Where does your Limp Lead You?

I have an attraction to leadership books which describe real leaders, rather than those with a polished, corporate facade. I fully acknowledge we can learn from books touting secrets and methods, but I find much more encouragement in those which help me lead in and through my weaknesses.

An all time favorite of mine is [amazon_link id=”B006412NBI” target=”_blank” ]Leading with a Limp[/amazon_link] by Dan Allender, which I have spoken about multiple times on this site.

A new addition to these ranks is a book I am currently reading. [amazon_link id=”B01CXE9L64″ target=”_blank” ]The Way of the Dragon, the Way of the Lamb[/amazon_link] by Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel is study of leadership in weakness.

Coupled with their musings, they interview multiple humble giants of the faith. The authors spent time with J.I. Packer of [amazon_link id=”B006NZ66RC” target=”_blank” ]Knowing God[/amazon_link] fame, Eugene Peterson who paraphrased[amazon_link id=”B00IV3836G” target=”_blank” ] the Message[/amazon_link], and several others. The heroes share many of their observations on the North American church, which has been largely influenced by power, prestige, platform and personality.

A simple line in the conversation with James Houston, the founder of Regent University in Vancouver, riveted me.

 “Where you limp is where you are directed.”

He was referring to the trend to only focus on our strengths. He said, “If you are majoring in your strengths, how can you ever live without a mask. You are always concealing things you don’t want people to see.”

Houston related stories of how he helps guide people in their ministry choices, pointing them towards areas which correspond to their Achilles heal.

As I considered this, it resonated with my life.

I have a life message of the grace of God. It is not coming from an area of strength, but one of constant surrender; the battle to walk in security, rather than striving or achievement. I often tell those I teach that I do not tire of this message because my soul is desperate for it.

I thought of my wife and her life message of relationships. Her insight into these issues came from and experience in a cultish, controlling church and spiritual abuse from leadership. She has seen tremendous brokeness in human relationships and is passionate to share God’s truth in these areas.

Don’t get me wrong. I am still a fan of Strength Finders and walking in your God-given giftings.

But I found Houston’s words to carry profound simplicity.

What do you love and where do you desire to make an impact?

It very well could be related to your greatest area of need.

I highly recommend this book.

These dear saints have traveled the way of power and prestige, only to learn true greatness in the kingdom comes through trust, dependence, and vulnerability.

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT)

Photo credit: AdamCohn Cowboy Walking With Cane via photopin (license)