Recently, I heard of changes being made in Women’s Ministry for a church I am familiar with. That can be a hard thing for those left behind and both women involved. So let’s talk about transition that works.
This change is exciting for the new leader, but could possibly be bittersweet for the leader moving out of the position. And I think this is true for any transition of leadership. Transition is the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another. It is change, and change can be difficult.
For the one coming into the position, having those in the ministry with the right attitude and perspective can help make it. Those who prayerfully consider what is best for those who will benefit from the ministry bring God’s perspective, helping make a transition that works.
The outgoing leader may not have been able to accomplish all she desired to do before her position ended, but God may provide a leader to follow who will complete the work He intended to be done.
King David’s example
Such was the case with King David when he wanted to build the temple for God. But God told him that was not his job. The project was to be completed by the next king – David’s son Solomon. Therefore David set out to train his son, this next leader, in the way to proceed and complete the task.
“David said, ‘My son Solomon is young and inexperienced, and the house that is to be built for the Lord must be exceedingly great and famous and glorious in all the lands. Therefore, I must make provision for it.’ So David made lavish preparations for it before his death. Then he summoned his son Solomon and instructed him to build a house for the Lord God of Israel.” 1 Chronicles 22:5-6 HCSB
This is an example of an outgoing leader preparing the incoming leader for completing God’s assignment for the ministry.
But, there may be occasions when transition causes hurt feelings, lack of cooperation and grumblings from those in the ministry. These actions and emotions are detrimental, not only to the new leader, but to the ministry in general.
There are ways you, as a ministry participant, can help make it a transition that works in both situations.
For the one transitioning out:
- Be Sensitive. The outgoing leader may be smiling on the outside, but somewhat sad on the inside. She may feel happy for the change, but we all know that letting go is bittersweet.
- Be Encouraging. When God closes a door, He opens a window of opportunity in another direction. Encourage your outgoing leader in what God has in store for her in the days ahead. She may not know what it is at the moment, but God always has a plan.
- Be There. Often the group forgets the outgoing leader as time goes by and new leader rises to the challenge. Reach out to the old while pressing on with the new. Honor them both.
For the one transitioning in:
- Be Supportive. You may have heard it said that it is lonely at the top. That can certainly be true. When you are in a leadership position, others may respect and admire you. But your wisdom and position can also intimidate them. So, be a friend by giving support to your leaders through prayer. Be a servant, giving of yourself to help them be the leaders God has chosen them to be.
- Be Active. A leader cannot do everything in directing a successful ministry by herself. She needs you to participate in a supportive role. God gave each of us spiritual gifts. They work together for the purpose of building up the church. Even with the same gifts God uses us in different ways. Your new leader needs your gifts at work in the ministry. Don’t sit on the sidelines letting see her fail.
- Be Wise. In order to be supportive and active, you must operate in the wisdom of God. He is the one who directs our steps in the way we should go. Ask Him how He would have you serve, and be supportive of your new leader. More than likely, He will direct you to do so in a way that utilizes your gifts in the most effective way.
Whether you are an outgoing leader, incoming leader or a ministry participant, you all have a role in creating a transition that works. With each one doing their part, God will be glorified, you will be uplifted and the ministry will thrive.
