpens your saw"?
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