The Bear Trap Called Men Pleasing

Bear trap
Don't get caught in the bear trap of men pleasing. (iStock photo )

The problem with being a man-pleaser is the work is never done.

In the Sermon on the Plain Luke reminds us:

"Blessed are you when men hate you and when they separate you from their company and insult you" (Luke 6:22).

There are few leaders who haven't experienced the wrath of man over decisions made for the good of the organization. While leaders do not seek to be popular, it's probably correct to think that leaders don't relish being hated.

Some of the hardest times in my career were related to the hiring of friends or their spouses or children. I didn't make the hire on the basis of friendship, but I learned it was a sure way to end a fake friendship. I was a good guy and hero when I made the hire. Of course, when the end of employment came, I was a bad guy and relationships were broken.

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Obviously, working to please men is a matter of the flesh. When I care about what the world thinks about a decision, I've probably reduced my leadership influence. Decisions are made for the good of the team and under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

Leaders have an audience of one.

I pray that every decision I make is "as unto the Lord." I pray for God to search my heart and reveal any untoward motives. I pray that every decision I make today is inspired by the Holy Spirit.

"For am I now seeking the approval of men or of God? Or am I trying to please men? For if I were still trying to please men, I would not be the servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:10).

 


 

NOODLING

Here's something I'm trying or thinking about today ...

FACET – This new app delivers bite-sized clips from around the world each day. It shows everything from tourist spots to fun restaurants. You can clip and save clips or add your own favorites.

Great reminder of places you've visited or mission trips to come.

 


 

Platform Tip No. 18

Don't shy away from new platforms simply because you don't understand them.

SNAPCHAT is a very misunderstood app. Yet, the platform has evolved into a powerful storytelling platform. The app introduced "live stories" in 2014, and the new feature has quickly become one of the most used features of SNAPCHAT. Major brands have discovered the new space and are paying as much as $400,000 for advertising sponsorships.

What story can you be telling on SNAPCHAT?

 


 

Do you want to learn more about developing your personal platform?

Send for my free series of lessons titled, "The Fundamentals of Creating, Curating and Developing Content for Multiple Platforms." Send your request to: platform@ministrytodaymag.com.

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Dr. Steve Greene is the publisher and executive vice president of the media group at Charisma Media and executive producer of the Charisma Podcast Network. His book, Love Leads: The Spiritual Connection Between Your Relationships and Productivity, is now available.

Leaders, Dr. Greene wants to help you understand the spiritual connection between relationships and productivity. Read his new blog, here.

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Dr. Steve Greene is now sharing stories, teachings, and conversations with guests who lead with love on Love Leads, a new podcast. Listen now.



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