Cultivating a crisis-ready mindset
As Christian leaders, what are we to consider regarding our mindset, especially in times of crisis?
Paul reminds us that we have “the mind of Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16b). Through the words of Scripture, the Holy Spirit reveals to us the very thoughts of the mind of our Lord (see 1 Cor. 2:13).
Paul was so confident in his understanding of those thoughts that he would later write “we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor. 10:5b).
So, what was the mindset of the One to whom we hold our thoughts accountable? There are many verses we could look to, but for now, let’s consider the following from Jesus Himself: “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner” (John 5:19); and, “I can do nothing on My own initiative … because I do not seek my own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (v. 30).
Our Lord was so totally committed in His mindset that even though in one instance He would be spiritually grieved to the point of death, He would still say, “yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt” (Matt. 26:38-39).
How often, in our role as leaders, are we conscious enough of what we are saying or doing as a matter of “His will” and not ours alone?
That is a tough question, but is it not indicative of the desire for a right mindset? Jesus very succinctly said “I do not seek my own glory” (John 8:50a). Are we checking ourselves in this area from time to time (see 2 Cor. 13:5)? Muse on that mindset for a moment.
The kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom. The moment we became followers of Christ we were transferred into that kingdom, into a spiritual oneness with the Lord. John wrote that we evidence a constancy of that oneness as we endeavor to walk in the same manner that Jesus walked (see 1 John 2:6).
Should we not be endeavoring to think as Jesus thought as well? Indeed, it is His mindset during this crisis that can make all the difference, no matter what the outcome.
 | Maurie Daigneau is a retired business owner/entrepreneur and author of the newly-published book The Gospel You've Never Heard: An Understanding That Will Change Your Life. He has been in a personal relationship with the Lord for more than 50 years, and has committed the balance of his days to sharing the lessons he has learned from the only One any of us is to call “Teacher.” Maurie and his wife, Susie, raised five children of their own and are now the proud grandparents of 13. Learn More » |
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