Core Values: The ideals and values we hold that are non-negotiable, that serve as filters for all of our efforts to accomplish our mission. (My working definition.)
The story of Jehu in 2 Kings 10 came in front of me recently, and reading it again, several things really struck me.
Jehu found Jehonadab coming to meet him. He greeted him and then asked, “Is your heart one with mine?
Unity. We can’t accomplish the mission God has given us (helping people find, follow and be- like Jesus) if there is division in the ranks. Without unity, you will be thrown back two steps for every one you think you’ve made.
Team. "It is," Jehonadab replied. Jehu said, “If it is, give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand, and Jehu pulled him up into the chariot with him.
There are always two parts to a team. We must be willing to take the hand of those we’re running with and to offer a hand as well.
A true team that owns the mission and vision of your church will not play “turf wars.” If they do, you aren’t casting the vision well enough in the context of how each part is vital to accomplishing the whole.
Passion. Then he said, “Come with me and see my zeal for the Lord!”
As a key leader, it’s vital you own the entire vision and spread that ownership like a flame among others. We have to live it every day!
Our passion is our fire. It may be larger on some days than others, but it must always be burning. You can have the greatest vision and the greatest team, but without passion the vision will die a quick death.
Are these values a part of what your church truly believes and practices? It doesn’t matter how you state them, but if these values aren’t practiced, your church will suffer harm from the inside out.
Artie Davis is the pastor at Cornerstone Community Church in Orangeburg, S.C. He heads the Comb Network and the Sticks Conference. He speaks and writes about leadership, ministry, church planting and cultural diversity in the church. You can find his blog at ArtieDavis.com or catch him on Twitter @artiedavis.
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