“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples…” (Matthew 28:18-19a NIV)
As another preacher and me were discussing the major topic of making disciples, among our sub-topics was about determining when to use our point guard mentality and when, in discipling and pastoring others, when do we allow the one who is being discipled, after being equipped or coached, make the decision to act accordingly in agreement with the word. We agreed it is a hard decision at times, and Spirit led discernment was required because we are concerned with impacting the disciples’ actions in such a way that it produced the right outcome. We agree that we have to read the situation, and prayerfully avoid being overpowering in our approach.
We talked about the delegation of duties and the difference between delegation and empowerment. We talked about Jethro advising Moses about letting go of some of the work, and we had a discussion about the Apostles assigning some of the work they were doing to others so that they could devote themselves to prayer and God’s word. At some point in our talk, we conversed about micro-managing, taking charge out of compulsion. Our conclusion: Some time we coach and other times we must adopt that point guard mentality. This definitely impacted me as it related to developing others. And to be on guard about taking over or acting like I am in charge of even the smallest aspect of ministry at times. I believe our talk was helpful and benefitted both of us.
However, the fact that sometimes we definitely, as persons who assume leadership roles, whether in the church, at work, or in the home, or in discipling new disciples, we need to use the point guard mentality, was reinforced as I watched a recent WNBA playoff game. You may be familiar with what I am about to share. The favored team was in control of the game. However, that did not keep the point guard from having a sense of urgency or to prevent her from directing her teammates emphatically during a timeout. On the floor, using the point guard mentality was expected, part of her role. Usually, when you come to the bench, the coach takes over and draws plays, as well as encouraging others. It is usually the coach that is very animated and can be heard bellowing out instructions. Well, at that particular timeout, the hall of fame coach steeped back, and the point guard stepped up as she sat on the sideline, grabbed the clipboard, drew out some plays or perhaps drew attention to ways to employ a defensive or offensive strategy that was not being done on the floor. Moving her head, staring at each player in the huddle, the point guard made her point. The coach, as I said, a hall of famer herself, allowed the point guard to take over. The team easily adapted and won the game. Victory was achieved.
I guess my point is that we have been well coached by “The Coach” above. At times, He expects us to use the point guard mentality to ensure daily victories or to make sure things get done. However, if it is not an urgent matter, we, as leaders and role model in our church, on our jobs, or at home, we have to discern when delegating is the best way to achieve, patiently, development and secure “wins. This meditation may just be for me, but as leaders, we all have to avoid becoming micro-managers, avoid taking over at times, and let those being discipled learn by doing. You know the saying, “To do is to learn.”
Think about all that I have written and see it as applicable since we are all involved in discipleship and we each have key interactions with others, perhaps new converts, who are looking at us as examples. My oldest brother’s favorite scripture is the one that says, “Iron sharpens iron.” When necessary, let’s use the point guard mentality in a good way, applying it when necessary and at other times, let’s allow others to make decision, design the plans or “the plays,” and develop the best ways to enhance assignments. Have a great Sunday.
Oh, by the way, “The Coach” will be equipping you through His specific, sent word today. Point guards in all aspects of life need training on an ongoing basis too. He that has ears, let him or her hear. Lead with love! Be blessed!
“Love endures with patience and serenity, love is kind and thoughtful, and is not jealous or envious; love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant. It is not rude; it is not self-seeking; it is not provoked [nor overly sensitive and easily angered]; it does not take into account a wrong endured. It does not rejoice at injustice but rejoices with the truth [when right and truth prevail]. Love bears all things [regardless of what comes], believes all things [looking for the best in each one], hopes all things [remaining steadfast during difficult times], endures all things [without weakening]. Love never fails [it never fades nor ends] … (I Corinthians 13:4-8a The Amplified Bible)
Mark L. King