INSTILLING
MISSION IN WORKERS

Topics: Career; Dependence on God; Devotional Life; Example; Godliness; Integrity; Prayer; Righteousness; Service; Spiritual Disciplines; Temptation; Weakness; Work

References: Psalm 25:21; Matthew 6:9–13; Luke 11:1–4; Ephesians 6:18–19; Colossians 4:2

Here’s some advice from Israel Gaither, national commander for the Salvation Army, on how to instill employees with a sense of mission:

•     Begin the day with prayer.

•     Organizations involve humans, and humans sometimes falter. Leaders should pick up those who have fallen but also have the option to fire them.

•     Serving leadership is active leadership, not a mantra.

•     Guard against mission creep. Be courageous to say no.

When asked about the first tip, “Can it be that simple? Can everyone stay out of trouble with a morning prayer?” Gaither responded, “I serve in a world weakened by sin. That’s the context in which I serve, and I have to ask God to protect me—my mind, my thinking, and my behavior. Is that the path to help an organization do what is right? Yeah, I think that’s the way to do it.”

—Del Jones, “Salvation Army’s Chief on a Mission,” USA Today (November 20, 2006)