12 Relationship Principles Every Church Leader Needs

With more than 40 years in leadership, and as a husband, dad and grandfather, I’ve learned that it’s truly all about people.

The most meaningful and transformative moments in life are bound in relationships. These moments become treasured memories that bring joy to your soul.

The great value of relationships along with the intentional care and effort required may seem obvious. Yet when under pressure, whether personal or professional, it’s not easy to practice this on a consistent basis.

It doesn’t matter how smart you are, how gifted you are, or how much you know about vision and strategy. If you don’t know how to connect with and get along with people, you won’t make it far as a leader.

If you don’t invest in friendships, you may end up traveling through life alone. The encouraging truth is that great relationships are not difficult, but they require time, love and the willingness to put others first.

We’ve all made our fair share of relational mistakes, and no doubt you are grateful like I am, for the people who have been kind and patient. I appreciate those who gave me a chance and continue to extend grace.

• When we learn to treat people like we want to be treated, it’s amazing how much better life becomes.
• When we put others first, life has a way of giving back in wonderfully positive ways. That’s not the motivation, but it is the blessing.

John Maxwell has been a cherished friend and mentor for nearly 45 years. I’m so grateful for his love, belief, and investment in me. He has taught me so much about relationships over the years; I could fill a book. But for now, I’ll share just twelve of my favorite principles with you.

(I previously published this article with 10 principles, but I keep learning! So I changed the intro, updated the content and added 2 principles!)

The twelve principles are simple to understand. However, they are challenging to practice on a consistent basis.

This post is a great resource for you personally and to use with: 

• Your Staff, (individually and as a group)
• Your Small Group
• Your Family and Friends

Ask two questions and talk about it.

1. Which ones are you strongest at?
2. Which ones need attention?